Lab Breeding

Question
I have a 5 year old black lab (Ann) who had an intentional litter almost 2 years ago.  We kept a yellow male (Waylon) from the litter and have managed to keep them seperate while Ann is in heat for 2 years.  Unfortunately tonight my husband and I looked away for no more than two minutes and they locked up.  I am curious what my options are for in breeding.  Is it possible that it was ineffectual? If it wasn't, what will happen to the pups if/when we do have a litter? Also are there day after options that could be harmless and less painful than a defective pup? Please help.

Answer
Hi Lo

You have two options, take the dam to the vet for a easy injection that will cause her to abort the litter, or let the pregnancy progress.   

With in-breeding you have a greater risk of inherited disorders, so you want the two dogs and their predecessors, to be superior.  You will narrow in on one common ancestor BUT with a litter, you may get one or two good pups and the rest will have a higher percentage of having and passing hip and elbow dysplasia, luxating patella, retinal atrophy, corneal dystrophy, cataracts, myopathy, autoimmune diseases, deafness and ear infections. All very common in labs.

If you choose the shot from the vet, the best time to do it is within 48 hours of mating.  If you are going to let the pregnancy to continue, it's extremely important to inform all future owners of any and all health risks that can be associated with the breeding.

Good luck