1st time pug breeding

Question
A friend and I are trying to breed our pugs for one batch of pups before we fix them. The only problem is that my male cannot seem to hit his mark. He definitely knows what needs to be done, but can't quite enter her. We were just going to let nature decide, but we would really like to see some pups. What should we do? He is 3 years old, and has never sired. Is it just inexperience? Are pugs a breed that need assistance? Also, how do we create the perfect environment for them to get into the mood more often? Thanks a bunch!

Answer
Hello Hope:

First of all, you'll have to determine if the female is yet in estrus, which is the fertile portion of the heat cycle. It's possible she may not be & is making things more difficult for the male to achieve penetration. Normally estrus begins around day 9 or 10 from the initial onset of the cycle & the vaginal discharge has lightened in flow & color, becoming more of a light pink to straw color. If you're certain she is indeed in estrus & she's responsive to him & even encouraging, then it's very possible your male's lack of experience may be the factor. I would suggest trying some assistance the next time you attempt a mating. Once he's mounting, try placing your hand under his tail, pushing him gently forward & slightly upward. You'll probably need to practice this several times & may need to adjust it once you're able to gauge exactly what to guide where. Make sure they're on a non-slip surface, such as carpeting or a rubber mat or the like - he'll need secure footing to make him more apt to cooperate. You might also try using something which may elevate him a tad, such as a thick square wad of towels or if you have access to a place with a slanted floor. It will probably be quite a bit of trial & error until you find what works best for you.
As for environment, might I suggest dim lighting & Barry White? LOL Actually just make it a place that's quiet, temperature friendly & with as few interruptions or disturbances as possible.

One point I'd like for you to consider before breeding - pugs are notorious for having whelping problems. They often require C-sections which, of course, is expensive & has its risks. Also pugs as well as all the other flat-faced breeds, such as bulldogs, etc., have a higher than average rate of walrus or water babies. This is where for an unknown reason, possibly a genetic link, a puppy will be born literally engorged with fluid. Often the puppies on either or both sides of the water baby will be deficient of fluids. There has been some success with these circumstances where Lasix (a diuretic drug) is given to the water baby & the excessive fluid is excreted and subcutaneous fluids provided to the fluid deficient ones & all is well. I just feel you should be well aware of ALL the risks you could face in breeding.

I hope this helps & please let me know if you have any additional questions.