Progesterone Testing
The most common cause of a missed conception is improper timing of mating.
Many methods have been used in the past to determine the ideal time to implant, including vaginal smears, vaginoscopy, electrical conductivity, vaginal discharge appearance, but all of these do not accurately reflect the hormone changes that cause these external signs. The most precise method to determine the correct timing of mating is accurate progesterone testing.
At Trade Kennels we installed Immulyte 1000, immunoassay system, the only equipment tested, collaborated and certified for use of canine serum. We will have results ready for you in 45 minutes and can forward them to you immediately. The ideal time for taking a sample from the female is early in the morning, before first feeding. You can post the blood sample then to the lab by Swift post, it enable us to give you the accurate result by noon.
Progesterone testing isn't as simple as determining a number – there are many factors that impact to determine the best time to breed. If you are interested in progesterone and variations, please keep an eye on our website, the publication on the above matter will be published in the near future.
Progesterone Guidelines nmol/L & ng/ml correlation (IDEXX Laboratories 2017)
Concentration of Concentration of Estimate for Ovulation Estimated Time for Breeding
Progesterone in Progesterone in (no. of days) (no. of days)
nmol/L ng/ml
0-2 nmol/L 0-0.63ng/ml Baseline concentration, Not applicable
too early to estimate
3-6 nmol/L 0.94-1.89ng/ml Minimum of 2 days before Earliest estimated window for breeding
ovulation is expected. Results is from 4-6 days, but could be longer
of 3-4 nmol/L may persist for a
a week or longer.
7-12 nmol/L 2.2-3.77ng/ml Minimum of 1 day before Estimated window for breeding is 3-5
ovulation is expected. days but could be longer.
13-18 nmol/L 4.09-5.66ng/ml Ovulation is impending or has Estimated window for breeding is
just occurred. 2-4 days
19-31 nmol/L 5.97-9.75ng/ml Ovulation recently occurred. Estimated window for breeding is 1-3 days
32-64 nmol/L 10.06-20.13ng/ml Ova/Eggs have matured, Estimated window for breeding is 0-2 days
optimal potential for fertility
65-90 nmol/L 20.44-28.30ng/ml Ova/Eggs have matured but Breed at once 0-1 days
aging, decreased potential
for fertility
>90 nmol/L >28.30 ng/ml Too late or very reduced
potential for fertility
Collection and Freezing of Semen
An appointment is necessary to arrange to have your dog’s semen collected and frozen. This could be done at our premises or in your own kennels. We only use the imported extenders of the Camelot system and produce pelleted semen packaged into screw-cap vials, each vial being one insemination (breeding) unit.
It is important to consider the recent breeding history of your sire when contemplating having his semen frozen. Ideally he has had a semen collection or mating in the past 2 months. If it has been six months or more without sexual activity the initial semen sample may be of inferior quality to freeze.
In such cases it may be worthwhile to collect the sire 7 days prior to the freezing appointment to stimulate the spermatogenic cycle. Ideally he hasn’t mated in the past three days. Multiple collections available; all the sires are kept in the secure heated kennels with access to outdoor paddocks or we can accommodate any boarding requirements on demand.
Trade Genetics always have a seasonal bitch available. By using a female in heat you increase the chances for a successful collection and potentially increase the number of breeding units in the collection, decreasing the cost per unit in each particular collection. For toy breeds we recommend bringing a teaser bitch with you. (Be sure to travel them in separate compartments – ideally car and trailer!)
Sires should be at least one year old and, depending on concurrent illness may be successfully collected past ten years. However, semen from older dogs may not “recover” as well during post thaw.
The male's semen is collected. This is achieved by manual stimulation. The collector needs to obtain the second fraction of the ejaculate (the milky, sperm rich portion) stopping the collection when the third fraction starts (watery in appearance) which consists of prostatic fluid.
It will only take approximately 15 minutes to collect and to analyse the semen and to collect the blood sample if required for export. After a freeze is complete and final pellets formed, we thaw one pellet to assess its post thaw motility of the semen.
Storage of Semen
Semen is stored in large tanks containing liquid nitrogen, at -150 C. All the tanks are inspected on a daily basis to ensure there is no nitrogen loss and the semen is kept at a stable temperature.
Pelleted semen is stored in a small screw cap bottle called a vial (cryovial) with ID information about each donor and the date it has been frozen. Each vial contains enough semen for one insemination. Occasionally, there might be a necessity to use two vials, if the collection was performed at later stages in life of a sire and the post thaw motility is under the optimal range. The vials are clipped onto aluminum canes, identified by numbers. The tanks are topped up with liquid nitrogen as required.
There is no time limit on storage of the frozen semen as long as the conditions are maintained stable throughout the period, whether it is one day or 50 years. Insurance can be purchased for additional fee to the owner of the semen. ( Insurance provider is FBD Insurance - please talk to us, if you are interested.)
Advanced Guided AI
Advanced Guided Artificial Insemination Technique
Our facility is proud to offer an advanced guided artificial insemination technique that is highly effective. This method provides breeders with a reliable, safe, and efficient way to achieve high conception rates, using the latest technology in canine reproduction.
Why Choose Our Advanced Guided AI Technique?
This innovative insemination method is ideal for dog breeders who want to optimize the chances of a successful mating without the need for surgical intervention or general anesthesia. Unlike traditional AI methods, our guided technique uses precision equipment to ensure accurate semen placement, reducing stress and increasing success.
A major advantage of this method is its suitability for fresh, chilled, or frozen semen. This flexibility makes it a perfect choice for breeders using semen from abroad or looking to preserve valuable genetics for future breeding plans.
Cutting-Edge Technology from Karl Storz
We use a state-of-the-art endoscopic unit from Karl Storz, the world leader in veterinary and medical imaging systems. This equipment enables us to provide exceptional accuracy, ensuring optimal placement of semen.
Our guided insemination system features a high-definition camera for real-time monitoring, a cold light source for superior visibility. A shunt system is also used during the procedure to prevent semen backflow and maximize retention, giving each insemination the best chance of success.
Proven Success Rates
We have consistently achieved high conception rates using this advanced guided AI method. We understand the complexities of reproductive timing, especially when working with frozen semen, and tailors each procedure to the individual dog’s cycle.
Thanks to the clarity and precision provided by the Karl Storz system, and our proven protocols, we’ve helped numerous breeders produce healthy litters through this safe and highly effective method.
What to Expect During the Procedure
The entire process is quick and stress-free for your dog, typically completed during a short visit. Here's how it works:
- Pre-Procedural Assessment: We evaluate the female dog’s reproductive health and ovulation timing to ensure insemination occurs at the most fertile moment. This includes hormonal testing and cytological assessment if needed.
- Guided AI Procedure: Using the Karl Storz endoscope for visual assistance, we perform our Optimised Guided Artificial Insemination Technique.
- Post-Procedural Care: Your dog can go home immediately afterward. We provide detailed aftercare instructions and are available to answer any follow-up questions.
With a fully licensed AI facility and extensive experience in canine reproduction, we’re dedicated to helping breeders achieve the best possible outcomes. Our investment in world-class technology and commitment to ethical, non-invasive practices sets us apart in the field.
We approach every case with care, professionalism, and a genuine passion for animal health and genetic preservation. Whether you're breeding with frozen semen, protecting rare bloodlines, or simply seeking a safe and effective method, our advanced guided AI service is designed to support your goals.
