Frequently Asked Questions
Semen Collection
What should I bring to a semen collection appointment?
Please bring your dog on a secure lead and any relevant breeding or registration information. If your dog requires a muzzle, please bring one along; however, we also have a selection of muzzles available onsite if needed.
Can young or inexperienced dogs be collected?
Yes. We regularly work with first-time studs and can provide guidance to help make the process as stress-free as possible. Some dogs may require a few appointments to become comfortable with the collection process, and we are committed to working patiently alongside both dogs and their owners to achieve successful collections.
Do you assess semen quality?
Yes. Semen is evaluated for volume, concentration, motility and overall quality following collection.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes. Appointments are required to ensure adequate time and resources are available for your dog.
How long does a semen collection appointment take?
Most appointments take between 20-45 minutes, depending on the dog's experience and ability.
Do I need to bring a teaser bitch when collecting?
Some dogs collect more successfully with a teaser bitch of their own breed. We usually have a Greyhound teaser bitch available onsite; however, availability may vary. Please contact us prior to your appointment to confirm availability or discuss your dog's specific requirements.
Can semen be chilled or frozen after collection?
Yes. We offer semen processing and transport options depending on your breeding requirements.
What if the Collect and Freeze is unsuccessful?
While every effort is made to achieve a successful collection and freeze, results cannot be guaranteed. If a collection and freeze is unsuccessful, $400 of the total fee will be refunded.
Artificial Insemination
What types of artificial insemination do you offer?
We offer vaginal insemination using fresh or chilled semen.
How many inseminations are usually required?
Most bitches require one or two inseminations, depending on progesterone results and breeding timing.
Can you inseminate using semen shipped from interstate or overseas?
Yes. We can coordinate inseminations using chilled semen received from approved transport providers.
Do you have semen available for purchase?
No. We do not own or sell semen. Breeders will need to arrange a stud service directly with a stud dog owner. Stud dogs can often be found through DogzOnline and other online platforms. If required, we may also be able to pass on your contact information to breeders who may have suitable dogs available.
What is the success rate of artificial insemination?
Success rates vary depending on semen quality, timing, fertility and overall reproductive health. Accurate progesterone testing significantly improves breeding outcomes.
Is artificial insemination safe for my dog?
Yes. Artificial insemination is a routine reproductive procedure when performed by trained professionals.
Is artificial insemination (AI) more successful than natural mating?
Artificial insemination is a widely used breeding method that can be an effective option for many dogs. When combined with accurate progesterone testing and appropriate breeding management, AI allows breeders to make informed decisions about timing and semen use. It also provides access to chilled semen from interstate sires, may reduce stress on the dogs and can help overcome certain physical or behavioural breeding challenges. As every breeding is unique, outcomes will vary depending on the fertility and health of both the sire and bitch.
Progesterone Testing
Why is progesterone testing important?
Progesterone testing helps identify the optimal breeding window, improving the chances of conception and reducing missed matings.
How is progesterone testing performed?
A small blood sample is collected from the dogs foreleg and analysed to determine progesterone levels and appropriate insemination days.
How many progesterone tests will my dog need?
Most bitches require multiple tests throughout their season to accurately determine ovulation timing.
When should progesterone testing begin?
Testing typically begins on day 6 of the bitches season, although timing may vary between dogs.
How quickly are results available?
Results are usually provided within 90 minutes, allowing breeding plans to be adjusted promptly if required.
Can progesterone testing be used for natural matings as well as AI?
Yes. Progesterone testing is beneficial for both natural matings and artificial insemination.
Semen Storage
How long can frozen semen be stored?
When prepared and stored correctly in liquid nitrogen, frozen semen can remain viable indefinently.
Do you offer ongoing semen storage?
Yes. We offer long-term frozen semen storage for breeders wishing to preserve and access their dog's genetics in the future.
Can I check how much semen I have in storage?
Yes. Owners can request an inventory update at any time to confirm the quantity and identification of semen currently held in storage. This information is also provided on every storage invoice.
What information do I need to provide when storing semen?
We require the dog's registration details, owner contact information and any relevant breeding records to ensure accurate identification and record keeping.
Do I retain ownership of my stored semen?
Yes. The semen remains the property of the owner unless written authorisation is provided for its release or transfer.
How often is storage billed?
Storage is billed annually per breeding unit. Storage costs can be found on the storage tab.
Semen Transport
Can stored semen be shipped interstate?
Yes. Frozen semen can be transported Australia-wide using liquid nitrogen shippers. We can assist with organising transport and required documentation.
What is required to release semen from storage?
A completed and signed semen release form is required before any semen can be released or transferred. This helps ensure ownership and authorisation records remain accurate.
How do I request a transport quote?
Transport quotes can be requested by completing the quote request form on our Transport page or by contacting us directly via email. Please provide as much information as possible regarding your transport requirements so we can provide an accurate quote.
Can I transfer semen to or from another storage facility?
Yes. We can assist with arranging the transfer of frozen semen between approved storage facilities within Australia.
Is there a fee to release semen from storage?
Yes. A $50 release fee applies to all semen released from storage at our facility. This fee covers the preparation of the semen for transport, completion of the required documentation and release paperwork to ensure your shipment is processed accurately and efficiently.
How much notice is required to organise transport?
We recommend contacting us as early as possible to allow sufficient time to arrange shipping, documentation and delivery requirements. For urgent transport requests, please contact us directly.