Hi All,

Found this article on a website and wondered how easy would it be to take a blood sample from a dog. Because I believe thats what is needed for one of these tests. Technology seems to be getting better and better. :-)

NEW - Canine Pregnancy Test

The new test for pregnancy in dogs detects Relaxin, a hormone which is only present in pregnant bitches. The hormone level starts to rise between 21 and 25 days after mating. For the earliest detection of pregnancy, bitches can be tested during this period and if negative will require re-testing 7 days later. For reliable results we would advise waiting until 35 days after mating.

The test can be carried out on serum or heparin plasma, cost £20.00

Where did you see that article, Chezza?  Can you post the link?

Dont know whether this is the same article that previous post saw, but here is a link  http://www.bullwrinkle.com/index.html?ShoppingPages/dog-pregnancy-test-canine.htm~indexmain

Hope it works ok

Regards

Nicci

It seems the test throws up a lot of false results, so the usual methods (palpation and scanning, or waiting) seem to be more reliable. 

It might be a good idea to try it out next time you mate a bitch. It would be interesting to know if it works.
You would obviously have to go to your vet for a blood sample.and that will add to your costs.

My own Vet can usually Palpate at 25 to 28 days ans has always been right if he said yes.  Otherwise I have had a bitch scanned at 30 days plus.  By 35 days I can usually see for myself the bitch is pregnant in my own breed (unless the litter is less than four, but have never had fewer than four born).

Hi All

Sorry took so long to reply, here is the link http://www.nwlabs.co.uk/newsletter39.htm#Canine%20Pregnancy

My vets not very good at palpapating and not good at scans either, each time I go to the vets they say yes I think she's pregnant and it then turns out to be a phanthom. I think the best method like someone said is the waiting game, which is all so frustrating, as you want to get organised. I now have everything for a whelping and no bitches in whelp. :-(