Dog Artificial Insemination Uk? Best 268 Answer

Canine “fertility clinics” are on the rise worldwide. “Artificial Insemination”, also known as “AI”, is also becoming increasingly popular in the breeding world. When it comes to dog breeding today, one of the main questions is, “By what method? In 2017, Kennel Club figures showed that approximately 1,152 puppies were born to KI. Exact current numbers are hard to come by, but one can only assume that number has continued to rise significantly. This article aims to delve into the world of canine AI and explore the reasons why dog ​​breeders are using it more and more.

What is AI?

Many dog ​​breeders aim to increase conception rates and litter sizes, and some breeders use AI to achieve this. Artificial insemination is a method of introducing semen (previously collected from a male stud dog) and depositing it into a bitch’s vagina or uterus during the most fertile time of her estrus cycle with the aim of conceiving a pregnancy. Chilled and frozen semen can be used. However, this article does not address the required collection or special storage/transportation methods. AI is not necessarily more successful than the natural method of mating as success is still very much dependent on targeting the ideal stage of ovulation during the oestrus cycle.

Practical aspects of canine AI

There are a few practical reasons why dog ​​breeders prefer AI as a breeding method over natural mating methods (this list is not exhaustive):

AI allows the use of semen from stud dogs worldwide. And eliminates the need to transport stud dogs around the globe to cover a bitch. Since the stud dog does not have to travel, there is no stress related to transport.

AI is sometimes chosen as the method of conception when there have been unsuccessful natural matings, no natural conception has been achieved, or when the bitch or stud dog is inexperienced.

Frozen semen offers the opportunity to pass on “superior” genetic traits from stud dogs that are no longer with us; This allows their desirable traits to be passed on to future litters.

AI reduces (although not completely eliminates) the spread of sexually transmitted diseases. Since the AI ​​method eliminates physical contact, it will prevent the spread of infections and devastating diseases; such as brucellosis, canine herpesvirus (CHV) and canine transmissible venereal tumor (CTVF).

In practice, AI can lead to an expansion of the gene pool as genetic traits are no longer confined to narrow geographic regions.

Canine AI weaknesses/disadvantages

There are also many concerns about the welfare and ethics of canine AI; and there are disadvantages to this breeding method (this list is not exhaustive either!):

There is a risk of direct physical or psychological trauma from the AI ​​process. Inexperienced or incorrect AI methods can lead to complications and infections. Surgical AI in particular carries a high risk of surgery. Some argue that this procedure is not in their best interest.

Because sperm can be frozen and used for many years to pass on certain genes, there is a risk of unwanted traits and genetic disorders being passed on for a very long time.

AI is sometimes a chosen method of breeding in bitches who, for anatomical or breed reasons, cannot conceive naturally. Breeding these dogs with suspected hereditary traits using AI is a major welfare and ethical issue as there are clearly undesirable traits that are likely to be passed on to their offspring and potentially affect their health in the future.

Animal welfare remains highly topical as AI poses risks of transmitting hereditary diseases and conditions.

surgical method

You may be wondering what exactly is surgical AI? During surgical artificial insemination, the breeding bitch is put under general anesthesia and a wound/cut is made to gain access to her abdomen/stomach. The semen is then inserted directly into the uterus. Surgical AI can only be performed by a veterinarian.

For many years, surgical AI has raised many ethical concerns. Since 2019, surgical methods of artificial insemination (except for very limited exceptional reasons) have been banned by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RVCS). Surgical artificial insemination is now considered banned in dogs by the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

The AI ​​surgical method has been described by many veterinarians as unethical, traumatic and now falls into the group of prohibited procedures within the mutilation procedures category. The Kennel Club will no longer register litters made using this method.

Non-surgical methods

There are two non-surgical methods of AI:

Transvaginal or intravaginal – here, fresh or chilled semen is introduced into the vaginal canal with an insemination pipette directly in front of the cervix. This is the most common method of AI in dogs and (apart from natural mating) the least invasive method.

Transcervical – Here the fresh or frozen semen is placed directly into the uterus with special equipment through palpation or the use of an endoscope. Often this procedure is performed without sedation.

Of the two non-surgical AI methods, the transcervical is a more invasive method that is only performed by a veterinarian, but the literature suggests that it has a higher success rate than the transvaginal method.

regularities

Is artificial insemination in dogs legal in the UK? Yes, but only the non-surgical methods are legal.

Who Can Legally Perform Artificial Insemination on Dogs?

Only a veterinarian can legally perform the surgical AI method and the transcervical method as they are classified as “acts of veterinary surgery” and can be performed by appropriately competent laypersons.”

Conclusion

In summary, the global demand for artificial insemination is a growing market and there is a growing demand for chilled and frozen semen. I hope this article has adequately summarized the different methods of AI along with some pros and cons. If you are aspiring to or already involved in AI methods for dogs, please ensure that the AI ​​services are provided by professionals as I understand many inexperienced people are inappropriately providing fertility services and animal welfare must remain a priority.

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What is artificial insemination of dogs?

Artificial insemination of dogs is a dog breeding method used by breeders around the world. Because of the method’s safety, efficiency, and success rate, it’s becoming increasingly popular, especially among smaller breeds.

Normally, two dogs would be bred naturally. This includes the pre-selection of a stud dog and a bitch. The bitch is then mated on a specific day of her season or whenever the male shows most interest in her. However, natural dog breeds are notorious for their risk of STDs and potential harm to both the stud dog and the bitch.

The bitch is usually damaged if she is mated incorrectly on the wrong day of her season. This happens when an inexperienced male is introduced to a female in heat and he subsequently attempts to breed with her.

We recommend testing your bitch for progesterone to minimize damage and ensure she is mated on the right day.

What exactly is artificial insemination?

Artificial insemination is different from natural mating. Breeding is done “artificially” with special equipment and trained staff.

First, the bitch is tested for progesterone to determine her most fertile day. This helps maximize litter size and chances of a successful mating.

After that, the seed should be collected from the male. This can be completed by safely stimulating his genitals and collecting the resulting semen in a semen collection bag. The prostate fluid is normally separated from the sperm around this time.

Finally, the sperm is placed in a syringe and catheter. The artificial insemination catheter is then inserted into the bitch and the sperm deposited safely and quickly.

No anesthesia is required.

The process is easier that way. Artificial insemination takes the pain and stress out of dog breeding, resulting in a happier dog and a joyful breeding process.

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Artificial insemination (AI) has opened up a new world of possibilities in terms of dog breeding. While natural breeding is nature’s best breeding method, AI is becoming the order of the day. It offers advantages that natural mating lacks. The biggest is the fact that breeding can take place anywhere in the world without having to transport dogs to mate. If you are a breeder wanting to go down this route, there is no reason not to. As long as you have the right information about what you’re getting yourself into, you’ll do well. To help you, we’ve put together a guide to how often to fertilize a dog.

What is artificial insemination?

AI has been used primarily on cattle for centuries. Dog breeders were initially shy about using the procedure, but the trend has now caught on in the canine world. This was fueled by increased demand for artificial insemination and advances in seed technology. Simply put, this is the process of breeding dogs without mating by inserting semen into the mother’s vagina when she ovulates to facilitate conception.

The AI ​​is all about choosing the right man to harvest seeds from. He should have the desired personality, intelligence and other qualities. Once he’s chosen, a female teaser will be brought near him. If no female is in heat, a cotton swab scented with a female in heat can be used to arouse the male. When he attempts to mount a female, his penis is then diverted into an artificial vagina from which the semen is extracted.

The seed can be used immediately, chilled in the refrigerator, or frozen. To use it, a syringe with the semen is inserted into the bitch’s cervix during ovulation. Fertilization can also be done surgically or through an extended transcervical endoscope.

