Breeding a 9-month-old Dachshund is not recommended. At this age, Dachshunds are only sexually mature, not physically mature. Their bodies are still developing, and breeding at this stage can negatively impact the dog's health and the health and quality of future offspring. It's crucial to understand the difference between sexual and physical maturity when considering breeding.
A 9-month-old Dachshund is not suitable for breeding because while they might experience their first heat cycle, this only indicates sexual maturity. Their physical development is not yet complete. Breeding at this stage can lead to complications. Generally, it is best to wait until a Dachshund is at least 12 months old, ideally during their second heat cycle. By this time, their skeletal structure is more developed, which significantly reduces the risk of issues like a narrow pelvis that could lead to dystocia (difficult labor). Premature breeding can lead to various health problems for both the mother and her puppies.
Furthermore, when your dog is in heat, it's best not to breed them immediately. Wait about a week into their heat cycle. This is because the female dog is most likely to ovulate during this time, which increases the chances of successful conception. To ensure successful mating, it's common to breed them twice with a two-day interval between sessions. If your dog displays symptoms like a reduced appetite, increased sleepiness, and gradual enlargement of mammary glands after mating, this often suggests a successful pregnancy. At this point, it's crucial to provide your dog with proper nutrition to support the development of the fetus.