We met up with Poppy's sister recently for a walk - interesting because they are also thinking of breeding. In fact, they took her to be mated, but it was unsuccessful - although she was very keen; stood for the dog and flagged her tail, when he actually tried to penetrate her she yelped in pain. They tried again a day later, with the same result. A subsequent vet examination showed a ring of skin inside her vulva, like a hymen, which would need to be surgically removed for successful mating. Has anyone ever heard of this before?
Oh poor girl , no Karen, never heard of this . I know that some bitches do cry out at the first mating or even refuse at the last minute, but never heard of this . Hoping surgery will be successful for her x
Thats awful, poor thing. When we took Jet to the stud, she let out a yelp at one stage but then that was it. Hope all goes well for her and the surgery is a success.
An experienced stud dog owner will often check a maiden bitch for strictures before allowing the dog to penetrate her. One of the reasons it is such a good idea for people to get some experience before 'diving in' so to speak with dog breeding
I think I'll ask the vet to take a look next time I take Poppy in - not sure if this is an inherited trait. I am definitely looking at more experienced stud dogs and owners now. For one thing, if the stud dog has fathered a few litters then you know he's not firing blanks, so to speak. And having an experienced stud dog owner could be very helpful - I'd never have known that about the strictures! Both of the studs I am looking at belong to families who have also have breeding bitches. We are going to see one tomorrow!
well, I'm not an expert but I wouldn't do that if she isn't in season - she might find that upsetting - it's usual to check when they come in to mate, as they are happy to be 'inspected' when they are ready to stand for the dog. Not sure how much he will be able to tell outside of her season in any case...
I think that's very wise. And experienced stud dog owner will make sure that everything goes smoothly and will often give you masses of support with pregnancy and whelping issues.
Thanks very much for the advice Pippa, very helpful, and Poppy will come into season one more time before we want to mate her, so I'll check with the vet at that time.
