Breeding Soundness Examination of the Dog

The breeding soundness examination of the dog is not only important for the medical records, but is essential in the case of a pre-purchase examination.

Failure to positively identify an animal could cause legal problems in the future.

History

• Has the dog ever been bred?
• Has he ever sired a litter? If has bred, but never sired a litter, you may consider congenital infertility.
• If he has sired litters, and is now infertile you may consider acquired infertility.
• Frequency of use.
• Every other day breeding is usually acceptable.
• Breeding more than that may be overusing the dog.
• Has there been any exogenous drug therapy (testosterone etc.)?
• What is the dog’s habitat?
• Is he in a kennel?
• Is he housed with bitch? If so, the bitch may be dominant.
• Is he ‘mommies little boy’, who has not had any canine contact?
• Has he had any exposure to sex?
• Has he been punished for showing sexual interest?
• Has his libido changed?
• Has he ever been shown?
• Does he have any endocrine disease?

Physical Exam

• Look for signs of endocrine problems.
• Check for any congenital disorders that would make him an unsuitable potential breeder.
• Reproductive Exam