Majestic Tree H
UKC Forum Member
Registered: Nov 2005
Location: New Market Va
Posts: 4670 |
If any doubt Call the Dr. at Revival Animal Health
from Revival Animal Health
Bitch problems are a popular topic among breeders, but the truth is, most bitches have no problems. Bitches do everything to maintain their body and if there is excess, they reproduce. The number one issue that costs us money is bitches that are not cycling. If we have a number of females are not cycling, the first thing to look at is their diet and vitamins. Poor quality protein and imbalanced vitamins can be the cause, and you can correct cycling if they have the right diet, vitamins and minerals.
In the wild dog pack, one or two alpha bitches will cycle, while the rest do not. There may be 4 or more females, but their ovaries will stay in anestrous (quiet ovary) and out of heat. This is good - the best genetics will breed while the rest contribute to feeding. Skipping heats can send normal adult bitches into anestrous as well.
It's hard on bitches to rest them and intermittently breed them. Typically the first litter after the "rest" is difficult for the bitch and there will also be fewer weaned puppies. However, if we do a good job feeding and whelping females, they can cycle again with no issues at their normal 6-month interval.
We also see this phenomenon in the kennel with the young female. We'll skip heats to get the dog physically and mentally ready to raise a litter, but then they stop cycling. Small breeds and especially poodles are notorious for doing this. This dog is easily started again!
What to do if I have females not cycling?
First, make sure everything is normal with your system, especially with their diet. Ask your veterinarian for help if there is any debate.
Put the females on a vitamin mineral supplement daily. More vitamin and mineral issues have been diagnosed in the last few years - there are many reasons, but the important thing is: they are easy to correct. While bringing them in we want optimum levels in the female. I like Doc Roy'sŪ Daily Care as it is easy to use, it's made in the USA, and it's economical.
In pigs, PG 600 is the hormone used to start cycling in gilts. It knocks the scar tissue off the ovary, allowing the ovary to start cycling. Dogs also respond well to PG 600 - use at 1cc/20 pounds. For the best results, give the first two doses 5 days apart, then weekly until in heat. Many breeders will say Monday and Friday and then every Friday. Most are in heat by the third week, but if there is any question you can give one more injection, with a maximum of 6 injections.
PG 600 is a great management tool and I commonly use it in young females who are old enough to breed but are not coming in or have an irregular heat cycle. We are 80% successful at getting these maiden females to cycle again. If there is one tool you can use to manage your females more effectively, it's PG 600 to keep your bitches cycling regularly, for healthier moms and pups every time.
Dr. B
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Steve Morrow "Saltlick Majestic's"
"Never Have Hounds Or Kids And You Won't Get Your Heart Broke"!!
540-421-2875
PR, Saltlick's Blue Misty Linga "Bluetick Coonhound"
French X American Hounds
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09-30-2012 05:37 PM
