August 7, 2025, 1:29 pm | Read time: 4 minutes
Whether due to ignorance, romanticized notions, or misguided animal love, the myth persists: Every female dog should have puppies at least once in her life. But what sounds like a “natural desire” can actually have significant consequences—for the animal and the owners. Dog trainer Katharina Marioth dispels common misconceptions in a conversation with PETBOOK and explains why this idea is not only outdated but sometimes even illegal.
Dangerous Anthropomorphism of Animals
This view is often justified by saying that female dogs “also want to be moms”—an argument that dog trainer Katharina Marioth finds baseless. “I would prefer to get up and leave, that’s how nonsensical I find this statement,” she says in a conversation with PETBOOK.
For her, this myth is not only biologically and behaviorally outdated but also a dangerous anthropomorphism of the animal. Moreover, in many cases, it already borders on a legal gray area or even illegality—such as when there is no knowledgeable breeding license.
No Biological Benefit
In her work, Marioth regularly encounters this misconception. She often hears statements like: “Before we spay her, she should have a litter.” An attitude that, in her opinion, leads to a chain of misunderstandings. In such cases, she explains matter-of-factly that in many states, it is illegal to allow a female dog to mate without a certificate of expertise—and for good reason. “We know today that there is no biological benefit to a female dog having puppies once in her life. On the contrary, it brings many challenges.”
If arguments alone don’t help, a change in perspective often does: She asks the owners if they could really take ten weeks off to be there for the mother and puppies around the clock. Practical questions like finding a suitable stud dog or arranging medical care often lead people to rethink.
Also interesting: Why a female dog behaves so strangely during heat
Eight or Even Ten Puppies Mean Enormous Work
Despite all the education, so-called “oops litters,” or unplanned pregnancies, still occur. Marioth reacts to this term with disbelief: “Especially in the city, I often can’t understand it. A mating act in dogs lasts about 15 minutes—how can I not notice that?” She often sees it as an excuse to shift responsibility onto the animal.
If it does happen, quick and responsible action is required: Apply for leave—unpaid if necessary—to fully care for the female dog and the litter. Eight or even ten puppies mean enormous work, Marioth emphasizes. It’s also important to get informed early: Do I need a certificate of expertise? Where can I even advertise the puppies? Especially in big cities like Berlin, unauthorized puppy trading can quickly lead to a fine of up to 10,000 euros. Additionally, the physical and psychological maturity of the female dog is crucial—many underestimate how long it takes for a female dog to truly mature.
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Responsible Handling During Heat
But should you have your female dog spayed as a precaution to avoid such situations? Here, too, Marioth expresses a nuanced view: She is not a general advocate of spaying, as it can have strong effects on behavior—especially if there is no medical reason. Much more important is responsible handling during heat.
“Leash laws are essential during this time,” she explains. Free running is only acceptable in a fenced garden or securely enclosed area. After all, the female dog is only receptive on a few days. And if she is then harassed by pushy males, it can even lead to aggressive behavior because she feels compelled to fend off unwanted partners. “Three weeks on a leash is manageable,” Marioth says. There are plenty of ways to ensure physical activity even on a leash.
Conclusion: There Is No Sensible Reason for Female Dogs to Have Puppies
In the end, the dog trainer has a clear message: There is no sensible reason for a female dog to have puppies. Rather, it is important to take responsibility—not only for one’s own animal but also for animal welfare and society. Shelters are full, and the market is saturated. Anyone who still decides to have a litter must be aware of the legal, organizational, and emotional consequences—and be well-prepared.
About the Expert
Katharina Marioth is the founder of the brand Stadthundetraining and the KEML principle. She is an IHK- and government-certified dog trainer and behavioral assessor for dangerous dogs in the state of Berlin. In her daily business, she works closely with veterinarians, scientists, and other specialists on dog-related topics. With her knowledge and skills, she secured the title of Dog Trainer of the Year 2023 in the Sat.1 show “The Dog Trainer Champion.”