When it comes to breeding dogs, I’m sure you’ve come across bizarre and adorable mixes! I’ve seen a cross of a Chihuahua and Huskies, or basically smaller dogs with way bigger breeds. As adorable as it is to see, it begs you to ask, “Can a big dog breed with a small dog?”
I mean, there are so many questions about the mounting and pregnancy process, and if it’s actually safe to do. Well, while we can see that cross-breeding IS possible, there are things to look into so you can ensure that the entire process is safe. So if you’re wondering about the breeding and mating process of smaller and bigger dog breeds, read on!
Can a Big Dog Breed With a Small Dog?
If you want the short answer, then YES, a bigger dog can breed with a smaller one and vice versa. However, there are different factors to look into as you plan to breed these two dog sizes. This is to ensure that both dogs have a comfortable time as they breed down to labor and delivery.
The Dogs’ Ages
It’s obvious to know that you shouldn’t mate two very young dogs. While the female heat cycle begins when they hit six months old, it doesn’t mean they should begin breeding already! The same goes for males who are willing and able to produce puppies (which begins at four to six months).
It’s best to have them mentally and physically ready for it, and the particular ages actually depend on their size. While some say you can start breeding after the second heat cycle, it’s best to look into there age and maturity.
These are the average maturity guidelines for dogs:
- Small dogs: 12-18 months old
- Medium dogs: Around 15-18 months old
- Large dogs: Around 18-24 months old
How the Male Will Mount
If a smaller male dog plans to mate with a larger female dog, then he’ll find a way to do so. However, there are risks involved and he may need help from you.
You’ll need to give him the height from a sturdy platform so he can penetrate your female dog. You might even need to keep him steady until he penetrates completely and that they’re safely locked.
I do not recommend that you have a larger male breed with a smaller female since this injures the latter from the mounting down to labor.
»Can French Bulldogs Breed Naturally? The Answer Will Surprise You!
How the Female Takes the Delivery
Again, I highly recommend that the female is larger than the male dog to prevent risks and injury. If the female is smaller, assess the size difference and see if the female dog will be able to take the mating process and delivery.
The mounting should NOT rip the female dog’s vaginal opening or even lock and have the male lay on her. Furthermore, the puppies may grow bigger in the dog’s belly, especially if she’s carrying only one or two. She’ll need a lot of medical supervision during these times.
Alternative Breeding Methods
Do you plan on cross-breeding an extremely small dog with a bigger one? While possible, it’s extremely uncomfortable, either for the male to mount, or the female’s pregnancy. Because of this, you may want to consider alternative breeding methods, usually artificial insemination.
The veterinarian will perform this procedure, collecting sperm from the stud and injecting it into the female dog’s vulva with a sterile syringe. This is a good method if you have a small male stud and a bigger female dog to prevent any mounting or pregnancy health risks. It’s also beneficial to lessen the risk of either dog developing venereal disease or urinary tract infection.
Consider the Risks Associated
Take note that breeding these two different-sized dogs come with more risks compared to the typical breeding process. While it’s safe to breed different-sized dogs with proper attention and supervision, there are still risks. This goes for dogs with an extreme difference in size, so you’ll need to seek advice from the veterinarian to see if it’s still safe.
There are dangerous risks involved, especially when breeding with a small pregnant mother. They may suffer from minor genital injuries through the mounting or even death of both puppies and mother during labor! That’s why you have to be extremely careful and maybe even reconsider breeding both dogs.
For more information on how exactly you should breed your dog, check out this interesting video:
Wrapping It Up
Are you planning to breed a smaller dog with a big one? Well, there are a few factors to consider when doing so, from the gender of the breeds down to the safety of mounting and pregnancy. As long as you take care of all those, you won’t have issues throughout the process.
I hope my article answered your question, “Can a big dog breed with a small dog?” Now that you know the answer, learn more about the mating process for dogs today.
Crazy thoughts and search. Crazier I find answer and people do it. Wow
Actually I saw somebody walking two dogs. One was very large and the other very small
Glad to help you.
I have a male husky and a female shar-pei. Neither are fixed and my female is in heat now. She’s smaller than he is, but not terribly so. Is that a danger? They’re comparable in weight (she’s about 50-55lbs and he’s between 60-65). They’re also comparable in body size. I don’t want to risk her life though.