The dog's body is complex biological mechanism, whose work is carried out through interaction internal organs and systems. One of the most important functions of the body is its ability to reproduce. This function is ensured due to the existence of a system of reproductive organs. Thanks to the ability to reproduce, it is not just the preservation of the species - the dog - that is ensured, but it also becomes possible to select animals, preserve certain breed characteristics, and consolidate useful breed properties in certain lines.
However, increasingly, pets are becoming susceptible to various diseases of the reproductive system.

Sexual cycle

The reproductive cycle in dogs occurs according to the so-called ovarian type. Its essence lies in the fact that under the influence of hormones from the endocrine glands, sex cells (eggs) mature in the ovaries, and the ovaries themselves begin to produce a large number of female sex hormones (estrogens). At the same time, certain changes occur in the uterus, during which the inner layer of the walls of the uterus (endometrium) thickens, the amount of mucus produced increases, and bloody discharge appears from the external genitalia. All these changes occur during the period of estrus. After a normal estrus, the level of female sex hormones gradually decreases, the uterus acquires a normal structure, which remains until the next estrus. All these changes are cyclical and occur twice a year in dogs. Any disturbances in the reproductive cycle can be considered a disease; in addition, they cause conditions such as inflammation of the uterus and contribute to the appearance of tumors in the uterus, ovaries and mammary glands.
What are the signs of organ disease? reproductive system can be observed? The first symptom is any violation of the sexual cycle. Such violations include unequal intervals between estrus, prolonged or mild estrus, frequent heats, an increase in the interval between estrus of more than 6 months or absence of estrus.

The most common diseases of the reproductive system include hormonal imbalance, endometritis, uterine hyperplasia, pyometra, neoplasms of the uterus, ovaries and mammary glands.

Hormonal imbalance metabolism, as a rule, is manifested by an increase in the level of female sex hormones. Clinical signs can be very diverse. Often these are skin diseases: itching, baldness (especially symmetrical in the back, abdomen, hind limbs), skin rash, thin, dry coat, thin, “parchment” skin. Another sign of a hormonal imbalance would be considered severe false pregnancy (pseudo-lactation). You should also pay attention to various changes in the skin in the area of ​​the external genitalia: thickening and roughening of the skin, the appearance of pigmentation.
If the increased level of female sex hormones persists long enough, this leads to the development of more severe changes in the organs of the reproductive system: acute purulent process in the uterus (pyometra), as well as a disease such as uterine hyperplasia (pathological long-term thickening of the walls of the uterus with significant changes in structure and the development of an inflammatory reaction).

With pyometra The uterus greatly increases in size and pus and other inflammatory products begin to accumulate in its cavity. At the same time, the animal refuses to eat, thirst increases greatly, the temperature rises, weakness and apathy develop. Vomiting may develop. Purulent discharge appears from the external genitalia, and the abdomen noticeably increases in size. The development of pyometra requires immediate surgical intervention.

With the development of hyperplasia uterus clinical signs will be the same as with pyometra, but less pronounced: appetite is absent or reduced, thirst is moderate or normal, lethargy may alternate with a satisfactory general condition, vomiting rarely develops. Discharge from the external genitalia is often bloody or mucous, and may be completely absent. Weakness or stiffness of the hind limbs often appears.

Endometritis characterized by the development of inflammation of the uterine mucosa. The general condition of the dog is satisfactory and the only sign of illness may be stiffness of the hind limbs or mucous discharge from the external genitalia. Almost always, without treatment, inflammation spreads from the uterine mucosa to the entire uterine wall, and endometritis develops into uterine hyperplasia or pyometra.

The diseases listed above, as a rule, develop after estrus, and there may be no clear boundary between estrus and the onset of inflammation.

Development of breast tumors Diseases are also common in dogs. Although the exact cause of this problem has not been established, it is known that high levels of sex hormones contribute to these diseases. Tumors appear as lumps on one or more mammary glands. The sizes of these neoplasms can vary: from a pea to the size of a child’s head. Tumors can have a smooth surface or lumpy surface and have different growth rates. At a certain stage of development, the tumor begins to ulcerate and necrotize. Tumors of the mammary glands have a mixed structure, i.e. consist of both malignant and benign cells. Because these tumors often metastasize, the best treatment is to remove them early in their development.

