Choosing a irish setter stud

Question
I am looking into breeding my 3 year old bitch, she weighs about 5o pounds. The sire I am considering is about 80 pounds and 9 years old. Is he too large and is he still fertile at that age?

Thank you,

Greg  

Answer
Hi Greg

Males can produce semen up to the "bitter end" so it should still be viable but it would hurt to have it check.  A quick and easy semen test will tell you if the sperm is worth using.

Males in most species will be larger than the female so as long as she's in top physical and mental health she should have no difficulty whelping this litter.  Irish Setters are not prone to whelping complications.

Good luck