A quantitative progesterone blood test is the single most accurate method for timing breedings. Also useful for timing c-sections where dates might be in doubt. Results are run immediately on our in-house immunoassay analyzer 

When it comes to reproduction “timing” is everything to make sure that the sperm and eggs meet on time! The measurement and charting of hormones such as progesterone is fast becoming one of our most reliable tools 

The progesterone test can be done every 2-3 days starting about 3-5 days into the heat. The timing of the test can be more certain if the lengths of the dog’s previous heat cycles are known. The beginning progesterone levels are typically less than 1.0 ng/ml until the day before the LH surge. On the day of the LH spike, serum progesterone concentrations are 2-3 ng/ml; the day following the LH surge, the serum progesterone concentration is 3-4 ng/ml. Ovulation occurs at a progesterone level of 5 ng/ml.