Breeding big and small dogs.

Dr. Marie replied:

Hi and thanks for your question!

This is a tough one to answer. While there is a chance that Bitty can deliver these puppies on her own, there is a good possibility that she will end up having problems.

Here are a few suggestions for you. One option is to let her have the puppies but be prepared for a C-Section if necessary. This means being sure that there is an emergency vet available if she needs one. If she is in labor and actively pushing for more than 30-60 minutes and nothing is being produced then she will need a C-Section right away. If you decide to go this route then you need to make sure you have finances set aside. In most places a C-Section can run $1500 or more.

Another option is to have your vet take an xray when she is approximately 50 days pregnant. This will tell you how many pups are there and how large they are. If your vet feels they are too large then a C-Section can be preplanned.

If neither of these are good options for you, then it is possible to terminate the pregnancy. However, what we usually do to terminate a pregnancy is to spay the dog. Most vets will be willing to spay a dog who is pregnant. However, the price usually ends up being higher than a regular dog spay.

While there is a medical treatment that can abort the puppies it is not often done because it is risky, painful and expensive.

I hope everything is ok!

Dr. Marie

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