In regular dog breeding or in cases of artificial insemination, knowing when a dog is ovulating helps speed the process. Tests are available to determine if a bitch is in the prime period of her cycle to achieve pregnancy.
Procedure
Canine ovulation tests check the dog’s luteinizing hormone levels to determine if she is ovulating. Blood samples are tested daily at a veterinarian’s office for the greatest accuracy.
Timing
Pregnancy is most likely to be established within three to seven days of a surge of the luteinizing hormone in the dog’s body, according to the American Rottweiler Club. The male’s sperm can survive in the bitch’s body for about five days.
Signs of Ovulation
Owners might notice changes in behavior, as well as vaginal discharge containing blood, when a dog is preparing to ovulate. These changes are set off by changes in the estrogen level, which are not as reliable as an LH test for predicting ovulation.
Alternatives
Ovulation pads also can be used to predict ovulation. The pads change color when soaked with vaginal fluid from a bitch in which elevated luteinizing hormone is detected. Kits also are available for home use that test blood for progesterone levels to predict ovulation.
References
Writer Bio
Anna Chang-Yen has been a writer and editor at newspapers and magazines for over 15 years. She has been published in the "Daily Herald" in Provo, Utah, and the "Ventura County Star" in Ventura, Calif. She has a bachelor's degree in journalism from Louisiana Tech University.