Neoplasms of the uterus and ovaries are less common in dogs. These are mostly benign tumors, but ovarian cancer also occurs. Clinical symptoms can vary from mild malaise to severe conditions, accompanied by high fever, refusal to eat, severe lethargy, and impaired cardiac and respiratory activity.
In all of the above cases, the dog or cat must be urgently shown to a veterinarian. Sometimes inflammation can develop very quickly and without treatment the animal can die within a few days. For staging accurate diagnosis used in veterinary clinics modern methods research: ultrasound, blood tests, etc. Unfortunately, drug treatment for most diseases of the reproductive system is difficult.

Treatment

The use of antibiotics and strong anti-inflammatory drugs is ineffective. Today, the most reliable and effective method of treating the listed pathologies, especially in inflammatory processes and neoplasms, is surgical treatment, which involves removing the uterus and ovaries or tumors. Removal of the ovaries is also recommended for the development of breast tumors, because These tumors develop under the influence of ovarian hormones.

Thus, various diseases of the reproductive organs in dogs are very common and can manifest themselves in the most various symptoms. It should be remembered that even mild discomfort can signal the onset of a serious, life-threatening disease in the reproductive system. Therefore, regardless of the severity clinical signs It is recommended to show the animal to a veterinarian as soon as possible. Only a quickly made correct diagnosis and timely initiation of treatment can guarantee a favorable outcome of the disease.

Castration

The main purpose of this operation (castration in males and aurectomy in females) is to prevent the reproduction of animals. There are two types of castration: surgical and biological.
During surgical operation in males the testes are removed, and in females the ovaries are removed, sometimes the uterus is removed along with them. This is called a hystrectomy. This is done because often after removal of the ovaries various uterine tumors occur. Hystrectomy is quite common in the West; in our country, aurectomy is more preferred.
During the biological method of castration, the male is injected into the testes. hormonal drugs. But in our country this method is not used due to the lack of drugs. In addition to hormones that are injected into the testes, there are drugs that are taken orally, but I do not recommend using them, since animals often experience various diseases of the uterus and changes in hormonal status after their use.
Some people believe that castration reduces an animal's aggressiveness, but this is not true. The male becomes somewhat calmer, but, as a rule, the owner’s expectations are not met.
Some believe that by castrating their male, they deprive him of all the delights of life; this is also a misconception. By losing the testes, the animal is not morally disadvantaged.
After castration, there are practically no complications, especially in males. In females, since this abdominal surgery, complications are associated with infection, etc., which is why no one is immune. Males and cats recover very quickly after surgery; the recovery period for cats is slightly longer - the stitches are removed on the 710th day. It is better to castrate cats from 8 months, dogs - from one year.

Cost of the operation: 2000 - 3000 prices are constantly changing due to rising prices of drugs.
Under no circumstances should castration be performed at home, as this may cause various complications and undesirable consequences. In addition to the main purpose of castration (preventing reproduction), the operation is also performed if there is therapeutic indications, in particular, diseases of the reproductive organs. For now, castration is the only way to reduce the number of stray animals. The world has not yet come up with another means.

Castration of a male

Many professionals recommend neutering a male dog because of his sexual behavior, tendency to run away from home or urinate on furniture, dangerous habit of fighting with other dogs, annoying behavior of jumping on people or other dogs, displays of aggression, and the dog's predisposition to testicular cancer. In some cases, castration can be considered as best solution, in others - no. Many dog ​​owners see this as a quick fix, but this is the wrong approach. It is more correct to carefully study the dog's behavior and make sure that such a radical decision is justified.
Some behavioral problems, such as dog fighting and the possibility of bodily injury, including to the testicles, may justify neutering. Some medical problems, such as severe hormonal imbalances, can lead to behavioral problems such as uncontrollable lunging at other dogs, frequent erections, or spontaneous ejaculation. In such cases, castration is completely justified.

Basic Rule What you should follow when considering castration is to avoid drastic, irreversible decisions when you can resort to more simple measures. If your dog attacks other dogs, runs away from home, or is mildly aggressive, treat it as a behavioral problem that requires well-thought-out obedience training interventions. If you don't understand a problem, you can't find a solution. But you always have the opportunity to make a choice later.
Just like any other obedience decision, a training regimen must first be determined. Use the training methods described in this book as a basis to set the stage for the behavior changes you desire. The dog must be convinced of your determination and reliability. Some changes take time to happen.