Benefits of AI

AI is beneficial as it brings convenience to breeders looking to diversify their genetic pool. In the past, a female had to be transported across borders to mate with the desired male. Now male dog semen can be harvested, stored and transported from any part of the universe. Expanding the genetic pool is especially beneficial for dog breeds that are found in small numbers in certain geographic locations.

AI also allows breeders to improve kennel genetics. You have access to a plethora of options, even seeds from deceased dogs. The procedure also allows the sperm to be examined for abnormalities and fertility. It also prevents sexually transmitted diseases.

Success rate of artificial insemination in dogs

According to an article in BBC News, the success rate of AI is over 50%. This is an average success rate, but the actual number depends on the quality of the seed. Fresh semen is essentially the best. When a skilled and experienced breeder performs the procedure, the success rate is around 80%. This drops to 59% – 80% when the seed is refrigerated and 52% – 60% when it is frozen. Storing semen can affect sperm viability and ultimately the breeding outcome. Frozen semen is processed before being mixed with a preservative and then frozen with liquid nitrogen. This process can greatly affect its quality.

With AI, timing is everything. The fertile window period is rather narrow. You only have a few days to breed the dog. For fresh semen, AI is best performed 2 days after ovulation, while frozen semen is administered 3-4 days after ovulation. There are several ways to determine if the dog is ovulating or not. The most common is the progesterone test, which is done every other day to get accurate results.

There are different opinions on how often a dog should be inseminated. According to this study published on PubMed, you get better results with two inseminations than with one insemination. 36 bitches inseminated with frozen semen took part in the study. Some were inseminated once, others twice with an interval of 1-2 days. The average conception rate was 67% with a litter size of 6.4. Animals fertilized once had a conception rate of 64%, and 69% for those fertilized twice.

Revival Animal Health recommends inseminating a dam every other day until the heat season is over. The oestrus period starts four days before ovulation and lasts until three days after ovulation. That gives a total of 7 days of possible breeding. If you do AI every other day, watch 3-4 inseminations at a time.

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How often the dog has to be inseminated depends heavily on the type of insemination. If you are hand-inserting sperm into the dam, you can afford to do the procedure every other day. However, if you go the surgical route, you can only do it once at a time. The surgery involves sedation and cutting open the dog. If you care about the puppy’s well-being, you don’t want to have him undergo more than one invasive procedure. Transcervical insemination is best performed once and includes sedation.

AI is a remarkable breeding technique in the canine world. It can change your world as a grower in so many ways. As long as you stick to the rules, you will have an amazing experience with it.

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Artificial insemination in dogs

Reproduction in dogs can be either planned as part of a breeding program or accidental. In any case, most breeding is successful and results in the birth of healthy puppies. In some dogs, natural breeding is unsuccessful and artificial methods are required.

Artificial insemination (AI) is the process of collecting semen and placing it artificially in the vagina of the susceptible dog. AI is reserved for valuable purebred dogs that cannot conceive naturally due to various problems. In the bitch, an abnormal vulva or vaginal shape, such as B. a narrowing, exclude a coitus. Bitches can also be aggressive towards the intended father and not allow breeding for some reason. In males, a low sex drive, weakness or pain when mounting due to arthritis or prostate disease, or aggression towards the female may lead to the need for artificial insemination.

Another common reason for artificial insemination in breeding programs is the geographic separation of the mother and father. For champion stud dogs, the semen can be frozen and shipped across the country, especially if transporting the bitch to the dog’s territory is not possible.

Semen collection in dogs

For successful insemination, the semen must be collected and properly handled and introduced into the female. Sperm can be used fresh, chilled and used within 24 hours, or frozen. The more the semen is processed, the less likely it is to result in fertilization.

With fresh and chilled semen, the first thing to do is determine if the female is receptive and about to ovulate. After this determination, the semen can be collected by manual stimulation.

The most successful semen collection begins with the introduction of a teaser bitch—a bitch in heat that is not intended to be bred that day—or a bitch with topical pheromone. This increases the success of the stimulation and leads to a higher quality of semen. However, teasers are not required and the collection can be done without them.

If a teaser is used, the male is allowed to sniff around the back area and mount the female. The bitch should be muzzled and tied tightly. Once the bitch is mounted, the person collecting the semen grasps the penis firmly through the foreskin (vagina) and begins a quick massage. If a teaser is not used, the person collecting the semen begins the process by grasping the penis and beginning the massage.

The rest of the procedure is the same. The penis must not enter the teaser vagina. When the penis is erect, the foreskin is pushed back and a preformed rubber collection cone with attached collection tube is slipped over the penis. The penis and collecting cone are held firmly in place with the collector’s hands, stimulating the female’s contraction during normal breeding.

Ejaculation occurs in 3 parts. The first part is a small amount of clean liquid that does not contain sperm. The next part is the sperm-rich cloudy liquid. Typically, vigorous thrusting is associated with this part of ejaculation, resulting in 0.5 to 3 ml of semen. The final phase of ejaculation is the addition of clear prostatic fluid. If the ejaculate is to be used immediately, the prostatic fluid is allowed to mix with the remaining semen. If the semen is stored for a longer period of time, the collection cone is removed as soon as the prostate fluid begins to drain. The presence of prostatic fluid in stored semen leads to decreased sperm motility and reduced fertility.

The amount of semen required to have the best chance of successful fertilization depends on the size of the female.

Bitches under 5 kg require 1.5 to 3 ml of semen per insemination.

For bitches from 10 to 50 pounds (5 to 25 kg), 3 to 5 ml of semen is required.

For bitches over 25 kg, 5 to 8 ml of semen are required. After semen collection, a semen extender can be added to nourish the semen and achieve the required amount of semen. For samples to be used within 24 hours but not immediately, a stretching liquid is added to protect and nourish the sperm. This sample is then refrigerated and must be used within 24 hours. For samples destined for freezing, a different type of extension is added to protect the sperm from the effects of freezing. After the removal cone is carefully removed from the erect penis, ensure that the penis returns to its normal size and is reinserted into the foreskin. Before insemination, the semen must be examined for quality. Over 70 percent of the sperm must have normal forward motility, which equates to 150 to 200,000 normal-appearing sperm per sample.

Bitch preparing for artificial insemination

Knowing exactly when to inseminate the female can be quite tricky and if not done correctly, fertilization will not occur. In traditional natural mating breeding programs, the bitch is mated at least three times on days 9, 11, and 13 after the vulva begins to swell and bloody discharge is seen. On average, bitches tend to ovulate on the 12th day after the onset of vulvar swelling. Unfortunately, this is not always the case and some female dogs may require alternative methods of conceiving. The breeding goal is to inseminate the bitch four days before ovulation and then every two days until the final insemination two days after ovulation. Insemination two days after ovulation results in the maximum litter size.

Determining ovulation can be done in a number of ways. Traditionally, tissue cells of the vagina are examined under a microscope. The appearance of these cells can be used to estimate the time of ovulation. Unfortunately, this is not the most accurate way to determine ovulation.

Measuring progesterone levels is much more accurate, but time consuming and daily monitoring during the oestrus cycle is not always practical or affordable. The hormone progesterone can be measured in the blood. The most accurate measurements can effectively predict ovulation, but these tests are done in a lab. A hospital version of the progesterone level test is available which can give the user a rough idea of ​​when ovulation will occur.

A combination of the two methods has a pretty good success rate. About 4 to 5 days after the onset of vulva swelling and bloody discharge, the cells of the vagina should be examined daily. Once 80 percent of these cells have the typical keratinized appearance, indicating that ovulation is imminent, blood samples are taken every 2 to 3 days to measure progesterone levels. If the number of inseminations is not limited, then the first insemination is carried out at this time. If only one insemination is possible, this should take place 2 days after ovulation.

