"My Bitch Is Empty!" an Overview of the Preconceptional Causes of Infertility in Dogs

Abstract

Infertility is a complex and common problem in reproductive medicine consultations. Three factors must be examined during the preconception phase: breeding management, the fertility of the bitch, and the fertility of the stud dog. Among these factors, improper breeding management remains the main cause of reproductive failure, with accurate recognition of ovulation being crucial for successful mating. Artificial insemination allows for a thorough evaluation of semen quality compared to natural mating. In addition, genetic selection, nutritional factors, and reproductive health management can either impair or improve the fertility of females and males. Idiopathic infertility can occur in bitches, but it is important to rule out other possible causes first. In bitches with irregular estrus cycles, ovarian dysfunction and endocrine imbalances should be investigated. In bitches with regular cycles, uterine disorders such as cystic endometrial hyperplasia, endometritis or congenital anomalies may be the cause. Both mating-related and chronic endometritis are recognized as contributing factors to infertility. Infectious agents, particularly Brucella spp. and Mycoplasma spp., should also be evaluated, although interpretation of Mycoplasma test results requires caution. In males presenting with poor semen quality, potential causes include infectious diseases (with brucellosis always requiring exclusion), hormonal imbalances, and the impact of exogenous treatments. The article underscores the critical role of comprehensive diagnostic protocols, proactive health surveillance, and data-driven breeding strategies in systematically addressing this multifaceted challenge.

Keywords: breeding management; breeding soundness examination; estrus cycle; infertility; semen.

Figure 1

Endoscopic view of different vaginal malformation; (A): vestibulovaginal stenosis; (B): thin vaginal septum that was cut with the finger; (C): thick vaginal septum; (D): thick and 5 cm-long vaginal septum.

Figure 2

Endoscopic view of a vaginal septum on the (left) and after its removal by electrosection on the (right).

Figure 3

Example of CGT in an English Bulldog bitch presented for persistent signs of estrus. The (left) image is the ultrasound image of the mass; in the (middle), the internal genitalia after ovariohysterectomy, and on the (right), an image of the left ovary from the ovarian bursa. The scale is given by the surgical blade size 11.

Figure 4

Persistent penile frenulum in a young dog presented for frenetically licking the prepuce.

Figure 5

Decision Tree for the Management of a Stud Dog Presented for Infertility. This algorithm reflects the authors’ routine clinical approach and does not represent a universally accepted consensus.