Cause of Mating Failure

The cause of mating failure is poor timing on the handler's part rather than genuine infertility. In some cases, however, there may be physical conditions that prevent conception.

Infertility in male dogs can result from prostatic or testicular disease, an underactive thyroid, or even from a prolonged high fever.

A male's fertility can be determined by sperm examination and count. Female infertility is more difficult to assess.

Blood tests may be done during estrus to measure levels of the sex hormones estrogen, luteinizing hormone (LH), and progesterone. The ovaries can be examined by laparoscopy.