Flexi Says: The number of offspring per birth is influenced by both genes and the environment. The domestic dog, Canis familiaris, is a direct descendent of the gray wolf, Canis lupus. Many traits were passed down, including having multiple pups. Wolves have around 4-6 pups per litter. Most dogs have around this number, although some breeds genes have been changed by artificial selection. In general, larger breeds tend to produce larger litters of 8-12 or more. Small breed dogs may have only 1-4 pups per litter.