You should focus on the behavior pattern of a male dog when he is near a female who is in heat. He gets very excited. This is especially true for male dogs who have already had experience of bonding with a female dog during heat. All male dogs experience emotional and physical torment when they are near a female in heat. They moan and howl. They cannot calm down until they are completely exhausted. They cannot concentrate their attention on obedience training or anything else. All their thoughts are focused on satisfying desire. Even if the bitch is taken away, they still cannot come to their senses for a long time. The more often they are subjected to this torture, the more difficult it is for them to do it later. We are convinced that if you expose your dog to this type of trauma, you are cutting years off his life. But the solution is not castration of the male dog. Often even this measure does not destroy desire. A sire who has often been used for breeding remembers this act even if he has been castrated. No, the solution is not to spay females in the same household or remove the dog from that environment.
There are obvious reasons why bitches in heat should not be used for breeding. A well-behaved and well-trained dog may ignore the distracting object, but the emotional torture continues.
If your dog is a monorch (descent of one testicle) or cryptorchid (undescended of both testicles), there may be many reasons to have your male dog neutered. If you breed dogs from this male, his genes will end up in the gene pool. Do not breed dogs from such a male, no matter how good his character is. If your normal breeder produces male monorchid or cryptorchid puppies, you may want to castrate this dog so that other dog breeders do not breed offspring from it. Some dog breeders withhold documents on dogs that cannot be bred until they are spayed or neutered. Some don't give them away until they're neutered. In some areas, even crossbreeds bring good money. They may become the new "exotic" breed of tomorrow. In addition, some dog breeders can always find ways to obtain and falsify documents, so until the last male dog is neutered, there is always the possibility that puppies will be bred from him.
Dogs whose testicles rest deep within body cavities, as opposed to those with testicular descent, are predisposed to testicular cancer. Constant increased body heat causes a pathological process. If a dog is diagnosed with cancer, then surgery is even more necessary. But the situation needs to be assessed for each dog separately, depending on age, health status, etc.
We have personally trained many full-fledged dogs and many neutered males. We did not notice any difference in the perception and reaction of these two categories of dogs. We want to repeat once again: do not resort to castration of a dog as a quick solution problems. Study all factors carefully.

Spaying females

To spay or not to spay has always been a controversial issue for both experts and amateur dog owners. Here we want to offer our point of view, based on both a personal and broad professional level.
Sterilization is not for everyone. Some veterinarians try to make this decision easier for people by spaying puppies at a very early age, even before they are given to new owners. If you don't intend to breed dogs, then you need to think about it very seriously. There are many reasons to consider. One of the arguments in favor of sterilization is that unwanted dogs are born in huge numbers, which then leads to their mass destruction.
Let's say that you have purchased a puppy that is 8-12 weeks old and you are sure that you do not want to have any more puppies from him. What age is best for surgery? On average, the operation takes 10-20 minutes. We believe that at 3-4 months it is too early for a dog to undergo surgery.
nutrition



Spaying females
To spay or not to spay has always been a controversial issue for both experts and amateur dog owners. Here we want to offer our point of view, based on both a personal and broad professional level.
Sterilization is not for everyone. Some veterinarians try to make this decision easier for people by spaying puppies at a very early age, even before they are given to new owners. If you don't intend to breed dogs, then you need to think about it very seriously. There are many reasons to consider. One of the arguments in favor of sterilization is that unwanted dogs are born in huge numbers, which then leads to their mass destruction.
When making a decision regarding a hysterectomy, you should consider the age and health of the dog, the frequency of heat cycles, the intensity and duration of these periods, the behavior of the dog during this period, the behavior of other dogs in the house, both male and female, and the reputation and reliability of the veterinarian who will Do a surgery. Let's look at these factors separately.
Let's say that you have purchased a puppy that is 8-12 weeks old and you are sure that you do not want to have any more puppies from him. What age is best for surgery? On average, the operation takes 10-20 minutes. We believe that at 3-4 months it is too early for a dog to undergo surgery.
Females go into estrus between 6 months and one year of age. This is the range of appearance of the first heat. At 6 months they may go into heat and repeat every 6 months, or they may have a 9 or 11 month cycle. Before the first heat has passed, we do not know when is the best time to spay a dog, since after 6 months she can come into heat at any time. If spayed at random, without knowing the exact time of her heat, her uterus may become swollen with blood, creating the possibility of heavy bleeding during surgery. This is an argument for waiting about one month after your first heat. You should wait until your second heat to figure out the cyclicity.
When you have to undergo surgery, you always need to take into account the health of the dog. It is very useful to provide the dog with enhanced nutrition a month before the operation and a month after the operation. In addition, her diet should include: vitamin A or beta-carotene, vitamin B complex, vitamin C complex, vitamin E capsules or liquid, lethicin granules or capsules and some garlic. They should be used according to the size of the dog.
If your dog cycles more frequently - every 5-6 months as opposed to 1 year - this may influence your decision to have your dog spayed. Every heat is physical and emotional stress for the dog.
The intensity and duration of the heat cycle is another matter. If your female is not in a good mood, she is depressed, she is not eating well, then this is a warning sign and she will eventually have more serious problems. If the heat continues for more than four weeks, or if there is heavy bleeding, mucous discharge, clots or odor, this may indicate illness.
If her character changes too dramatically during heat, this may indicate trouble. A Rottweiler or Pyrenean mountain dog that changes its personality can be terrifying.
Other dogs in the house may suffer from the paws of a female dog in heat. She may become romantically interested in another bitch living in the same family, who may or may not reciprocate her feelings. She can become aggressive towards other females. She will torment all the males living in the house. They will lick her urine, whine, howl, scratch at the door. They will lose their appetite, and all their thoughts will be directed towards satisfying their desire. This situation, repeated several times, can significantly shorten the life of any male dog and lead to serious health problems. Usually the house is not large enough to safely house a male dog and a female dog in heat. Please don't ever try this.

