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Can a small dog safely carry puppies from a much larger male?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Australian Shepherd | Female | 11 months and 10 days old | 40 lbs

My dog at 10 months, who is 40 lbs, is possibly pregnant by a 90 lb great Pyrenees, can it be a problem since the male is so much larger?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on November 15th, 2017

Hi, thabks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! The size difference may or may not be a problem. If her litter is large the puppies will be smaller. If she only has one or two she’d be at more risk for needing a c-section. I would have your Vet take an X-ray at day 50 to confirm pregnancy and to count puppies. Write down the date she was bred. Dogs are pregnant 60-63 days. Starting at day 55 start taking her temperature daily rectally. Stage 1 labor tends to start 24 hrs once the temperature drops below 99 F. But your Vet can help you and go over concerns once we know she is pregnant and size of the litter. I hope this helps and good luck!

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