Optimization of freezing canine sperm

Freezing of canine sperm is highly variable. The age of the dog at the time of breeding, fertility, and breed all contribute to the success of freezing and artificial insemination with frozen canine sperm. However, information on canine sperm membrane physiology is severely lacking. Therefore, the main goal of this proposed project is to provide information on canine sperm tolerance limits utilizing sperm quality measurements including sperm movement, how many sperm are alive, how many may have the capacity for fertilization, and how many sperm are intact. By adding both cholesterol and a combination of cryoprotectants to sperm from dogs of varying ages and breeds will hopefully not only greatly improve sperm freezing from these dogs but will also help in the preservation of highly valuable genetics from all canine lines, both domestic, working and endangered species.

Participants in the clinical trial will receive a free fresh and frozen semen evaluation from an ejaculate from the dog enrolled.

condition(s)

semen cryopreservation

eligibility information

One of the main factors we are looking at is the effect of age on the quality of frozen-thawed semen. We are looking for dogs ranging from young (< 2 years) to > 6 yrs of age.

Dog must be intact and able to undergo an ejaculate (sperm) evaluation for breeding/ejaculate cryopreservation evaluation to be a part of this study.

Ideally dog/s have been collected before or are/have been used as a stud dog, but not required.

Enrollment Deadline

Enrollment ends December 31, 2021

contact information

If interested, contact vth_reproduction@colostate.edu and provide the breed, age, and any reproductive history of your dog.

Kelsey Tofany
Kelsey Tofany