How long is the gestation circle of a dog

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A.� The length of pregnancy, or gestation period, is 61 to 65 days, the average being 63 days from the first day of breeding.

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Q.� How often do dogs become fertile

A.� A female becomes fertile, or 'on heat' approximately twice a year. She is fertile for a few specific days within this period, usually for around 5 to 9 days. When these days occur is individual to the dog and will be influenced by size, age, and if she has been pregnant before.

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Q.� Can my dog breed with any dog

A.� Theoretically yes. Despite all the different shapes and sizes there is only one species of dog: therefore your dog could mate with and have puppies with any other breed of dog. However bear in mind the size of your dog to avoid problems during the pregnancy and birth: allowing her to mate with a bigger breed of dog and therefore potentially carry large puppies, could be very dangerous.

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If you have a purebred dog then you may wish to mate her with another purebred.

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Q.� When is my dog ready to breed

A.� This depends on the breed of your dog; a dog can reach sexual maturity any time from 4 to 18 months.

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Q.� Are there any tell tale signs that my dog is fertile

A.� There will be some bloody vaginal discharge and she will urinate more frequently. There may be some behavioural clues like restlessness. Also male dogs will begin to appear, apparently from nowhere, while you're out walking and your dog will be receptive towards them rather than wary.

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Q.� Can I tell when my dog is about to give birth

A.� When it's near to the time for your dog to deliver her puppies she may become restless and begin to nest. Her body temperature will drop and once it has fallen below 37 degrees Celsius labour normally starts within the next 24 hours.

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by Lisa Cardy