06/06/2026
Let’s talk about retirement in br33ding females
Every br33der has a different philosophy when it comes to age, number of l•i•t•t•e•r•s, and overall timing for retiring their dogs. This discussion is focused specifically on females, since males typically have longer breeding careers.
For us, retirement is never based on a single rule or number. Each female is evaluated individually based on her health, how she recovers after having babies, and whether she genuinely enjoys motherhood. Some girls absolutely love raising babies, while others make it clear they would prefer a different stage of life, and we listen to that.
The A•K•C allows l•i•t•t•e•r•s to be registered from females up to 1️⃣2️⃣ years of age. While that is technically permitted, it is not something we would ever consider. Our personal guideline is that most of our girls retire by 7️⃣ years old. In very rare and exceptional situations, a female may have a litter a tiny bit beyond that, but that is the exception rather than the rule.
That said, retirement is never strictly tied to age. Some females are retired after their first l•i•t•t•e•r if we feel it is best for their well being. Others may never be br3d at all if they are not an ideal fit for our program, and some enjoy full br33ding careers with appropriate care during and between babies.
After each l•i•t•t•e•r, our females are thoroughly examined by our veterinarian to ensure they are in excellent health and physically ready if another br33ding is even being considered. If at any point our vet feels that a female should not be bred again, she is immediately retired and spayed. Their health and comfort always come first, without exception.
Now, we are at a point where several of our females will be retiring within the next year, and while it is always a very planned process, it never is easy, as some do go onto amazing retirement homes.
Brynley is currently pregnant and is expected to have one final l•i•t•t•e•r before she retires. O’Hara has just completed her most recent honeymoon and will retire after this upcoming l•i•t•t•e•r. Fancy is currently in heat and will be skipped this cycle, but she is planned for two more l•i•t•t•e•r next year before her retirement. Valhalla has been more difficult to get settled, and if she does not take on this final attempt, she will also be retired.
I won’t lie, it is always bittersweet to step away from these incredible girls. Especially the ones who consistently outdo themselves and produce truly phenomenal babies each time. They give so much to our program, and letting them move on to their next chapter is never something we take lightly, but it is always done with their well being at the center of every decision. Every retiree deserves a soft landing, a slower pace, and a life where they are simply loved and cherished without expectation. After giving so much of themselves, they get to spend their days being spoiled, relaxed, and fully enjoying the next chapter of their lives as strictly beloved family members.
To clarify, Fancy and O’Hara are staying here in retirement. Bryn and Halla have people waiting for them at this time, I will update if anything changes!
