A quality diet rich in protein should be eaten all year in order to maximize the chances for a larger litter. Nutrition plays a big part in determining the number of pups in a litter. What Part Does Nutrition Play in Litter Size? Genetic traits are mainly coat color, eye color, and size. Genetics (other than breed) account for roughly 15% in determining litter size. The most famous champions tend to be bred until the approximate age of 5. At 1.5 to 5 years, there is more of a chance of the sperm fusing with the dam’s eggs. After 5 years, the sire’s sperm count and quality begin to diminish. The age of the male sire plays a part in litter size as well. According to an article in Royal Canin, the 3rd and 4th pregnancies are generally the largest. Dams bred from 2-5 years usually have the largest litters.ĭespite the age of the dam, the first 2 litters will generally be smaller than the ones afterwards. The older the dam, the smaller the litter, especially in larger breeds. The age of the dog when breeding plays a key part in litter size. Are There Other Ways To Affect the Size of a Dog’s Litter? According to the American Kennel Club, litters born in the spring are generally larger than litters born in other times of the year. This is likely due to more sperm dying during collection and insemination.Īnother key factor that affects size is when a dam gives birth to a litter of puppies. Humans have control over certain aspects of when and how a female dog is bred that can affect litter size, but there are limits.Īrtificially inseminated dams produce smaller litters than those impregnated naturally. Dog owners may want more bundles of squirming puppy joy from their canine companion. Reputable breeders want more puppies if they have a lineup of people wanting them. Some of the puppies may be delivered stillborn, and the dam may become exhausted during delivery. For instance, the Pekingese, weighing in at just 7-14 pounds, may give birth to as many as 10 puppies.īig litters can be dangerous to the mother dog (dam) due to delivery problems, especially in smaller dogs. While the norm is that larger dogs have larger litters, it’s not always the case. Here are a few breeds and their estimated litter sizes: Generally, big dogs have larger litters because, biologically, they’re able to safely carry more puppies. The breed of dog is the biggest determinant of litter size. Why does litter size vary so much and what determines litter size in puppies? OVRS looks at the main factors affecting litter size.ĭoes Breed Determine a Dog’s Litter Size? The world record according to Guinness is a whopping twenty four puppies, birthed by a Neapolitan Mastiff in the UK in 2004. Normal puppy litter size tends to vary from one to twelve.
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