If you’re a dog breeder, there’s a tool that can help you get the best results from your breeding program. It’s called an at-home progesterone test. Progesterone is a hormone in female dogs that changes throughout their reproductive cycle.
By checking these levels regularly, you can figure out when they’re most likely to have puppies.
Progesterone Testing Kit: These kits typically include test strips, lancets, alcohol swabs, and a sterile container for the blood sample.
Gloves: To maintain hygiene during the sample collection process.
Cotton Balls or Gauze: For cleaning the puncture site.
Towel or Blanket: To keep your dog calm and still during the process.
Marker Pen: To label the sample container.
Prepare the Testing Kit: Open the progesterone testing kit and lay out all the components on a clean surface.
Restrain Your Dog: Place your dog on a flat surface and use a towel or blanket to keep them calm and still. You may need an assistant to help hold your dog steady.
Clean the Puncture Site: Use an alcohol swab to clean the area where you will draw blood, usually on the inside of the dog’s hind leg.
Draw Blood Sample: Put on gloves and use the lancet to prick the vein on the inside of the dog’s hind leg. Collect a small amount of blood into the sterile container provided in the kit.
Apply Blood to Test Strip: Follow the instructions in the testing kit to apply the blood sample to the test strip.
Wait for Results: Allow the test strip to process for the time specified in the kit instructions.
This usually takes a few minutes.
Read the Test Strip: Compare the test strip to the color chart provided in the kit to determine the progesterone level.
Understand the Levels: Progesterone levels vary depending on the stage of the reproductive cycle. For example, low levels indicate the dog is not in heat, while high levels indicate ovulation has occurred.
Consult a Veterinarian: If you are unsure about the results or need further guidance, consult your veterinarian for interpretation and next steps.
By following these steps, you can accurately conduct a progesterone test for your dog at home. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to your veterinarian for assistance.
Offers several benefits, including convenience and accuracy in determining when a female dog is most likely to have puppies.
Regular testing allows breeders to optimize breeding outcomes, ensuring the health and well-being of both the mother and her offspring.
Overall, at-home progesterone testing provides a valuable tool for dog breeders, enabling them to make data-driven decisions that promote successful breeding outcomes while prioritizing the health and well-being of their dogs.