Neutering is the most common surgical procedure performed by veterinarians. A veterinarian who is unable to perform this operation should not go near surgical instruments. Before you trust your veterinarian, ask his clients about him. Ask him for testimonials from satisfied clients. There is nothing offensive about this to the veterinarian; If your question is met with hostility, seek help elsewhere.
One of dire consequences The reason (in terms of money and health) that the dog was not sterilized is pyometra, an accumulation of pus in the uterine cavity. In this case, major surgery is necessary. The disease creeps up unnoticed, without making itself felt, and appears suddenly. Pyometra can be open or closed. Both cases are serious, but closed pyometra can result in death from extensive infection. Tumors mammary gland are also more common in unspayed bitches. These tumors often become cancerous.
With any surgery there are risks associated with anesthesia. But if you take into account all the advantages and disadvantages of sterilization, then this operation will still be the lesser of the evils. Whatever your decision, make it only after you have learned as much as possible about it.

Katie Berman, Bill Landesman. Training your dog

We begin to think about sexually transmitted diseases in dogs around the time when, after mating, bitches “suddenly” begin to get sick. And the answer lies nearby. Many veterinarians are now talking about a surge in sexually transmitted diseases among dogs. And the most common is the so-called transmissible venereal sarcoma. There are now several times more animals infected with this disease than five years ago.

There are usually no obvious symptoms indicating the disease (depression, refusal to eat, skin rashes) in the early stages. Over time, infected dogs begin to bleed blood in their urine. the main problem is that canine venereal disease is very difficult to diagnose. Due to the fact that it was previously extremely rare, many veterinarians are unaware of the existence of such a disease. For this reason, most experts mistake transmissible venereal sarcoma, for example, for urolithiasis and prescribe incorrect treatment. There have been cases when advanced venous disease led to death.

All breeds of dogs are susceptible to venereal sarcoma. It occurs in both males and females.

Sarcoma is located on the mucous membrane of the genital organs and is transmitted sexually. During sexual intercourse, tumor cells break off and attach to the partner's mucous membrane. Venereal sarcoma does not metastasize, but it can spread to the mucous membranes of the mouth, nose, and eyes. When a dog licks a tumor, it mechanically transfers its cells.
Transmissible sarcoma cannot occur “on its own.” Stray dogs play a major role in its spread. They are natural reservoir this pathology, infecting the “master’s” dogs, which sometimes run away in search of love.

The first and main sign to suspect the presence of transmissible sarcoma in a dog is the discharge of drops of blood from the genitals. Owners of bitches often mistake this for incipient or ongoing heat. In male dogs, spotting due to transmissible sarcoma is confused with a manifestation of prostatitis. With transmissible sarcoma, bleeding is usually permanent. Sometimes you can see the tumor itself: bright red with a lumpy, bloody surface. This loose, bleeding formation on a broad base resembles a cauliflower.

The main prevention is to avoid unscheduled, and even more so, street matings.

