Too old to have puppies??

Question
We have a Shih-tzu who is 7 years old, is she too old to have puppies? She is happy and healthy.

Answer
Hi Hannah,

I'm not sure why you would want to breed a female at that age. Older females are not usually considered for breeding.

An older female will still be fertile, however they become less regular and their fertility is harder to predict. You have to remember that the stress of pregnancy, whelp and rearing pups are better suited for a younger female.

Also, another point to consider.  Breeding and whelping may change your females personality making her more aggressive and territorial. Just a thought.