Analysis of the reproductive performance of Labradors with working certificates

Abstract

The aim of the study was to analyse the results of mating of female Labrador retrievers from show lines with show-line males with working certificates. The research material consisted of breeding results from the Sodalis FCI kennel from 2005-2011, which included 26 litters from eight bitches. Sires with working certificates were used in seven matings. The number of puppies born, the number of stillborn or euthanized puppies, the number of puppies reared, and the ratio of puppies reared to puppies born were analysed. On average 0.44 more puppies were born and 0.68 more were reared in litters from show-line sires with working certificates. The percentages of retained placentas and of stillborn puppies and puppies requiring euthanasia were higher in litters from show-line sires without working certificates. The differences were not confirmed statistically.