Since sarcoma is cancerous, chemotherapy is used as treatment.

In addition to sarcoma, the group of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) includes more than 20 diseases caused by various pathogens (bacteria, viruses, protozoa, etc.). What they have in common is that infection is transmitted primarily through sexual contact.

The most likely possibility of infection during mating is:

• transmissible venereal sarcoma;
• gonococcal urethritis (in other words, gonorrhea - transmitted only during mating, and inflammation begins the next day; signs - painful and frequent urination);
• chlamydia (a disease similar to gonorrhea, only caused by other microbes - chlamydia; develops on the 3-5th day after breeding dogs).

In addition to the above ailments, dogs can become sexually infected with slightly less common, but by no means less dangerous staphylococcosis, streptococcosis, and brucellosis. These infections are very dangerous for both males and females and their puppies.

Prevention venereal diseases in dogs includes

1. douching after mating with a solution of chlorhexidine bigluconate 0.05%
2. To reassure yourself, it would be useful to do a microflora analysis (bacteriological studies).
3. reasonable restraint has never hurt anyone - regulation of mating activity and pickiness in this regard is perhaps one of the most effective methods of preventing STDs in dogs.

For reference

Staphylococcosis. The most common form is staphylococcal plaques on the skin. The predominant localization of lesions is the groin area, back, croup, hips. During mating, the mucous membrane of the genital tract becomes very vulnerable, and if one of the animals was a carrier of staphylococcus, after mating a clinical picture may develop: against the background of general itching, round, flaky plaques with a dark center appear. Staphylococcal rashes often accompany chronic allergic otitis and dermatitis, the appearance of symptoms of vaginal inflammation and endometritis. Carriage of the infection in the mother can result in purulent conjunctivitis, otitis media, acne, and vaginitis in puppies.
Streptococcosis. Infection. Method of transmission: contact and airborne droplets. The diagnosis is made based on the results of bacteriological examination. The main source of the pathogen is sick animals.

It is characterized by severe septic phenomena, inflammation of the respiratory system, gastrointestinal tract and joints. In adult animals - endometritis and mastitis.

Young animals are affected from the first days of life to 3-4 months. In the acute form, body temperature rises to 41-42°C, loss of appetite and depression are observed, mucous membranes of the eyes and oral cavity become red, purulent discharge begins from the eyes and nostrils. The death of the animal occurs within 24-48 hours. In non-acute cases, a cough, mucopurulent discharge from the nose, diarrhea mixed with blood, and swelling of the joints appear on the 3-4th day. The chronic course is typical in animals older than 2 months of age. Patients develop purulent discharge from the nose and a wet, painful cough.
Brucellosis. An infectious, predominantly chronic disease of animals, characterized by damage to many life support systems, dysfunction of the vascular, digestive, genitourinary and reproductive systems.
In bitches, brucellosis is manifested by abortions and retention of the placenta, the birth of non-viable young animals, and infertility; in males - orchitis (inflammation of the testicle). Possible joint inflammation.
The source of the pathogen is sick animals that excrete the infection during abortion, during childbirth, mating, with feces, urine, and milk.

The main route of infection is contact, through the mucous membrane, during mating, through the skin (damaged and undamaged). Newborn animals can become infected from a sick mother, as well as when they are artificially fed milk contaminated with Brucella.

A frequent and sometimes only sign of the disease in females is repeated fruitless matings with obviously healthy males, that is, those from which other females give viable offspring.
Cases of the course of the disease without damage to the genital tract are described, when deviations from the normal state are expressed in fever, swollen lymph nodes, loss of appetite, indigestion, liver enlargement, weight loss and nervous phenomena.

Kidney diseases in dogs are registered more often than in other animals; the likelihood of their occurrence increases with age and is determined by anatomy. physiological characteristics. Dogs' kidneys are adapted to excrete the breakdown products of animal protein. At the same time, acidic urine is released, in which pathological microorganisms do not multiply. Animals receiving plant foods, produce alkaline urine, which favors the development of pathological microflora.

More than 50% of dogs over the age of 8 years have pathological changes in both kidneys during clinical examination, and in 80% - during histological examination. The causes of the disease, which develops unnoticed over many years, are infections, allergic, chemical and physical influences.

The direct communication of the urinary tubules of the kidney with the pelvis facilitates the spread of infection.

The ureters, bladder and urethra, on the contrary, become inflamed much less frequently, being very resistant to pathological factors and infection.

