Puppies giving birth?

[sanford]

A "Random Quote" on the home page here describes dogs going into estrus at approx 6 months of age. Given that the gestation period is 2 months, the dog would then give birth when only 8 months old. 

I had the impression, (possibly wrong), that a dog is considered to be a puppy throughout its first year. If so, that would mean that puppies are giving birth to puppies! Can this be true? Can an " immature" puppy have the ability to nurture and rear pups of her own, while she herself might not yet be fully developed as an adult?

I readily admit to not knowing much on this topic, and would appreciate it if anyone could enlighten me!

 

[bradl]

1 hour ago, sanford said:

Can an " immature" puppy have the ability to nurture and rear pups of her own, while she herself might not yet be fully developed as an adult?

Short answer: yes. Advisable? Probably not.

[Ripper70]

Interesting. I'd have thought it'd take longer than 6 months. Some info on the subject can be found here...

 

[calypso]

I relate it to human terms. Can a twelve year old get pregnant? Yes. Does that mean it’s a good idea? Hardly

[Hillscreek]

If she comes into heat, gets pregnant, gives birth to pups, then she will instinctively know what to do. Happens all the time out there on the streets with feral dogs and cats.