A further evaluation of the vaginal cells is no longer necessary. Blood samples should be checked for progesterone levels every 2 to 3 days and fertilization will take place. Once progesterone levels reach ovulation levels, a final insemination occurs 2 days later. The pregnancy can then be confirmed with an ultrasound about 25 days later.

Progesterone levels can be determined either by a laboratory or by an in-hospital test kit. The laboratory can provide specific values ​​for progesterone levels. The in-hospital test kit can show progesterone levels by color changes.

In laboratory tests, serum progesterone is typically below 1 ng/ml up to 2 days before ovulation. At this point, progesterone levels rise to 1 to 2 ng/ml. On the following day (one day before ovulation), the progesterone level is 2 to 4 ng/ml. On the day of ovulation, progesterone is 4 to 10 ng/ml. After ovulation, progesterone levels rise rapidly and can range from 15 to 90 ng/ml.

For the in-hospital test, there are sample color changes that can help give an approximate indication of where the dog is in the ovulation process.

Process of dog insemination

Insemination is similar for fresh and chilled semen, but slightly different for frozen semen. This is due to the lifespan of the seed once processed. Frozen semen can only be kept for a few hours after thawing and insemination. Chilled semen lives in the bitch for about 5 days and fresh semen for about 6 days. Because frozen sperm has such a short lifespan, there must be an ovum ready for fertilization at the time of fertilization for fertilization to occur.

After preparation, the semen can be deposited either in the vagina just in front of the cervix or directly in the uterus. Samples that are placed just in front of the cervix achieve the best results.

Delivering semen to the correct area of ​​the reproductive tract requires special equipment. Long pipettes are recommended. Commercially made canine insemination pipettes are available for small and medium-sized dogs. For large breed dogs, these pipettes are too short, so modified pipettes used on cattle are often used. Some people opt for balloon catheters, but the eyedropper is the most commonly used.

To start the fertilization process, the male should not be close to the female. Hold the bitch in a standing position. Draw the appropriate amount of semen into a sterile syringe and attach it to the appropriate pipette. The dropper is then inserted into the upper vagina through a gloved, lubricated finger inserted into the vaginal canal. After positioning, the seed is deposited. The syringe is then filled with air, which is used to inject any remaining semen left in the dropper after the syringe was squeezed the first time. The eyedropper is then removed, but the finger is not. The vaginal wall is stimulated for a few minutes with the inserted finger. This should cause the vagina to contract, which will help push the semen into the uterus. After stimulation, the finger is removed. At this point, the dog’s rear end is raised for 5 to 10 minutes. Don’t press on your stomach. Lift the dog by grabbing the bottom hind legs and lifting up. Don’t let the dog crouch. After being elevated for 5 to 10 minutes, she can walk around but not urinate or jump for 30 to 60 minutes. After an hour, she can return to her normal activity.

In selected cases, surgical insemination can also be performed. After the uterus is surgically exposed, the semen sample is inserted into the uterus using a needle and syringe. This is not the most effective method of insemination, but may be necessary in high value dogs where puppies are in high demand.

Results of AI in dogs

With natural breeding (assuming 3 broods in a heat cycle), the pregnancy success rate is 80 to 95 percent.

When inseminated with fresh semen, 62 to 100 percent success rate

59 to 80 percent success rate for AI with chilled sperm

In artificial insemination using frozen sperm placed in the vagina, 52 to 60 percent success rate

For AI with frozen sperm placed in the uterus, success rate from 0 to 80 percent

When it comes to breeding dogs, timing is everything. Whether you are planning your dog’s first pregnancy or planning a breeding event, you will be putting a lot of energy into timing.

Breeding your female and male male at the right age is essential for a successful and healthy mating. Age determines when a dog is fertile, but just because a dog is fertile doesn’t mean they’re ready to breed.

Breeding females and males too late, however, can result in smaller litters and unhealthier puppies.

In this article, we’ll help you figure out what age is best for breeding your dog.

Best age to breed bitches

The best age to breed a bitch depends largely on her breed. Some breeds are ready to be bred earlier than others. Typically, smaller dogs can be bred earlier than larger dogs. The quicker a breed reaches adult size, the sooner they are ready for breeding.

Females should be bred later than males. They have to carry a litter and care for the pups, which is a much greater burden than what the males have to deal with.

Females should be bred after they reach adult size. Most come into heat before they are fully grown, which technically makes them fertile. However, if they are reared too young, their nutritional requirements are significantly higher and problems are more likely.

You want your female dog to be fully grown before attempting to carry and give birth to puppies.

Most breeders recommend waiting until the female is at least 18 months old before breeding. Most breeds are fully grown by this point, which limits the chance of complications.

However, many very small breeds can be bred after a year. Shih Tzus and similar small dogs often reach their full size at around 6-9 months. At one year old, these breeds are more than ready for their first litter.

Extremely large dogs may have to wait until 2 years of age. Again, you want your dog to be fully grown before breeding. Whenever that is for your dog, he is ready to breed.

Most women experience a sharp decline in fertility after the age of 5. This depends in part on the breed. Larger dogs usually experience declines earlier than younger dogs, who also have much longer lifespans.

Typically, there are signs of a decline in fertility. A lower number of puppies in a litter is a clear sign that the bitch’s fertility is declining. Sometimes their heat cycles decrease in number.

Best age to breed a male

When deciding when to breed a male, things are a lot simpler. You don’t have to worry as much about the potential health risks for the male as he is not the one actually carrying the litter.

Males usually reach sexual maturity before their female counterparts. Smaller breeds can become sexually mature at around 5 months. However, very large breeds sometimes do not reach sexual maturity until around 2 years of age.

As with females, race also plays an important role in males.

Once a male has reached sexual maturity, you can technically mate him any day of the week. However, this is not recommended as there is such a thing as too many puppies. If a male sires most of the puppies, there can be problems later when it comes to finding mates for those puppies.

Males should be healthy before breeding as this will affect their fertility. Our dogs are what they eat, so it’s important to feed your male dog extremely high-quality food.

While most males reach sexual maturity fairly early, they may not reach peak fertility until several months later. Your body usually needs a little time to understand things. Most males reach maximum maturity at around 1 year of age.

Male dogs remain fertile for the rest of their lives. They often don’t experience a decline in fertility like most female dogs, although there comes a point in their lifespan when they just can’t perform as well.

At a very old age, a dog’s sperm mobility and viability can be impaired. These factors can reduce his ability to fertilize eggs even if he is still able to complete the mating.

Age-related diseases such as arthritis can also affect a male’s ability to reproduce.

Larger dogs usually have this decline earlier. They have shorter lifespans and usually develop health problems before smaller dogs. Therefore, smaller breeds can often breed longer than older breeds.

At what age is it safe to breed a female dog?

It is usually safest to wait and breed a bitch when she is fully grown. This not only ensures that nutrients are not being distracted from her growth, but also ensures that she is large enough to safely give birth to the puppies.

At what age your female dog will be fully grown depends largely on her breed. Larger dogs usually take longer to grow. They have to gain more weight than their smaller counterparts.

Smaller dogs reach their full size in as little as 9 months. For smaller dogs, however, it’s often best to wait at least a year, as they may need a little more time to gain additional fat and muscle mass.

For larger dogs, consider waiting up to 2 years to breed. For extremely large dogs, you may have to wait even longer. Talk to your veterinarian about the exact age at which it’s safe to breed your dog. Often this depends on your dog’s growth rate.

You should avoid breeding a dog after around 8 or 9 years of age. At this point, all dogs are far too old to breed. However, you should also keep your dog’s specific body condition in mind. Some dogs must stop breeding long before that.

