Most discussions of infertility in the bitch describe differential diagnoses considering the classification of the estrous cycle as follows: (1) normal estrous cycle, (2) abnormal estrous cycle (abnormal interestrous interval, persistent anestrus, or prolonged estrus), and (3) failure to breed.(2, 5, 10) The approach to infertility in the bitch presented here differs by describing what diagnostic procedures are performed and what thought processes are considered at different phases of the estrous cycle. Some breeders contact the veterinarian months in advance of the next estrus, and a prebreeding consultation can be arranged. Other times, the veterinarian is not consulted until the bitch is entering her peak fertile period during estrus. For some bitches, the first indication of infertility is apparent at the time of pregnancy diagnosis. The goal of this article is to help the veterinarian approach the problem of infertility in the bitch by describing what steps are taken at different stages of the estrous cycle. After initial presentation, the bitch is evaluated through subsequent phases of her estrous cycle to optimally manage her fertility.
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