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Published on: July 12, 2017
Sperm morphology and fertility in the dog
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Tygerberg Hospital, Parow, South Africa.
Journal of Reproduction and Fertility. Supplement
|January 1, 1993
Summary
Sperm morphology significantly impacts dog fertility. Dogs with over 60% normal sperm had 61% fertility, while those below 60% normal sperm showed only 13% fertility.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Science
- Reproductive Biology
- Canine Health
Background:
- Sperm morphology is crucial for mammalian fertility.
- Understanding canine sperm abnormalities can improve breeding outcomes.
- Previous research has not definitively linked specific morphology thresholds to canine fertility rates.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the relationship between abnormal dog spermatozoa and fertility.
- To determine a threshold for normal sperm morphology impacting canine fertility.
- To investigate if age influences subfertility in male dogs.
Main Methods:
- Collected semen samples from 67 dogs across 34 breeds via digital manipulation.
- Utilized bright field light and transmission electron microscopy for sperm examination.
- Statistically analyzed the association between abnormal sperm percentage and fertility in 42 inseminated bitches.
Main Results:
- Established a critical threshold: canine fertility declined significantly when normal sperm morphology fell below 60%.
- Dogs with >60% normal morphology achieved 61% fertility (14/23 bitches).
- Dogs with <60% normal morphology had only 13% fertility (2/15 bitches).
Conclusions:
- A minimum of 60% normal sperm morphology is essential for optimal canine fertility.
- Subfertility in male dogs is not age-dependent, potentially affecting dogs of any age.
- Sperm morphology assessment is a vital tool for diagnosing and managing canine infertility.
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