Symptoms indicating a disease of the urinary organs:

– pain syndrome in the urinary organs (includes a combination of the following symptoms: frequent (pollakiuria) or painful (dysuria, stranguria) urination, arching of the back, desire to lie in a cold place, soreness of the back muscles, transient paresis of the pelvic limbs);

– nephrotic syndrome (edema, hypoproteinemia, cylindrouria, oliguria);

– uremic syndrome (apathy, anorexia, vomiting, increased blood urea and creatinine concentrations, anuria, recurrent diarrhea, urine odor from the mouth);

– osteorenal syndrome (osteodystrophy, hypocalcemia, bone deformation and osteoporosis);

– syndrome renal eclampsia(tonic-clonic seizures, nephrotic syndrome, episcleral vascular injection).

Features of the urinary system of dogs

The urinary system of dogs includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. The latter opens into the organs of the reproductive system, while forming the urogenital canal in males and the genitourinary vestibule in females.

The bladder is located on the pubic bones and is exceptionally spacious. As it fills, it descends into the pubic area.

A dog's kidneys are bean-shaped. These are single-papillary organs, short, thick and smooth, located retroperitoneally (retroperitoneal). The right one is located at the level of 1-3 lumbar vertebrae, forming a depression on the liver. The left one is located at the level of the 2nd-4th lumbar vertebrae; in a standing dog it can be felt in the anterior corner of the hungry fossa.

The renal papilla is comb-shaped and opens into the pelvis, which protrudes noticeably at the anterior and posterior ends of the kidney. Renal lobes 12-17. They are detected only by the location of the interlobar vessels. The absence of renal calyces (the urinary tubules of the kidney communicate directly with the pelvis) facilitates the spread of infection from the parenchyma or interstitium to the pelvis and vice versa. In this regard, a significant species feature is the high predisposition of dogs to auto-allergies.

Bladder: 1 – fundus, 2 – caudal artery, 3 – median ligament.

Female reproductive system

The ovaries of an adult female are flattened and smooth, about 2 cm in diameter. Located in the bag at the level of the 3rd-4th lumbar vertebrae. The bursa is a fold of the serous membrane in which, hiding the ovary, can accumulate adipose tissue.

Oviduct(about 3 mm in diameter, 4-10 cm long) almost surrounds the ovary in the funnel area and, slightly bending, flows into the horn of the uterus.

The uterus is bicornuate. Straight horns, 10-15 cm long, 0.5-1 cm thick, diverge in a V-shape. The right horn may be longer than the left. Pregnancy (58-65 days) occurs in the horns. The body is thin-walled, 4-6 times shorter than the horns, has an internal septum (depth up to 1.5 cm). The neck is thick-walled, with longitudinal and transverse folds, with a vaginal portion. The non-pregnant uterus is located partly in the pelvic cavity (under the rectum and above the bladder), partly in the pubic region.

The vagina is 10-14 cm long, 1.5 cm wide. Under the mucous membrane in the genitourinary vestibule there is a cavernous body, which, when filled with blood during mating, greatly narrows the lumen of the vestibule - the paired bulb. The vestibular glands may be absent in the ventral wall. The labia of the vulva have the appearance of ridges with a sharp ventral angle.

The clitoris is highly developed, its body is immersed in the wall of the vestibule, the head is hidden in the prepuce of the clitoris.

Male reproductive system

The penis is straight with a long, cylindrical head. At the base of the head is the bone os penis; in large dogs its length is up to 8-10 cm. It is built up in front with cartilage or fibrous tissue. Its upper edge is convex, and below there is a groove for the genitourinary canal. The corpora cavernosa are well developed in the penis and urogenital canal. The bone is covered by the corpus spongiosum of the glans, and at the caudal end of the glans by the bulb of the penis. Blood from the corpus spongiosum enters the bulb and the internal pudendal veins. The latter are compressed by the constrictor muscle: this complicates the outflow of blood during sexual intercourse, increasing its duration in dogs.

At the base of the head, on the leaves of the prepuce there are lymphatic follicles and a corolla of preputial glands. The urogenital canal opens at the end of the head.

The crotch of dogs is short. The scrotum is located caudoventral to the ischial tuberosities, close to the anus. The testes have a rounded-elliptical shape. The mediastinum, lying closer to the center, is well developed. 14-17 seminiferous tubules emerge into the head of the epididymis.

