We can perform vaginal cytology on female dogs to calculate the stage of estrus. This method involves taking a swab of the vaginal cells and analyzing them under a microscope. Usually, more than one swab is required. Another method we can use is to perform a simple blood test to determine the luteinizing hormone (LH) surge and pinpoint the dog’s fertile period.

Additional tests, including a thyroid analysis, should be performed on your dog before estrus. These tests can rule out any potential problems or alert you to issues that need to be addressed before breeding.

Please call and set up an appointment with one of our veterinarians to discuss how we can further assist you with your breeding program.

AKC has a great website for learning about breeding, check out these articles:

• Whelping & Medical Intervention
• AKC Breeding Basics
• Nutrition & Reproductive Performance

Dr. Cook also has some handouts for you:

• Breeding Tests
• Whelping Guide

Additional tests, including a thyroid analysis, should be performed on your dog before her estrus cycle. These tests can rule out any potential problems or alert you to issues that need to be addressed before breeding.

Please call and set up an appointment with one of our veterinarians to discuss how we can further assist you with your breeding program.

During a c-section, the mother is given an anesthetic. An incision is then made along her abdomen and through the uterus to retrieve unborn puppies or kittens. In some situations, we may recommend that the mother be spayed during this procedure, usually to prevent future problems of this nature.