Assessment of ovulation rate in breeding bitches based on vaginal Exfoliative cytology and progesterone analysis patterns in and around Chennai

The study was conducted to assess the ovulation rate in breeding bitches based on vaginal exfoliative cytology and serum progesterone profiling in and around Chennai. A total of 30 healthy adult female dogs presented for mating were selected and randomly divided in to 3 groups (10 animals/group). Vaginal smears were collected at regular intervals, stained with Giemsa stain, and evaluated for cell types to determine the stage of the estrous cycle. Simultaneously, serum progesterone levels were measured using chemiluminescence immunoassay to confirm the optimal breeding window. Bitches were bred based on the concurrence of cytological estrus (predominance of superficial and cornified cells) and progesterone levels between 4-10 ng/mL. Conception was confirmed by ultrasonography 25-30 days post-mating. The study revealed a higher conception rate when breeding was synchronized with both cytological and hormonal indicators, compared to either method alone. These findings highlight the importance of combining exfoliative cytology and progesterone analysis for accurate estrus detection and improved reproductive success in breeding bitches.