Final Thoughts

Both males and females should not be bred until they have reached their full size. Until then, they are not physically equipped to reproduce. Men often don’t develop peak fertility for some time after they technically reach physical maturity. Early litters can potentially stunt a female’s growth and should be avoided.

You should speak to your veterinarian to give your dog a full health exam before attempting to breed them. Most importantly, this will help prevent early breeding that could potentially harm your wife.

In men, there is often less to worry about. You don’t have to carry or hand over the puppies. However, they should also be given a full health certificate to prevent disease transmission during breeding.

Selected image source: Pixabay

Breeding your dog for the first time can be a daunting task, especially when you have no one to look after you. There are so many questions that new dog breeders have about dog breeding, so we’ll try to answer them right here.

Every breed of dog has their own schedule when it comes to pregnancy and cycles; therefore it is almost impossible to give exact answers using dates, for example. Small breeds tend to come into heat more often, while giant breeds divide that number by three or four. The same goes for life expectancy, while some breeds have it fixed at around 8 years, many others double it.

Some answers are intentionally short but with a link to read more. We focused on providing first-time dog breeding information.

How old does a dog have to be to breed?

This is a tough question because if you do it too soon, the bitch will most likely become stressed, and it can be difficult to know when it’s too soon. As a rule of thumb, a responsible breeder must wait until their bitch is at least 18 months old to begin breeding.

Never breed her on her very first or second heat as she is not fully fertile yet.

How old is too old to breed your dog?

The age limit for breeding a dog depends on the sex of the dog.

A bitch’s fertility decreases sharply from the age of 5, as her body is slightly less able to handle a full pregnancy and nursing the born litter. Unlike women, female dogs don’t go through menopause, so they never really stop their cycles. Instead, the regularity of her oestrus cycle (heat) changes and instead of four times a year it goes down to once or twice a year. The female is technically still fertile, but much less so than when she was in her prime. It will prove very difficult to get her pregnant and even if you do, the risk of stillborn puppies increases while the number of puppies decreases sharply.

A man’s age is less relevant as they can’t reproduce until much later in life; However, they face the same problem as their female counterparts. As they get older, their sperm become weaker and once they enter the senior phase they tend to fail most bonds.

What does primetime mean in dog breeding?

The best time to talk about dog breeding is the few years from about 18 months of age until their puppies start to dwindle in numbers, usually around 5 or 6 years old.

This is the best time to breed a female dog as her fertility is at an all time high thanks to high levels of progesterone. Her body can also cope with the strenuous pregnancy and the exhausting birth of the puppies with subsequent breastfeeding. A female dog pregnant for the first time will inevitably struggle a bit, but she will get better at it over time.

On what day of estrus should my bitch be mated?

Around 11 to 13 days after the bleeding begins, the female should be ready to mate. You can usually find that the bleeding has faded to a more pink color, but this is not always the case.

The best way to find out is to get both dogs together and see if your mother is in the first or second stage of her estrus cycle:

In the first phase of your bitch’s heat, she will be aggressive towards the male and will not let any stallion approach her. In the second phase, the bitch becomes much more receptive and flirtatious with the stallion

In the second phase, you should be able to see the female wagging her tail and the male trying to mount it. let her do it

Otherwise, you can visit your vet on their first day in heat and they will be able to schedule progesterone blood tests on days 9 through 11 to tell you when is the best moment for mating. This is the best option when using artificial insemination.

What is a tie in dog breeding?

If you bring your two dogs together, they will eventually mate when the female is ready and receptive. The breeding or mating process can be lengthy and follows several steps, one of which is bonding. It’s also the one people expect the least and fear the most.

First the stud will mount the mother and penetrate her. Once the male’s penis is properly inserted, he flips over to begin breeding bonding.

Both bottoms are touching and this position is often very uncomfortable for both partners. The tie only stops when the man’s penis has swollen.

The part that worries most new breeders is that breed bonding can last for several tens of minutes during which the bitch may want to run away. This would be disastrous as the dam would end up dragging the male with it and it would cause serious damage to either one.

This rarely happens as nature made everything good, but be aware that it can happen and you should definitely be around to reassure your pooch if she seems to be getting anxious. Don’t intervene when everything is going according to plan; only approach them when there is a high risk of injury.

You can find out how coitus develops between two dogs on our dog breed timeline.

How long is a bitch’s pregnancy?

The gestation period in dogs lasts between 58 and 68 days, with an average of 63 days, or about two months. Breed, size and type of your bitch does not matter; Your bitch should still give birth to her litter within the above time frame.

Of course, a vet should monitor your bitch’s pregnancy just to know how many puppies she is carrying and to make sure she is coping perfectly with her pregnancy. Just before delivery day, your bitch will suddenly drop her rectal temperature, which will be a sign of impending labour.

How many puppies could my dog ​​have?

The puppy litter size is mainly defined by the size of the dog:

Pomeranians have an average of 1 to 4 puppies per litter

Border Terriers have an average of 2 to 8 puppies per litter

Boxers have an average of between 5 and 8 puppies per litter

Bull Mastiffs average between 5 and 13 puppies per litter

As you can see each breed has an average pup count which is given as a range as other factors will determine which end of this spectrum it will lean towards.

We’ve written a comprehensive article on what influences a puppy’s litter size, but in short, here are the main factors to consider besides the dog’s size:

Inbreeding coefficient – ​​a high inbreeding coefficient significantly reduces litter size

— a high inbreeding coefficient significantly reduces the litter size. Age of dogs — the quality of sperm decreases with age, as does the bitch’s fertility

— Sperm quality decreases with age, as does the bitch’s fertility. Maternal Health — A weak bitch will not be able to handle many puppies

– a weak bitch will not be able to handle many puppies Diet of the Dam – Studies show that a high protein diet often increases litter size

– Study shows high-protein diet often increases litter size. Gene pool size – Limited gene pools are known to produce smaller litters

The number of puppies in any given litter is difficult to predict and almost impossible to influence. Science hasn’t yet found the tools to allow breeders to decide how many puppies to end up in the next litter; And that’s good.

Do I need a throwing kit?

Once your vet has confirmed your bitch’s pregnancy, you need to prepare a comprehensive puppy kit. This type of tool kit allows you to support and help your dog towards the end of her pregnancy, during labour, delivery and while she is nursing her puppies.

There are a few ready-to-use throw kits available on Amazon that will usually suffice for most people. Some experienced breeders prefer to construct their own litter kit, which usually includes round-tipped scissors, dental floss, forceps, a thermometer, ribbons, and more. For a full list, see our DIY litter kit article.

Along with a whelping kit, a breeder must prepare a tight, quiet, warm space for the bitch to rest and nurse her puppies. This is called the whelping box and we also wrote an in-depth article about it.

Credit to DailyMail/AP for selected images.

ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION Introduction Artificial insemination is the technique of collecting semen containing live sperm from the male and inserting it into the female reproductive tract at the right time with the help of instruments. This has been found to result in normal offspring. In this process, the semen is fertilized into the female by introducing part of it into the cervix or womb either in collected or diluted form by mechanical methods at the right time and under the most hygienic conditions. The first scientific research into artificial insemination of domestic animals was conducted on dogs in 1780 by the Italian scientist Lazanno Spalbanzani. His experiments proved that the power of fertilization resides in the sperm and not in the liquid part of the semen. A few more studies under research station conditions brought this technique to commercial use around the world, including India. Artificial insemination is not just a novel method to induce fertilization in females. Instead, it’s a powerful tool that’s primarily used to improve livestock farming. In artificial insemination, the germ plasm of bulls of the highest quality can be used effectively with the least regard for their location in distant places. The introduction of artificial insemination would result in a significant reduction in both genital and non-genital diseases in agricultural herds. HEAT SYMPTOMS The various heat symptoms are The animal becomes agitated. The animal will become restless and nervous.

The animal will be below the frequency.

