Breeding Soundness Examination of the Bitch

Key points

History/signalment

The female is responsible for achieving and maintaining a pregnancy as well as rearing the puppies until weaning age. It is ideal to look critically at the female both prior to the start of her breeding career as well as after any problems may have occurred during pregnancy or parturition. It is important to ensure that a thorough and accurate history is taken.

Physical examination

The physical examination is the most important part of any BSE. Although the reproductive organs are pivotal, the rest of the body systems that support those organs cannot be forgotten. Not every body system is discussed, just the more essential ones (in the authors’ opinion) in regard to the reproductive success of the bitch.

Summary

It is important to have an honest conversation with owners regarding their expectations for a particular brood bitch. With a thorough physical examination, obtaining an accurate history, and performing appropriate diagnostics when warranted, a clinician can greatly enhance a bitch’s future reproductive potential.

Acknowledgments

The authors would like to thank their technician, Maureen Henderson, LVT, for her assistance in helping to obtain the photographs and to the American Kennel Club Canine Health Foundation (Grant number: 02282-E) for sponsoring their theriogenology residency.