breeding bulldogs

Question
Hi we have a 13mth old bulldog bitch and her second season is due next month. She was quite late with her first so could she go longer before her second? We are hoping to breed her on her next one but are slightly worried that this could cause later problems,we are however going for the safest option of artificial insemination and c section so this will ease things for her. i know many people think wait until her 3rd season but will it really cause such problems? Thanks Michelle

Answer
Hi Michelle. I have to say, I don't go by how many heats she has had. I just wait until the dog is two years of age before breeding. This allows her more time to finish growing, physically and mentally. I feel that when the bitch is older and then bred, it helps her and the puppies. Ask her breeder about her mom's cycles. This will give you a calue as to what to expect. She may go into heat 6 months after the first, 8 months, or she may even go into heat only once a year. This is where finding out about the mother's cycle will help you.