Artificial Insemination

If you are considering breeding using artificial insemination then read through these hints and tips. Breeding using artificial insemination is quite complex and expensive and therefore most breeders will avoid this treatment if possible.

To find out official information contact Defra, which governs the import of canine semen. Visit www.defra.org.uk or call 020 7904 6222.

Why do breeders use AI?

Some reasons why breeders use artificial insemination:

• If the breed is in decline
• Widen the gene pool in the UK
• To improve the breed – health, conformation, temperament etc
• Lack of bloodlines in the UK
• The chosen stud dog has been exported/deceased

Types of AI

• Surgical
• Transcervical/endoscopy
• Vaginal

The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons advise that surgical insemination has a lot of disadvantages to the bitch and you are not recommended to do this procedure. Think carefully about your bitch’s welfare before going ahead with AI. It is your responsibility as her owner and breeder that you do not put her through any unnecessary stress, pain or suffering.

Tips and hints how to go about the treatment

• Plan well in advance, the whole process including picking your stud dog may take about six months.
• Research your chosen dog and request health tests.
• Research other alternatives, sometimes importing a dog is cheaper than AI.
• Before importing semen, you will need a license from Defra. It takes about 7-14 days to acquire so make sure you apply well in advance. You also will need to source a vet that is experienced in AI.
• When importing be aware that it is an expensive process and so it may be worth sharing a canister with other breeders to reduce the cost.
• Make sure that you obtain a shipping number from the courier firm so that you can track the process of the canister. There have been instances where it has taken several days to get through customs and so it is a good idea to make customs in both countries aware of what you are shipping and how you are doing it.
• Make sure that you keep all the information recorded and keep copies of all the paperwork sent and received.
• You need to be aware that the success rates are not as good as a natural conception.