Common Dog Breeds Delivered by Caesarean Section and Why

For thousands of years, dogs have naturally carried and delivered their litters without human intervention. However, in recent decades, some dog breeds have increasingly required assistance during birth, particularly by caesarean section.

In fact, for certain breeds, caesarean delivery has become so common that without this intervention, natural birth would be rare or almost impossible — meaning many modern breeds would struggle to survive across generations.

While caesareans can be life-saving, they carry risks for both the dam and her puppies, especially when performed as emergency procedures. Additionally, they can be costly and there is a concern that traits necessitating caesarean delivery may be passed on genetically, potentially perpetuating the cycle.

This comprehensive guide explores the dog breeds most commonly delivered by caesarean section, the underlying reasons, and responsible breeding considerations to promote healthier future generations.

What is a caesarean section?

A caesarean section, or C-section, is a surgical procedure used to deliver puppies when natural birth is dangerous or not possible. Typically performed on dams that are full-term or near-term, the procedure involves anaesthetising the dam under sterile conditions and making incisions through the skin, muscle, and uterus to remove the puppies safely.

Since the dam is unconscious during birth and during the initial moments of her puppies’ lives, challenges can arise such as maternal rejection or difficulty recognising her pups. The dam also faces a healing wound and risk of infection while caring for her litter.

Therefore, caesarean delivery is not considered ideal except when necessary for the health and safety of the mother and her puppies.

1. French Bulldog

The French Bulldog is one of the breeds with the highest rates of caesarean delivery, with around 80% of litters born by C-section. This is due to anatomical features such as their narrow hips, brachycephalic (flat) faces, and puppies with large, broad heads. These physical traits make natural birth extremely risky or impossible.

Responsible breeders and owners must be aware of these challenges and plan breeding and whelping carefully to reduce stress and risks.

2. English Bulldog

The English Bulldog shares similarities with the French Bulldog in requiring caesarean delivery for approximately 80% of litters. Their broad heads, flat faces, and wide necks contribute to birthing difficulties.

Natural delivery is rarely feasible due to the size of the puppies’ heads relative to the dam’s pelvic canal.

3. Boston Terrier

Boston Terriers also have high caesarean section rates, generally between 75-80%. Their heads are relatively large and their hips narrow compared to many other breeds, which can complicate natural delivery.

Though these traits are less extreme than in bulldogs, caesarean delivery is often recommended for safety.

4. Scottish Terrier

The Scottish Terrier is an interesting case. They are not brachycephalic and have sturdy frames, but their puppies can have heads large in proportion to their mother's hips. Around 60% of Scottish Terrier litters are delivered by caesarean for this reason.

5. Chihuahua

Chihuahuas have two main variants: “apple head” and “deer head.” The apple head type has a disproportionately large, dome-shaped skull, increasing the likelihood of requiring caesarean delivery. This is less common in the more proportionate deer head variant.

6. Mastiff

The mastiff is a giant breed with muscular build and large-headed puppies. Delivery can be logistically challenging due to size, and many mastiffs require caesarean section to deliver safely.

Veterinary teams must be well prepared for these operations as both dam and pups are at risk during delivery.

Kennel Club breeding restrictions regarding caesarean sections

The Kennel Club has taken important steps to limit the breeding of dams who require multiple caesarean deliveries. Specifically, any dam who has had two caesarean litters cannot have further litters registered.

This regulation aims to discourage breeding dogs with problematic conformation that endangers their health and welfare, promoting more responsible breeding practices to prevent perpetuating difficult birth traits.

Prospective puppy buyers should always seek reputable breeders who prioritise the health and well-being of their dogs, including considering factors that affect birth risks.

Frequently asked question: What causes the need for caesarean section in dogs?

Quick Answer: The need for a caesarean section in dogs is mainly due to physical traits such as narrow hips, large puppy heads, and brachycephalic (flat-faced) features that make natural birth difficult or unsafe.

Detailed Explanation: Breeding for certain physical characteristics — like the flat faces of bulldogs or the disproportionately large heads in some toy breeds — can lead to dystocia, which is a difficult or failed natural delivery. Narrow pelvic canals in the dam combined with large-headed pups increase the risk of complications requiring surgical intervention to safely deliver the litter. Some breeds are also predisposed to medical or genetic issues that complicate pregnancy and birth, making caesarean delivery a safer option to protect both the dam and puppies. Elective caesareans are often planned in high-risk breeds to prevent emergency distress situations.

Where to find a puppy safely

If you are interested in welcoming one of these lovely breeds into your family, ensure you find a French Bulldog puppy, English Bulldog breeders, or puppies and other breeds from reputable breeders who prioritise health and ethical breeding practices.

Choosing a responsible breeder helps improve the chances of healthier puppies with fewer birth complications and supports better canine welfare overall.

Conclusion

Caesarean delivery in dogs is more common than many realise, particularly in breeds with specific anatomical and genetic traits that limit safe natural birthing. While it is often necessary to ensure dam and puppy survival, these procedures come with risks that highlight the importance of considering health and conformation when breeding.

As prospective dog owners or breeders, prioritising responsible choices and understanding the unique needs of each breed plays a vital role in enhancing canine health and welfare in future generations.