Introduction
Shih Tzu is a Chinese breed dog. It is a small breed dog with long and silky dense hairs. Shih Tzu’s are so popular in breed mating. So, it’s good if you have how and know about the dog’s cycles and pregnancy period.
Like humans, every female dog has to grow through the pregnancy period. This period is commonly referred to as being in heat. A Shih Tzu also has a specific reproduction cycle.
A new Shih Tzu owner always wants to know the pregnancy period. The answer to your question is here!
So, when can Shih Tzu mate? The mating period of a female Shih Tzu can come anytime from six to 15 months of age. Most vets recommend 2 years for mating when your Shih Tzu reaches the age of maturity.
If your Shih Tzu has not had her first cycle after 15 month period should be checked by a vet.
A period of mating has a lot of facts that a Shih Tzu owner must need to know. Keep reading this guiding article.
When can Shih Tzu Mate?
Every pet owner wants little puppies from his dog as they are cute and adorable. But every dog has its proper time for mating. Mating depends on the breed, age, and mating partner.
It is good to mate your male and female Shih Tzu at their right ages. Age determines the fertility of your dog but it doesn’t mean that a fertile dog is ready to breed.
Generally, smaller dogs can be bred earlier than larger breeds, proving that all breeds have different mating periods.
The best maturity age for mating a Shih Tzu is 2 years. This mating age is highly recommended by vets and dog trainers.
Some breeders believe that Shih Tzu can breed a large number of puppies. But there are a lot of critical facts about Shih Tzu’s pregnancy. There is no right time to get pregnant and exact number of Shih Tzu puppies.
Some vets suggest 8 months but practically this age is too young to get pregnant. Where, 8 years is too old to become pregnant. If you have a Shih Tzu, you must wait for her perfect age which is 2 years.
How Many Times does a Shih Tzu Give Birth in a Year?
If you are searching for your Shih Tzu pregnancy period then you are at the right place. Birth-giving capacity depends on the health and breed of a dog.
Usually, the pregnancy period requires 58 to 68 days. Average days are assumed to be 63 days for delivery.
But how many times does a Shih Tzu give birth in a year? Generally, a female Shih Tzu will come into heat twice in a year.
Shih Tzu is mostly treated as the sweetest toy breed but like other dog breeds, Shih Tzu also needs too much care during their pregnancy period. A proper diet plan is necessary for mother Shih Tzu and upcoming baby dogs.
Being a responsible pet owner, keep a close watch over your female dog. Things can get complicated for the mother when more puppies become her responsibility.
As it is mentioned above, not all deliveries for Shih Tzu go easily. According to research, around a quarter of them have required C-section surgeries. This is because natural birth is found to be more unsafe for the mother dog and her puppies.
Breeding is not a child’s play and your dog is not a bank account for you. You need to know the process to get your Shih Tzu pregnant otherwise she can die from it.
Process to get your Shih Tzu pregnant
Before breeding your Shih Tzu, it is good to pre-assume all the efforts, time, and expenses. Breed facilitation encounters for two dogs. So, you must know about both dogs and treat them as good pet parents.
The birth of puppies depends on both male and female dogs. Make sure male and female dogs are healthy enough for the breed. None of them should not sick or suffering from genetic disorders.
Take Suggestions
The best way to find out the way to breed your Shih Tzu is to talk to some experienced breeders. Breeders have much knowledge and they can tell you firsthand what to expect from the experience.
They can tell you future coming troubles, and what mistakes you should avoid.
Commit Time for Breeding
The average time required for breeding is at least 130 hours. Sometimes it may require days off work and sleepless nights. You should be ready to commit the time and personal effort required to care for both dogs.
Make Sure Your Shih Tzu is Ready to Breed
It is assumed that Shih Tzu should have her first litter after her second heat cycle after the age of 2 years. You can guess if your Shih Tzu is ready or not.
She is ready when she will stay and move her tail to the side to show her willingness. If a female is not ready to mate, she will run from or avoid a male Shih Tzu.
Pregnancy Period
Monitor your female Shih Tzu closely in the weeks of pregnancy. Prepare a birthing space before delivery, and be present on the delivery of puppies. Make sure to care for the puppies.
Budget Plan
Make sure to bear all the expenses for your dog and puppies. A proper budget plan is necessary including food, health care, documents for proof of quality, and other facilities.
All these steps will help you to breed your Shih Tzu successfully. Never force your dog to mate, let her show you her willingness to mate.
How Would I know if my Shih Tzu wants to Mate?
A female Shih Tzu will be receptive to a male when she wants to mate. Here are some Signs that point to her being pregnant. These signs include:
- Behavioral changes
- Swelling of the vulva without bleeding
- Increased nipple size
- Swollen stomach.
- Receptive to male dogs.
- Excessive licking of the genital area.
- Agitated, nervous, or aggressive behavior.
- Urinating more frequently
The more you know about your dog’s cycle, the more prepared you will be for any physical and behavioral changes. These changes will occur during her heat and mate process.
During each phase of her heat and mate cycle, you will notice all the above changes. The pregnancy period lasts between 56 to 63 days. The typical litter size is a maximum of four puppies.
Shih Tzu Breed Cycle
A female Shih Tzu has to face two phases in her breed cycle. It includes all the noted behaviors and signs by vets. The breed cycle of a Shih Tzu has 4 to 8 months.
A new Shih Tzu owner must read this article.
Shih Tzu Menstruation
Menstruation happens in Shih Tzu as it does in all other dogs. The temperature of heated Shih Tzu rises and there will be a red-colored discharge from her swollen vulva. Other signs of being heated by a Shih Tzu include fatigue, restlessness, increased urination, and mood changes.
Sexual Maturity of Male Shih Tzu
A mature male dog is always ready to mate at any time. A male Shih Tzu takes around eight to nine months of age to reach the age of maturity. A male Shih Tzu can smell a female dog in heat from as far away as three miles. Some energetic Shih Tzu might become very aggressive in trying to reach and mate with her.
Concluding Thoughts
Shih Tzu is a breed that can mate 2 times a year under the proper care and attention. If you are a first Shih Tzu owner you must need to consult your vet or any experienced dog owner. In any emergency case, call your vet immediately.