The animal will reduce feed intake.

A peculiar movement of the limbosacral region is observed.

Animals in heat lick other animals and smell other animals.

The animals will try to mount other animals

The animals stop when other animals try to mount. This period is called standing heat. This extends over 14-16 hours.

Frequent maturation (urination) is observed.

There is a clear discharge of mucus from the vulva, sometimes it is a thread, as if the mucus sticks near the past of the valva.

Swelling of the valva will be seen.

11 congestion and hyperemia of the membrane.

The tail is in a raised position.

Milk production will decrease slightly.

On palpation, the uterus is swollen and the cervix is ​​opened. AI ADVANTAGES – DISADVANTAGES Pros and cons: In artificial insemination (AI), semen is introduced into the female genital tract using instruments. ADVANTAGES OF ARTIFICIAL INFERTION: Artificial insemination has several advantages over natural mating or insemination. There is no need to mistake a breeding bull for a herd; therefore, the cost of maintaining the breeding bull is saved.

It prevents the spread of certain diseases and infertility due to genital diseases.

Eg: contagious abortion, vibriosis.

Regularly examining semen after collection and checking fertility frequently will ensure early detection of inner males and better breeding efficiency.

Progeny screening can be done at an early age.

The seed of a desired size can also be used after the death of that particular father.

The collected seed can be taken to urban or rural areas for fertilization.

7 It allows animals with large size differences to be mated without injuring either animal.

It is helpful to inseminate those animals that refuse to stand or accept the male at the time of estrus.

It helps in maintaining accurate breeding and crowing records.

It increases conception rate.

It helps in better recording.

Old, heavy and injured bulls can be used. AI Cons: Requires well-trained operations and specialized equipment.

Requires more time than natural services.

Requires knowledge of the structure and function of the reproduction on the part of the operator.

Improper cleaning of instruments and hygiene conditions can lead to reduced fertility.

If the bull is not tested properly, the spread of genital diseases will be increased.

The market for bulls is reduced while that for superior bulls is increased. METHODS AND EVALUATION OF SEED COLLECTION: Various methods of seed collection have been developed from time to time. The older unsatisfactory methods were gradually replaced by the new modern techniques. There are three common methods. Using an artificial vagina By electrostimulation method. By massaging the ampoules of the duct, differences are achieved through the rectal wall. The ideal method of obtaining semen is to use an artificial vagina, which is safe for both the father and the collector. ARTIFICIAL VAGINA METHOD The artificial vagina has the following parts: A heavy hard rubber 2 inches loose, open at both ends with a nozzle for air and water in and out.

Rubber inner shell or rubber lining.

The seed pick-up cone or rubber cone.

Glass or plastic semen collection tubes graduated in cc and correct fraction to 0.1 cc

Insulation bag Before using for semen collection, all parts are thoroughly washed and professionally sterilized and assembled as an artificial vagina, the rubber liner is inserted into the tube; Turn both ends inside out by folding back both side openings and securing with elastic bands. Now the space between the hard rubber tube and the inner rubber liner forms a watertight compartment. The nozzle at one end of the hose can be attached. ARTIFICIAL VAGINA PARTS Rotate up or down through the threaded nut. The water jacket of the artificial vagina is filled with hot water at a temperature of 45°C (113°F) by opening the nozzle. The graduated semen collection tube attaches to the narrow end of the artificial vagina tube and secures with an elastic band. The inside of the rubber liner on the front of the artificial vagina is smeared with sterile jelly to a length of 3 to 4 inches. Air is blown through the nozzle into the water jacket to create pressure in it, and the same is applied linearly to the rubber to simulate the natural vagina. The temperature of the artificial vagina must be checked each time it is removed and should simulate the natural vagina when it is inserted. If the artificial vagina is to be mounted later. If it is too cold, ejaculate may not be there after a thrust, or even if ejaculate is there; it can become contaminated with urine and become unusable. METHOD OF SPERM COLLECTION. (A.V.) The cow or dummy is saved in the service creation. The assembled artificial vagina is held at a 45° angle to the direction of the penis and the thrust is this angle. The artificial vagina is held with the left hand by a right-handed person; and when the bull mounts the cow, the bull’s vagina is graphed by the operator, guiding the glandular penis into the artificial vagina, and then the bull gives a thrust to ejaculate. The surgeon should be careful not to touch the exposed past of the penis. After the bull dismounts, the artificial vagina is detached from the penis and the vent is opened to depressurize the jacket. The water from the jacket is also drained by opening the nozzle. This allows the ejaculate to flow from the cone to the semen collection tube. The semen collection tube is detached from the cone, sealed with cotton and taken to the laboratory for testing. The rubber cone and semen collection tube can be protected from external pollution or heat or higher by covering with a zippered insulated bag.

Semen Collection SPERM STORAGE The discovery that bull semen can be successfully frozen and stored indefinitely revolutionized AI in cattle. In 1949, British scientists discovered that adding glycerin to semen extender improved sperm resistance to freezing. Glycerin removes water from sperm before freezing and prevents the formation of cellular ice crystals that would damage sperm. There are two methods of freezing and storing sperm: dry ice and alcohol (-100 degrees F) and liquid nitrogen (-320 degrees F). Liquid nitrogen is preferred as there is no evidence of deterioration in fertility with age. Fertility gradually decreases in sperm stored in dry ice alcohol. Frozen semen can be stored indefinitely if the correct temperature is maintained. A recent report reported a calf born from frozen semen that had been stored for 16 years. Fresh, liquid semen can be successfully stored at 40 degrees F for 1 to 4 days. Seed is usually stored in glass ampoules. Other methods seem promising, notably French straw. Several AI organizations have chosen this method exclusively. Artificial colors are often added to semen extenders to distinguish one breed from another. Full bull identification is required on each individual semen container. METHODS OF INSEMINATION There are different methods of insemination in different animal species i.e. speculum method, vaginal method and recto-vaginal method. Insemination RECTO-VAGINAL METHOD In cattle, the “recto-vaginal insemination method” is the safest and best insemination method. A cow in heat is well controlled when placed in a Travis. The inseminator gets ready by wearing a plastic apron, rubber boots and gloves. The straw, after thawing (holding the straw in warm water for one minute to convert the frozen semen to liquid and motile sperm), is placed in a sterilized A.I. rubber and is covered with a plastic sleeve. The inseminator, after applying the soft soap or other lubricant to the glove and placing the animal on its back, inserts the gloved left hand into the rectum, and the hand is further inserted, holding the cervix through the rectal wall. The A.I. gum loaded with seed straw is passed. Recto-vaginal insemination method Through the vulva to the vagina and cervix and with the hand in the rectum, watch the A. I rubber reach the cervix, then the semen is deposited by injecting the gun, and after the semen is deposited, the gun is removed , the empty straw and the sheath are disordered. SPECTRUM METHOD In this method, a spectrum is placed in the cow’s vagina, which provides a passageway to the outside to the insemination site, then the insemination tube is passed through the speculum and the semen is deposited in the cervical insemination method. VAGINAL METHOD The hand is inserted through the vagina and the insemination tube is moved by hand to the insemination site and the semen is released. There is a risk of contamination and injury to female genitals. FROZEN SPERM AND STORAGE Freezing of semen for successful long-term preservation of sperm is of great importance in livestock breeding and farm management. It has made it possible to make available the use of excellently proven sizes for a larger number of cows covering a larger area, the shipment of frozen semen has become possible to different continents of the world to any place connected to any service . Today, if the farmer wants to use an excellent size for inheriting high milk production, he can opt for the frozen semen service, as long as his area covered by artificial insemination is provided with frozen semen. Currently, frozen semen is used in most states of India. The technique of semen preservation in straws was developed in France. Freezing seeds is carried out using a special diluent, which has the following composition.