The epididymis with a thickened, well-developed head and tail, large.

The spermatic cord is directed obliquely and is long. In the vas deferens, only the wall part of the prostate gland is developed from the accessory glands. It is yellowish in color, dense, large, and consists of two lobes separated by a weak groove. The vesicular and bulbous parts of the prostate gland are absent.

Penis

Penis (continued)

Nephritis

Nephritis is a rapidly occurring inflammation of the kidney parenchyma of an immunoallergic nature with predominant damage to the glomerular vessels (glomerulonephritis) and the transition of inflammation to the interstitial tissue. According to the course, nephritis is distinguished between acute and chronic, and according to localization - diffuse and focal. Nephritis accounts for 57% of all kidney diseases.

¦ ETIOLOGY AND PATHOGENESIS

Acute jade may occur after transmission of viral or bacterial infections(plague, viral hepatitis, canine parvovirus enteritis, colibacillosis), as well as leptospirosis, due to poisoning, hypothermia, injury and other reasons. The development of nephritis is promoted by foci of chronic infection (tonsillitis, pyometra). Sensitizing factors are stress, the nature of feeding, living conditions, hypothermia of dogs, which changes the course of immunological reactions and causes a reflex disturbance in the blood supply to the kidneys.

The pathogens and their toxins are introduced into the kidneys through the hematogenous route and cause primary damage to the kidney tissue. Factors that contribute to the retention and damage of the glomeruli by microbes and toxins: nephrotoxins, products of improper metabolism, drugs and irritants, some plants, as well as spoiled food.

The altered proteins cause the production of corresponding antibodies in the reticuloendothelial system. The latter, forming complexes with antigens, are fixed in the renal glomeruli (secondary damage). Inflammation spreads to the interstitial tissue ( interstitial nephritis), tubules, walls of the pelvis and the entire kidney.

In acute diffuse glomerulonephritis, both kidneys are affected, the vessels of other organs and tissues are involved in the process, but urinary dysfunction dominates.

¦ SYMPTOMS

At the onset of the disease, depression, an increase in body temperature up to 40 ° C, violent vomiting and short-term paresis of the pelvic limbs are observed; appetite decreases. Dogs often take an unnatural position to urinate. The urine is cloudy, from light red to brown, usually of high density, contains a lot of leukocytes, red blood cells, tubular epithelium, casts and salts.

In the acute phase of glomerulonephritis, oliguria, hematuria and proteinuria are detected, as well as bilateral kidney enlargement on radiographs. Palpation of the kidneys in the lumbar region causes anxiety in animals. Swelling of the abdomen, intermaxillary space, thighs, eyelids, dyspepsia, pale mucous membranes are noted. Thirst increases. Hypertrophy and expansion of the left ventricle of the heart with a hard, tense or weakened pulse and an accent of the second tone on the aorta are recorded; increased diastolic tone, systolic murmurs, stagnation of blood in the pulmonary circle. Cyanosis of the mucous membranes occurs, venous pressure increases.

From the respiratory system, shortness of breath and congestive moist rales are noted.

Blood contains a lot of water, its density is reduced. In severe cases, symptoms of azotemic uremia occur (drowsiness, constriction of the pupil, complete refusal to feed, convulsions).

Acute nephritis can last 1-2 weeks and end in recovery or death. If the disease drags on for a long time, it can develop into chronic form diffuse nephritis.

¦ DIAGNOSIS

Most characteristic symptoms– sudden appearance of proteinuria in combination with hypertension and edema.

IN differential diagnosis it is necessary to exclude pyelitis, urocystitis, and urolithiasis. Nephrosis, as a rule, occurs without hematuria, cardiac hypertrophy, or increased blood pressure. Chronic nephritis differs from acute nephritis in the duration of its course and the often alternating stages of improvement and deterioration of the patient’s condition.

Assign rich in protein diet, cephalosporin antibiotics (but if urea readings in the blood are above 25 mmol/l - only nitrofuran drugs).

Prednisolone, aminophylline and strophanthin. Intravenous drip - mannitol and rheopolyglucin (in cases of severe oliguria). For azotemia, peritoneal dialysis is performed.

¦ POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

As a result of blood overflow of the pulmonary system, bronchitis and bronchopneumonia are possible.

Pyelonephritis

Pyelonephritis is called inflammation of the renal pelvis and kidneys.

