Estrous cycle / Breeding management

1. What is the average number of months between estrous cycles in bitches? Which breeds cycle more frequently? Which cycle less frequently?

2. For the four stages of the estrous cycle, describe physical changes in the bitch, and vaginal cytology characteristic of the stage. Draw examples of vaginal cytology you might expect to see at each stage.

3. What is a silent heat? What is a split heat?

4. Can you differentiate cornified from non-cornified vaginal cells? See Case Studies, #15.

5. Describe use of measurement of progesterone in serum for ovulation timing in bitches.

6. Do dogs need to form the copulatory lock, or tie, for pregnancy to be achieved? Why or why not?

Case Study: You need to know the date on which your bitch is most likely to whelp so you can ask for the correct days off of work. Below are her serum progesterone concentrations during heat:

She was bred by natural service on 08-23, 08-25, and 08-26. On what date is she most likely to whelp? Describe your calculations and thought processes.

The views and opinions expressed in this page are strictly those of the page author.
The contents of this page have not been reviewed or approved by the University of Minnesota.