Sodium Citrate Dihydrate (Square) 2.4J. 2.0g 8.0ml 25.0% Vol 50,000 Units per 100ml Sperm Fructose Glycerol Egg Yolk Penicillin Diluent. Dihydro-streptomycin 50.0 mg per 0.100 ml semen extender. Distilled water double glass distilled 100.Om1. The addition of glycerin to the diluent makes the cells more resistant to the harshness of freezing and ice crystals that form are smaller and smoother, causing less damage to sperm. The addition of fructose to the diluent improves sperm resistance to glycerol; and also provides food. Frozen semen is packed at +5°C in single-dose glass vials or plastic straws. The final glycerin content during the freezing process should be 7.0 to 7.6%. The antibiotics are added to inhibit bacteria and kill pathetic organisms. Dilute the semen so that one ml of expanded semen contains 20 million motile sperm. The semen must be carefully chilled to keep sperm alive. The final temperature is lowered to -79°C or even lower. Rapid freezing takes place for a period of 3 to 5 minutes to -75 °C using an atmosphere created by liquid nitrogen. The slow freezing technique involves cooling from +5 °C to -15 °C at a rate of 1 °C per minute. From -15°C to -31°C at a rate of 2°C per minute. From -31°C to 75°C at a speed of 4 to 5°C per minute. Thus, a further cool down to -96°C in a total of 40 minutes can be performed quickly as this is not critical after freezing. Before freezing, the diluted semen is allowed to equilibrate for 3 to 5 hours, or preferably 16 to 20 hours in a refrigerator at 5 °C. Frozen semen facilitates percentage use of the diluted and frozen semen, reducing the delivery price, and it can be delivered to the inseminators months apart, as opposed to the delivery of liquid semen every day or every other day. Liquid nitrogen plays an important role in storing the frozen straws of seeds at a temperature of -196 °C for a long period of time. (Source: http://bieap.gov.in/DairyAnimalManagementTheory.pdf ) Artificial Insemination (AI) of Cattle Artificial insemination (AI) is the process of collecting sperm cells from a male animal and manually introducing them into the reproductive tract of a female . One can cite a number of potential benefits from the use of artificial insemination. Increased Bull Utilization Efficiency During natural breeding, a male will deposit far more sperm than is theoretically needed to induce pregnancy. In addition, natural breeding is physically demanding. Both factors limit the number of natural matings a male can make. However, the collected semen can be diluted and lengthened to create hundreds of doses from a single ejaculate. Sperm can also be transported easily; This allows multiple females in different geographic locations to be inseminated simultaneously, and the semen can be stored for long periods of time, meaning males can continue producing offspring long after their natural reproductive lives have ended. Increased Potential for Genetic Selection Because artificial insemination allows males to produce more offspring, fewer males are needed. Therefore, only the few best males can be selected as parents, which increases the selection intensity. Also, because males can have more offspring, their offspring can be used in an offspring testing program to more accurately determine the genetic value of the male. Finally, individual farmers can use artificial insemination to increase the genetic pool to which their animals can be mated, potentially reducing the effects of inbreeding. Lower costs Males often grow larger than females and can consume relatively larger amounts of food. In addition, male animals are often stronger, more powerful and possibly naughtier and thus require special housing and handling equipment. Increased safety for animals and farmers As already mentioned, male animals can become large and aggressive. These factors mean that keeping a bull on a farm can be dangerous. Due to the relatively larger size of adult males than females, natural mating is also more likely to result in accidents and injuries to the cow or bull than artificial insemination. Reduced Transmission of Diseases Natural mating allows transmission of venereal diseases between males and females. Some pathogens can be transmitted in semen by artificial insemination, but the collection process allows for pathogen screening. The semen collected is also routinely checked for quality, which can help prevent problems associated with male infertility.

However, artificial insemination has some potential downsides that need to be considered. First, it can be more tedious. Male animals instinctively recognize females who are in the right status for conception. In the case of artificial insemination, the identification work is the responsibility of the farmer. Poor detection leads to reduced fertility rates. Also, increasing the number of offspring per male only has selective advantages if the best males can be pinpointed. Otherwise, this process only reduces genetic variability in a population. Increasing the number of offspring per male always decreases the gene pool. The benefits of more intense selection must be weighed against the negative effects of less variation. (Source: www.naweb.iaea.org) ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION TECHNIQUES The technique of inseminating a cow is a skill that requires proper knowledge, experience and patience. Improper AI techniques can thwart all other efforts to conceive. The semen must be deposited at the best place and time in the cow’s tract to achieve acceptable fertilization rates. Early methods of AI involved depositing the semen in the vagina, as would be the case with natural mating. These methods are not satisfactory. Fertility is low and a larger number of sperm is needed. Another method that gained popularity was the “speculum” method. This method is easy to learn, but requires proper cleaning and sterilization of equipment, making insemination more impractical than the rectovaginal technique, which is the most widely used AI method today.

In the recto-vaginal technique, a sterile, disposable catheter containing thawed semen is inserted into the vagina and then passed down the rectum into the cervix with a gloved hand. The insemination catheter is inserted into the uterus through the spiral folds of the cow’s cervix. Some of the semen is deposited directly in the uterus and the rest in the cervix when the catheter is withdrawn. The ejection of semen should be slow and deliberate to avoid excessive sperm loss in the catheter. The body of the uterus is short; Therefore, care should be taken not to penetrate too deeply, which could result in injury. In previously fertilized animals, the catheter should not be forcibly inserted through the cervix as pregnancy is possible. Because research data shows little variation in conception rates when semen is placed in the cervix, uterine body, or cervical horns, some people suggest incomplete penetration of the cervical canal and deposition of semen in the cervix. The recto-vaginal technique is more difficult to learn and practice is essential to acceptable proficiency, but the advantages make this method of insemination more desirable than other known methods. With practice, the skilled technician soon learns to thread the cervix over the catheter with ease. If single-use catheters are used and proper hygiene practices are followed, there is little chance of transmission of infection from one cow to another. Timing of Insemination for Maximum Conception A common question about AI is: At what time during heat should cows be bred for the greatest chance of conception? Since estrus can last from 10 to 25 hours, there is considerable latitude in the possible timing of fertilization. Much research work has been done on this topic. Controlled studies were conducted by Trim Berger and Davis in Nebraska in 1943. This and other studies show that conception rates are lower when cows are bred before mid-oestrus or later than 6 hours after oestrus has ended (standing heat in this case). Maximum conception is achieved when cows are inseminated between mid heat and the end of standing heat, with good results up to 6 hours after heat.

Success at insemination timing depends on a good heat detection program. In large herds this means assigning individual responsibility for heat detection and a training program for work. A successful heat detection program and subsequent correct timing of insemination will pay dividends in increasing reproductive efficiency. A practical recommendation for timing of insemination Cows in heat Should be inseminated Tool late for good results Morning Same day Next day Afternoon Next day morning or early afternoon After 3pm (source: www.world-agriculture.com)

How to perform artificial insemination with fresh semen?

Wendy Adams

Artificial insemination can provide many benefits for breeding in both dogs and other species. It allows the use of semen from stud dogs around the world without the need to transport the dogs, opening up the possibilities for genetic diversity within a breed. The techniques required to perform insemination are complex but an invaluable tool in the breeding world.

September 25, 2018 by OVRS staff

The normal pup litter size usually varies between one and twelve. The world record according to Guinness is a whopping 24 puppies born to a Neapolitan Mastiff in the UK in 2004. Why does litter size vary so much and what determines litter size in puppies? OVRS examines the main factors affecting litter size.

Does breed determine a dog’s litter size?

Dog breed is the most important determinant of litter size. In general, large dogs have larger litters because they are biologically capable of carrying more puppies safely.

