These values can be used to judge the quality of the thaw before insemination. Any puppies born before 57 days after fertilisation have poor survival rates. However, ovulation takes place in dogs when the estrogen level declines and the progesterone level increases. The surgeon inserts the needle into the lumen of the uterine body at a 45 degree angle with the bevel of the needle up. The interval from the LH surge to parturition is predictably 65+/- 1 days in nearly all canine pregnancies. E) Males with lowered or compromised spermatozoa numbers--little work has been done in the canine to definitively define minimum semen parameters necessary for conception. All rights reserved. Non-bred: mature oocytes still fertile, Bred: 2 cell embryo. If progesterone levels are lower than normal, it may mean that your female dog: Physiologically low progesterone levels are great for determining the optimal timing of a c-section and whelping. However, it is important to realize that intervals of 63 and 67 days have been seen in some normal, uncomplicated pregnancies and should not be considered out of the ordinary. However, the LH surge can occur over a short period of time (12-24 hours) and may be very easy to miss. The bitch is prepared in the same manner as a bitch undergoing an ovarian-hysterectomy. Insemination Progesterone not being species specific, can be tested for by many methods. So, it is required to contact a professional DVM to have the female dog progesterone tested. Fresh chilled semen uses energy as it is cooled to 40 degrees F (4 degrees C) and eventually re-warmed to body temperature. As we have previously mentioned, this is the optimal time for natural breeding. Pre-planned or elective c-sections can probably be performed safely after Day 63 after the LH surge. These progesterone values in the female dog will remain at this level for about 60 days regardless of whether the dog is bred or showing signs of pregnancy. The abdomen is draped in preparation for the surgery. It is also important to combine some or all of the monitoring tools available to achieve the most accurate assessment of ovulation timing. In other words, breeders should look for drastic changes in female dogs behavior such as restlessness, frequent urination, running away, or having low energy levels. Many aspects of canine pregnancy are unique among veterinary domestic species. Natural breeding is always a way to go, but some dog breeds like French Bulldogs require artificial insemination to become pregnant. The shell should be opened and the plug pulled (not twisted) from the nitrogen tank. If the ELISA kits are not handled properly or warmed to room temperature, and artificially high result will be recorded. When measuring the progesterone levels in female dogs, breeders should pay attention to ovulation timing. However, there are no clinical research reports to this effect and special concern for support of the pups is important. If the sample is thawed, the semen will not be viable and a replacement sample should be obtained, if possible. When the insemination rod is properly positioned, the semen should be gently inseminated. Good Dogs Quick Guide to AI (Artificial Insemination) Progesterone testing is a very useful, inexpensive and readily available tool in female dog reproduction. Larger bitches may require an intravenous injection of a standard short acting anesthetic to achieve relaxation for intubation and maintenance with isoflurane (i.e., propofol). Thus, a bitch should begin breeding 2-4 days after the progesterone rises over 2 ng/ml. A technique for surgical insemination in the bitch was first described in 1974. The bitch is positioned with her rear elevated either manually or on a breeding ramp.