How old should your dog be when you start them out breeding? Also, about what age do you normally stop breeding a dog?

Thanks!

Usually you start breeding males at 2(when they're mature). Females, you breed them after their 2nd heat. That could possibly be when she is 2 as well. Normally (from most breeders I've talked to) you aren't supposed to breed females after the age of 5 & you only breed them once a year, tops. I'm not sure if it matters how old the male is. But I assume you shouldn't breed them after 6yrs or so.

Thank you! I really appreciate it.

You should wait to breed your dog until it is old enough to have passed all the needed health clearances for it's breed. For Danes, that's at least 2 yrs when your dog and it's mate will have clearances for hips, heart and thyroid. For smaller breeds it may be patellas, hearts and eyes. Each breed has different needed clearances. You should research whatever breed you plan to breed to check for more specifics.

As to the age to stop breeding, it also depends on the breed. However, most breeders will not breed a female over the age of 6 yrs or a total of 3 litters, whichever comes first. A Dane female is pretty old at 6yrs so my husband (who breeds them) will never breed a female over 5 yrs. Males may be bred for much longer but AKC requires a vet report if the male is over 10yrs when bred.