Here are some breeds and their estimated litter sizes:

Bullmastiff – 5-13

Labrador retrievers – 5-10

German Shepherd – 5-9

American Cocker Spaniel – 3-7

Yorkie and Chihuahua – 2-5

While the norm is for larger dogs to have larger litters, this is not always the case. For example, the Pekingese, which weighs only 7 to 14 pounds, can give birth to up to 10 puppies.

Large litters can be dangerous for the mother dog (mother) due to birthing problems, especially in smaller dogs. Some of the pups may be stillborn and the mother may be exhausted during birth.

Can humans affect a dog’s litter size?

Reputable breeders will want more puppies when they have a number of people who want them. Dog owners may want more bundles of squirming puppy joy from their canine companion. Humans have control over certain aspects of when and how a bitch is bred that can affect litter size, but there are limits.

Artificially inseminated dams produce smaller litters than naturally inseminated ones. This is likely due to more sperm dying during collection and fertilization.

Another key factor affecting size is when a mother gives birth to a litter of puppies. According to the American Kennel Club, litters born in the spring are generally larger than litters born at other times of the year.

Are there other ways to affect the size of a dog litter?

The age of the dog at breeding plays a key role in litter size. The older the mother, the smaller the litter, especially in larger breeds. Mothers bred between the ages of 2 and 5 typically have the largest litters.

Despite the mother’s age, the first 2 litters are usually smaller than the following ones. According to an article in Royal Canin, 3rd and 4th pregnancies are generally the largest.

The age of the male also plays a role in the litter size. After 5 years, the number and quality of the father’s sperm begin to decline. By 1.5-5 years, there is a greater chance that the sperm will fuse with the mother’s eggs. The most famous champions are usually bred to around 5 years of age.

Do genetics play a role in litter size?

The answer to that is yes and no.

Genetics (other than breed) accounts for approximately 15% in determining litter size. Genetic traits are mainly coat color, eye color and size.

What role does diet play in litter size?

Diet plays a big part in determining the number of puppies in a litter. To maximize the chances of a larger litter, a high-quality, high-protein diet should be consumed year-round. Dams with less than healthy diets, including overweight ones, produce smaller litters.

Finally

A pet parent or breeder can choose their breed, breed them at the optimal time, and feed them highly nutritious meals year-round. But they can’t determine the size of the litter – that’s up to Mother Nature.

things you need. Women in heat

male dog

Artificial Vagina (Dog)

Plastic tube, ¼ inch diameter, as long as the bitch’s hind leg

Medical syringe without a needle

Tips Your local veterinarian can give you more specific information about your breed’s specifications.

Artificial insemination in dogs is common among dog breeders trying to contribute other traits to their breeds. A male is selected for his personality, intelligence, and ability to produce useful offspring and is mated with females, who are normally capable of breeding. In artificial insemination, semen is collected from a male or stud dog and then fed into the bitch’s reproductive system. This can be done at home or by a veterinarian.

Put the male and female dogs in one room together. Keep the artificial vagina close to the two dogs and let the male try to mount the female. When he starts to rise, the artificial vagina needs to be placed over the male penis to collect the semen.

Stimulating the penis by gently squeezing and creating a pulsating effect with the palm of your hand around the artificial vagina will induce the male dog to ejaculate.

Remove the male dog from the area so he does not attempt to mount the female.

Insert the end of the syringe with the medical syringe without a needle into the artificial vagina to remove the semen. To do this, make sure the plunger is all the way down before inserting the syringe into the artificial vagina. While inside the artificial vagina, slowly pull the plunger outward, which collects the semen in the barrel of the syringe.

Insert the 1.4 inch tube into the bitch’s vagina. The dog’s breed and size will determine how much of the tube should be inserted. For dogs weighing less than 5 pounds, it is best to have a vet perform the procedure. For small breeds like Spitz and Chihuahuas, insert the hose only 2 inches. For larger breeds such as Great Danes and German Shepherds, it is recommended that the hose be inserted only 5 inches.

Insert the syringe into the other end of the tube that will be inserted into the bitch’s vagina. Slowly push the plunger until all of the semen has entered the tube, and hold the tube upright to ensure the fluids are dispensed and not spilled.

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Artificial insemination in dogs

Reproduction in dogs can be either planned as part of a breeding program or accidental. In any case, most breeding is successful and results in the birth of healthy puppies. In some dogs, natural breeding is unsuccessful and artificial methods are required.

Artificial insemination (AI) is the process of collecting semen and placing it artificially in the vagina of the susceptible dog. AI is reserved for valuable purebred dogs that cannot conceive naturally due to various problems. In the bitch, an abnormal vulva or vaginal shape, such as B. a narrowing, exclude a coitus. Bitches can also be aggressive towards the intended father and not allow breeding for some reason. In males, a low sex drive, weakness or pain when mounting due to arthritis or prostate disease, or aggression towards the female may lead to the need for artificial insemination.

Another common reason for artificial insemination in breeding programs is the geographic separation of the mother and father. For champion stud dogs, the semen can be frozen and shipped across the country, especially if transporting the bitch to the dog’s territory is not possible.

Semen collection in dogs

For successful insemination, the semen must be collected and properly handled and introduced into the female. Sperm can be used fresh, chilled and used within 24 hours, or frozen. The more the semen is processed, the less likely it is to result in fertilization.

With fresh and chilled semen, the first thing to do is determine if the female is receptive and about to ovulate. After this determination, the semen can be collected by manual stimulation.

The most successful semen collection begins with the introduction of a teaser bitch—a bitch in heat that is not intended to be bred that day—or a bitch with topical pheromone. This increases the success of the stimulation and leads to a higher quality of semen. However, teasers are not required and the collection can be done without them.

If a teaser is used, the male is allowed to sniff around the back area and mount the female. The bitch should be muzzled and tied tightly. Once the bitch is mounted, the person collecting the semen grasps the penis firmly through the foreskin (vagina) and begins a quick massage. If a teaser is not used, the person collecting the semen begins the process by grasping the penis and beginning the massage.

The rest of the procedure is the same. The penis must not enter the teaser vagina. When the penis is erect, the foreskin is pushed back and a preformed rubber collection cone with attached collection tube is slipped over the penis. The penis and collecting cone are held firmly in place with the collector’s hands, stimulating the female’s contraction during normal breeding.

Ejaculation occurs in 3 parts. The first part is a small amount of clean liquid that does not contain sperm. The next part is the sperm-rich cloudy liquid. Typically, vigorous thrusting is associated with this part of ejaculation, resulting in 0.5 to 3 ml of semen. The final phase of ejaculation is the addition of clear prostatic fluid. If the ejaculate is to be used immediately, the prostatic fluid is allowed to mix with the remaining semen. If the semen is stored for a longer period of time, the collection cone is removed as soon as the prostate fluid begins to drain. The presence of prostatic fluid in stored semen leads to decreased sperm motility and reduced fertility.

The amount of semen required to have the best chance of successful fertilization depends on the size of the female.

Bitches under 5 kg require 1.5 to 3 ml of semen per insemination.

For bitches from 10 to 50 pounds (5 to 25 kg), 3 to 5 ml of semen is required.

For bitches over 25 kg, 5 to 8 ml of semen are required. After semen collection, a semen extender can be added to nourish the semen and achieve the required amount of semen. For samples to be used within 24 hours but not immediately, a stretching liquid is added to protect and nourish the sperm. This sample is then refrigerated and must be used within 24 hours. For samples destined for freezing, a different type of extension is added to protect the sperm from the effects of freezing. After the removal cone is carefully removed from the erect penis, ensure that the penis returns to its normal size and is reinserted into the foreskin. Before insemination, the semen must be examined for quality. Over 70 percent of the sperm must have normal forward motility, which equates to 150 to 200,000 normal-appearing sperm per sample.

