How to induce heat in a dog?

How to induce heat in a dog? - briefly

Inducing heat in a dog can be achieved through various methods. One effective way is by providing a warm environment using heating pads or blankets specifically designed for pets. Additionally, ensuring proper hydration and a balanced diet can help maintain the dog's body temperature.

How to induce heat in a dog? - in detail

Inducing heat in a dog, often referred to as artificial insemination or AI, is a process that requires careful planning and execution. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you understand this procedure:

1. Timing: The first crucial aspect is timing. Dogs have an estrous cycle that typically lasts 21 days, with the fertile window occurring around day 9-15. Ovulation usually happens on day 10-14. To induce heat artificially, you need to mimic this natural process using hormones.

2. Hormonal Preparation: Before introducing semen, the bitch needs to be prepared with hormones to stimulate ovulation and create an environment conducive for fertilization. The most common hormone used is Luteinizing Hormone (LH), which can be administered in two ways:

   • LH-Releasing Hormone (LHRH): This is given 48 hours before the expected ovulation time to stimulate the release of LH.
   • Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG): This can be administered 72-96 hours before the expected ovulation time and acts similarly to LHRH.

3. Semiquantitative Progesterone Testing: To ensure accurate timing, it's essential to monitor progesterone levels in the bitch. When progesterone levels reach a certain point (around 5-10 ng/mL), it indicates that ovulation is imminent.

4. Semiquantitative Progesterone Testing: To ensure accurate timing, it's essential to monitor progesterone levels in the bitch. When progesterone levels reach a certain point (around 5-10 ng/mL), it indicates that ovulation is imminent.

5. Semen Collection and Preparation: While preparing the bitch, you'll also need to collect semen from the male dog. This can be done through manual stimulation or using an artificial vagina. The collected semen needs to be extended with a suitable medium to increase the volume and protect spermatozoa.

6. Insemination: Once the bitch is ready (progesterone levels are optimal, and she's showing signs of heat), you can proceed with insemination. The semen is introduced into the vagina using a sterile syringe or pipette, ensuring it reaches the cervix.

7. Post-Insemination Care: After insemination, careful monitoring is crucial. The bitch should be kept calm and quiet to minimize any discomfort. Repeat inseminations may be necessary depending on the semen quality and quantity used initially.

8. Pregnancy Diagnosis: Around 25-30 days after insemination, a veterinarian can perform an ultrasound or palpation to confirm pregnancy. If successful, the gestation period for dogs is approximately 63 days.