Vet Check Breeding, Timing and Cycling in the Bitch Determining the optimal time for breeding of a bitch in heat is not as simple as one might think! There is significant variation in the behaviour each bitch shows on her most fertile days, meaning we cannot rely on behavioural and anatomical changes to give us the best chance for conception. This is especially important when you are using stud dogs that may have poor fertility (be it because of old age, previous injury or infection), or when performing Artificial Insemination with fresh or frozen semen. Thankfully we have additional tools available that, in combination, enable us to ensure breeding occurs during the bitch’s period of maximum fertility.
Article by Dr Jasmin Hyatt BVSc (Hons) DipACT MANZCVS (reproduction) Veterinary Reproduction Consultancy Pty Ltd (02) 6301 9550, Orange, NSW
Physical and Behavioural Changes (Low accuracy) The following table shows the changes you will see externally and behaviourally in bitch’s in heat. Usually those found in mid-late heat indicate increased fertility. It is important to remember that these changes can be used as a guide only. Many bitches will show receptive behaviour and bleeding changes at times OTHER THAN their fertile periods and reliance on these changes alone significantly reduces her chance of pregnancy.
Early in ‘heat’ (proestrus)
Mid to late ‘heat’ (estrus)
Behaviour
Attractive to male
Receptive to mating (including backing up, standing for male)
Vulva Vulval Discharge
But not receptive to mating Swollen, turgid (firm) Bloody, red
‘Flagging’ (lifting tail up & waving side-to-side) Softens, reduces in size, becomes wrinkly Lightens in colour and eventually becomes clear
10
AWSDM