Bitch preparing for artificial insemination

Knowing exactly when to inseminate the female can be quite tricky and if not done correctly, fertilization will not occur. In traditional natural mating breeding programs, the bitch is mated at least three times on days 9, 11, and 13 after the vulva begins to swell and bloody discharge is seen. On average, bitches tend to ovulate on the 12th day after the onset of vulvar swelling. Unfortunately, this is not always the case and some female dogs may require alternative methods of conceiving. The breeding goal is to inseminate the bitch four days before ovulation and then every two days until the final insemination two days after ovulation. Insemination two days after ovulation results in the maximum litter size.

Determining ovulation can be done in a number of ways. Traditionally, tissue cells of the vagina are examined under a microscope. The appearance of these cells can be used to estimate the time of ovulation. Unfortunately, this is not the most accurate way to determine ovulation.

Measuring progesterone levels is much more accurate, but time consuming and daily monitoring during the oestrus cycle is not always practical or affordable. The hormone progesterone can be measured in the blood. The most accurate measurements can effectively predict ovulation, but these tests are done in a lab. A hospital version of the progesterone level test is available which can give the user a rough idea of ​​when ovulation will occur.

A combination of the two methods has a pretty good success rate. About 4 to 5 days after the onset of vulva swelling and bloody discharge, the cells of the vagina should be examined daily. Once 80 percent of these cells have the typical keratinized appearance, indicating that ovulation is imminent, blood samples are taken every 2 to 3 days to measure progesterone levels. If the number of inseminations is not limited, then the first insemination is carried out at this time. If only one insemination is possible, this should take place 2 days after ovulation.

A further evaluation of the vaginal cells is no longer necessary. Blood samples should be checked for progesterone levels every 2 to 3 days and fertilization will take place. Once progesterone levels reach ovulation levels, a final insemination occurs 2 days later. The pregnancy can then be confirmed with an ultrasound about 25 days later.

Progesterone levels can be determined either by a laboratory or by an in-hospital test kit. The laboratory can provide specific values ​​for progesterone levels. The in-hospital test kit can show progesterone levels by color changes.

In laboratory tests, serum progesterone is typically below 1 ng/ml up to 2 days before ovulation. At this point, progesterone levels rise to 1 to 2 ng/ml. On the following day (one day before ovulation), the progesterone level is 2 to 4 ng/ml. On the day of ovulation, progesterone is 4 to 10 ng/ml. After ovulation, progesterone levels rise rapidly and can range from 15 to 90 ng/ml.

For the in-hospital test, there are sample color changes that can help give an approximate indication of where the dog is in the ovulation process.

Process of dog insemination

Insemination is similar for fresh and chilled semen, but slightly different for frozen semen. This is due to the lifespan of the seed once processed. Frozen semen can only be kept for a few hours after thawing and insemination. Chilled semen lives in the bitch for about 5 days and fresh semen for about 6 days. Because frozen sperm has such a short lifespan, there must be an ovum ready for fertilization at the time of fertilization for fertilization to occur.

After preparation, the semen can be deposited either in the vagina just in front of the cervix or directly in the uterus. Samples that are placed just in front of the cervix achieve the best results.

Delivering semen to the correct area of ​​the reproductive tract requires special equipment. Long pipettes are recommended. Commercially made canine insemination pipettes are available for small and medium-sized dogs. For large breed dogs, these pipettes are too short, so modified pipettes used on cattle are often used. Some people opt for balloon catheters, but the eyedropper is the most commonly used.

To start the fertilization process, the male should not be close to the female. Hold the bitch in a standing position. Draw the appropriate amount of semen into a sterile syringe and attach it to the appropriate pipette. The dropper is then inserted into the upper vagina through a gloved, lubricated finger inserted into the vaginal canal. After positioning, the seed is deposited. The syringe is then filled with air, which is used to inject any remaining semen left in the dropper after the syringe was squeezed the first time. The eyedropper is then removed, but the finger is not. The vaginal wall is stimulated for a few minutes with the inserted finger. This should cause the vagina to contract, which will help push the semen into the uterus. After stimulation, the finger is removed. At this point, the dog’s rear end is raised for 5 to 10 minutes. Don’t press on your stomach. Lift the dog by grabbing the bottom hind legs and lifting up. Don’t let the dog crouch. After being elevated for 5 to 10 minutes, she can walk around but not urinate or jump for 30 to 60 minutes. After an hour, she can return to her normal activity.

In selected cases, surgical insemination can also be performed. After the uterus is surgically exposed, the semen sample is inserted into the uterus using a needle and syringe. This is not the most effective method of insemination, but may be necessary in high value dogs where puppies are in high demand.

Results of AI in dogs

With natural breeding (assuming 3 broods in a heat cycle), the pregnancy success rate is 80 to 95 percent.

When inseminated with fresh semen, 62 to 100 percent success rate

59 to 80 percent success rate for AI with chilled sperm

In artificial insemination using frozen sperm placed in the vagina, 52 to 60 percent success rate

For AI with frozen sperm placed in the uterus, success rate from 0 to 80 percent

What is IUI?

Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is a simple procedure that involves placing sperm directly into your uterus, bringing healthy sperm closer to your egg.

How does IUI work?

IUI stands for intrauterine insemination. It is also sometimes referred to as donor insemination, alternative insemination, or artificial insemination. IUI works by delivering sperm directly into your uterus around the time of ovulation, which allows the sperm to get closer to your egg. This shortens the time and distance sperm have to travel, making it easier for your egg to be fertilized.

Before insemination, you can take fertility drugs that stimulate ovulation. The semen is collected from your partner or a donor. It goes through a process called “sperm washing,” which extracts a concentrated amount of healthy sperm from the semen.

Then your doctor inserts the sperm directly into your uterus. Pregnancy occurs when sperm fertilize your egg and the fertilized egg implants itself in the lining of the womb.

IUI is a simple and low-tech procedure and can be less expensive than other types of fertility treatments. It increases your chances of getting pregnant, but everyone’s body is different, so there’s no guarantee IUI will work.

What can I expect during the IUI?

Before the IUI, you can take fertility medications to help your eggs mature and get ready for fertilization. Your doctor will perform fertilization during ovulation (when your ovaries release an egg). Sometimes you are given hormones that trigger ovulation. You’ll find out exactly when you’re ovulating and ready for the procedure to maximize your chances of conceiving.

Your partner or donor will collect a semen sample at home or at the doctor’s office. The sperm are prepared for fertilization through a process called “sperm washing,” which draws out a concentrated amount of healthy sperm. Washing the sperm also helps get rid of chemicals in semen that can cause reactions in your uterus and make it harder to get pregnant. When you use donor sperm from a sperm bank, the sperm bank usually sends the already “washed” and IUI-ready sperm to the doctor’s office.

During the IUI procedure, the doctor pushes a thin, flexible tube through your cervix and into your uterus. You use a small syringe to insert the sperm through the tube directly into your uterus. Pregnancy occurs when a sperm fertilizes an egg and the fertilized egg implants in the lining of the womb.

The insemination procedure is performed in the doctor’s office or at a fertility clinic and only takes about 5-10 minutes. It’s pretty quick and you don’t need anesthesia. IUI isn’t usually painful, but some people have mild cramps.

How much does IUI cost?

The cost of IUI depends on what type of insurance coverage you have and what your doctor’s fees are. IUI is usually less expensive than other fertility treatments like IVF. It generally costs around $300 to $1,000 without insurance.

Some states have laws that require health insurance companies to cover some or all of the costs of infertility treatment if you meet certain requirements. However, many insurance plans offer no cost at all for fertility treatment.

For more information on insurance coverage for IVF and other fertility treatments, contact The National Infertility Association.