Pure Dog Talk

Pre-breeding Protocols, Folic Acid, Cleft Palate and More Photo of a puppy with a cleft palate Dr. Marty Greer, DVM, JD, joins us for an important conversation about pre-breeding protocols. Greer provides insight on what to do (hint: folic acid!) and what not to do to help ensure a healthy litter. Bitches who are to be bred should be started on a protocol 6-8 weeks ahead of estrus, Greer noted. Considerations include a proper diet, supplements and when to use flea, tick and heartworm treatments. "We know from livestock and wildlife that when females are just slightly soft they produce more offspring," Greer said. "They ovulate more if the caloric intake increases just before mating." Appropriate diets should include carbs, Greer said, and avoid phytoestrogens from peas/legumes. Owners should also supplement vitamin b9, folic acid, starting 2 months ahead of breeding to help prevent cleft palates. Greer recommends dosing 5mg/dog/day. For more information on some of the research on this topic, go to http:/