So now that we are on route to determine if our female is ovulating and we have chosen what type of semen we are using, what happens next?
This all depends on HOW we plan to breed her. We have many options on how a breeding can take place and what type of semen will be used. For the semen options we have fresh, chilled, and frozen (for more information on these read my prior blog, HERE). Beyond that the mating options are live mating, vaginal insemination, transcervical insemination, and surgical insemination. Making the choice of what type of semen and breeding method you will use involves a lot of thought as they each have different success rates and risks.
As you can see from the chart above each type of semen method has a differing viability period in the female. These values can vary depending on many factors such as the extender used, semen quality, storage method, shipping method, ambient room/shipping temperature, and more.
The first step in any breeding is to determine ovulation timing. This can be done a number of ways and was discussed in my last post HERE.
With live matings; which are often the simplest to do and give the highest level of success, we can use any of the discussed methods of ovulation determination in addition to trusting the stud dog. Each breeder will follow a different protocol on how often they place the two dogs together but often we recommend allowing them to breed the day after ovulation as well as 48 hours later at minimum.
Vaginal inseminations are often done by breeders in their home as they are simple procedures. These are often done via side by side breedings (when both male and female are in the same area) or with chilled semen. There are differing methods and equipment one can use for this; but the principle is the same, collect the semen from the male and place it into the female, vaginally.
We here at TBC can help you with all your vaginal AI needs, check out our AI supplies HERE.
Also, check out our shipping semen supplies HERE.
Beyond those two methods there are also transcervical and surgical inseminations. Both of these are done in a veterinary practice as they involve more skill, accuracy, and specialized equipment. Typically these tend to be done 3-4 days post ovulation, depending on the semen being used. Please consult with your veterinary team to determine how they like to do these procedures and the steps involved.
Here at TBC we are always happy to talk with you about your breeding program and your needs. Feel free to reach out to us directly to discuss your needs and how we can help assist you.
Written by Susan H, RVT