Query for breeders - timescales after mating

[celestebellman]

Hi, I have been in touch with some breeders recently, as we are hoping to get our first dog. As expected many didn’t reply, or had plans for a litter at some point in the year, which is fine and I expected there to be a wait. One said she had just mated her dog, so would be in touch if things went well. I’m not sure whether to get back in touch if I don’t hear anything, as I guess they get a lot of enquiries - but I don’t want to seem pushy. I know dog pregnancies are only a couple of months so I guess they would know within a few weeks of successful but I’m not sure? Also no idea of the average success rate. Any advice appreciated. Thanks

Dogs are pregnant for 9 weeks from mating (give or take 5 days). Owners can have an ultrasound scan done half way though - so 4 1/2 weeks from mating - to confirm pregnancy.

As for how successful, that depends on many different factors, not least the breed. If I was to guess I'd say 80% success rate overall. But I have no data for that, just based on my (very limited) experience.

Ok, thanks - so I guess it would not be confirmed until 4 weeks. I thought they would know earlier so that is helpful to know!