I have a 10 year old collie cross and have just caught her and a 7 month old rottweiler dog mating,she's a week into her season.Can she get pregnant?as she is quite old and the rottie is only 7 months.

Of course she could be pregnant! Why haven't you gotten her spayed? She'd be much healthier and would live longer.

Two of our members, Labman and Ruby, who give advice re dogs and dog training, will see your question and will give excellent advice.

Wondergirl is right. No doubt she can be pregnant. Best to get the rott fixed since he's at the prime age. Ideally it's 6 months. Talk to your vet about your collie, as they may say she's too old to undergo the procedure. Is the rott puppy even yours?

At least it may be a small litter if she is. Start being more careful. Whether that mating takes or not, she will mate with any dog she get a chance to for the next week guaranteeing a larger litter.

I can't think of any rational reason not to have spayed her long ago or not to as soon as the vet is willing. Serious breeders spay older dogs when they retire as breeding stock.

I got the collie about 4 weeks ago from a relative who passed away,so haven't had chance to get her spayed yet.The rottie is mine but my vet won't neuter him till he's a year old.I kept the collie separated from the other dog while she was in season,but didn't realise she could open doors and that's how she got out.

I often suggest that people with females in season beware of creative, strenuous efforts to get loose. I am sorry if we were a little harsh with you over what wasn't all your doing. As much as those of us that struggle with the problems of accidental breeding don't like the idea, some of my reading suggests the vet may be on sound medical ground. I seldom suggest people go against their vet's advice. So, watch her even more carefully, and get them fixed when your vet is willing to do it.

Thank you for taking a 10 year old dog. They are hard to place, but deserve a good home.