What else does canine semen analysis examine?
Canine Semen Analysis examines factors such as the history of the dog, his reproductive system, general physical exam, hormonal evaluation, libido determination, assessment of diseases and more. Semen analysis is part of ensuring breeding soundness, which is based on the three distinctive fractions of semen ejaculated by the dog.
The three fractions of canine semen:
Do you know what to catch?
1. Pre-sperm fraction: Slightly cloudy in appearance with a volume of about 0.5 to 2 ml
2. Sperm-rich fraction: Milky in appearance for most normal dogs.
3. Prostatic fraction: Crystal clear fluid in appearance that is ejaculated slowly over a prolonged period.
Usually when aware of this fraction, semen collection stops.
Are you wasting your time?Sometimes it’s best to be safe than sorry
Dog semen analysis is a crucial element of the breeding process. We must analyse semen to ensure as many eggs as possible can be fertilised by the product itself. In most instances with an entire new stud dog, many won’t want to risk the chance of fertility without using a proven stud dog. So we use semen analysis to overcome this issue. Analysing the semen prior to use or in some instances for reassurance immediately before the breeding.
Collecting semen for AI or insemination
The collection of canine semen is performed for breeding soundness exams and artificial insemination. Once the semen is collected, it can be used fresh for insemination. Or, cooled and shipped to another location for insemination on another bitch. It can also be frozen for long-term storage and use on a future date.
How to collect canine semen
All you need to know about collecting canine semen.
Semen collection can be conducted in most male dogs without necessarily having an in-heat teaser bitch. The process is usually easier if the male has already undergone semen collection. However, an in-heat bitch can enhance the procedure and ensure more sperm to harvest.
Utilising arousal to create more sperm
The ideal teaser should be in the oestrus phase, although this may be difficult to achieve considering the length of the canine reproductive cycle. As such, a friendly, non-oestrus bitch usually serves the purposes. The bitch needs to be controlled to ensure that her rear quarters are facing the male.
When an in-heat teaser female is unavailable, an alternative way of stimulating the male is presenting him with a small vaginal swab from an oestrous bitch. Usually, several swabs can be prepared or harvested from an oestrous bitch, frozen, and stored for future use.
Collecting Semen For Analysis
To collect semen from the male, emulate the natural process in the form of a tie. From behind we gently pull back and hold above the knot. This, allowing the male to dispense the semen into a collection bag or container from behind his legs.
Some of the important measures taken include the use of another female to encourage sperm quality. Another important aspect is the handling of the semen to prevent damage to the cells.
Does it seem easy?
Last but not least, if trying this at home you need to remember semen is very delicate. With only a short lifespan, we have to inseminate at the perfect time. Semen has to be handled very carefully and inseminated safely. When we mate, depends on the stage in the canine reproduction cycle. To find out the right stage when to breed your bitch, we highly recommend Progestorone blood testing dogs.
Contact Smart K9 Fertility Clinic to assist you solve all your dog breeding issues. Book in with us today for canine semen collection and semen analysis. Ensure you have the right stud dog to produce a quality litter of puppies. We will find out if you are wasting your time and money.
Prices for canine
semen analysis
£40
Semen Analysis
A verbal report
- Male Dog Fertility Testing
- Full semen analysis checking:
- Canine sperm count
- Sperm motility
- Forward motility
- Sperm morphology
- Volume
- Bacteria (for infections)
- Additional fees apply for mobile services.
- Additional fees apply for certificate.