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Caring for the brood bitch

Her health is the foundation of every litter: before, between and after.

Before breeding

She should be mature, healthy, lean, vaccinated and dewormed, and have passed the health tests recommended for the breed. Many kennel clubs have rules on her minimum age and the number of litters she may have, so check yours before you plan.

Between litters

Give her time to recover fully, in weight, coat and condition, before the next litter. Kennel club rules often limit how often she may be bred, and your vet can help you judge when she is ready. The app's breeding planner can check a planned litter against the rules.

Retirement

Decide when she will retire from breeding while she is still healthy, and discuss spaying with your vet then. A retired brood bitch deserves a calm life, and some breeders place retired dogs in carefully chosen homes.

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