¦ ETIOLOGY

The disease occurs as a result of hematogenous entry of the infectious agent from a purulent focus; an ascending route of its entry from purulent foci in the urinary tract and genitals, and a lymphogenous route from the intestines is possible.

Sensitizing factors are increased pressure in the pelvis and urinary tract, impaired circulation in the kidneys, as well as various types of hypothermia.

¦ SYMPTOMS

Symptoms depend on whether the lesion is unilateral or bilateral.

In the acute course of the disease, fever, loss of appetite, exhaustion, increased heart rate and breathing are noted. Increased sensitivity to palpation in the kidney area, painful and frequent urination is recorded.

The urine is cloudy, contains up to 2% protein, as well as blood and grayish-yellowish, mucopurulent clots. The sediment contains renal epithelium and purulent bodies. Neutrophilic leukocytosis is recorded in the blood. The density of urine decreases. A purulent mass is discharged from the vagina.

Sometimes the disease occurs at lightning speed: depression, collapse and death within 12 hours. In acute cases, it ranges from one day to three weeks, ending in death or chronicity.

See jade.

¦ POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

Chronic pyelonephritis in most cases it progresses to nephrosis or nephrosclerosis.

PYELOGRAM OF NORMAL AND IMPACTED KIDNEYS:

1 – healthy kidney,

2 – the line connecting the apexes of the sinuses of the pelvis forms a uniform oval-convex contour parallel to the surface of the kidney,

3 – pyelitis and hydronephrosis of the kidney,

4 – the line connecting the apexes of the sinuses of the pelvis forms an uneven contour with recesses,

5 – pyeelectasis caused by accumulation of fluid,

6 – place of obstruction of the lumen of the ureter

Nephrosis

Nephrosis is a metabolic-dystrophic disease of the kidneys of a non-inflammatory type with a predominant degenerative change in the tubules of the medulla.

¦ ETIOLOGY AND PATHOGENESIS

The development of nephrosis is associated with intoxication of the body and metabolic disorders (feed intoxication; disturbances of protein, fat, mineral and vitamin metabolism; poisoning with organochlorine compounds, phosphorus, arsenic; complications in some purulent-septic processes). Nephrosis often develops as a complication of nephritis and pyelonephritis.

When excreted through the kidneys, endotoxins cause degenerative changes in the tubular epithelium (up to necrosis). A circulatory disorder develops in the kidneys. Large losses of protein occur in the urine (up to 2.5-15 g per day) as a result of impaired tubular reabsorption. In this regard, the content of albumin in the plasma decreases, which causes edema, and the content of lipoproteins and cholesterol increases.

¦ SYMPTOMS

General symptoms: loss of appetite, weight loss, gastrointestinal disorders. Signs are recorded renal failure: swelling of the eyelids, limbs, weakening of cardiac function (frequent pulse, small filling and small wave), increased nervous excitability and the appearance of tonic-clonic convulsions.

Nephrotic syndrome is characterized by four main clinical symptoms: proteinuria, cylindruria, ascites and edema, cachexia.

In mild cases of the disease, urination decreases and the urine contains protein; the sediment contains degenerated renal epithelial cells, erythrocytes and leukocytes. The number of red blood cells in the blood is reduced.

At severe course nephrosis develops renal failure with signs of uremia. The improvement is accompanied by polyuria. Urine is light, low density, contains a small amount of protein.

When the renal glomeruli are involved in the process, nitrogen retention occurs.

Therapy is not successful. For nephrotic syndrome, prednisolone is recommended; it improves general state. Ascites is eliminated by drip infusion of mannitol. To normalize protein metabolism, Alvezin and Retabolil are prescribed. Antibiotics and vitamin B 12 are used as a symptomatic remedy against developing infection.

Urolithiasis disease

This disease is accompanied by the formation of sand deposits and various chemical composition urinary stones in the renal pelvis, bladder or urethra. The disease typically develops after the fourth year of an animal’s life, but, as an exception, pathology can occur in the first year (in puppies up to 3 months of age, when metabolism is especially intense). Females are more often susceptible to the disease.

¦ ETIOLOGY

The reasons for the formation of stones in the bladder are infections, disturbances in acid-base balance and salt metabolism, activity of the parathyroid glands, lack of retinol and calciferol in the diet, imported feed, and supplements. Microorganisms (hemolytic streptococcus, staphylococci, armored bacteria) play a major role in the formation of stones in dogs.

The disease mainly occurs in dogs of chondrodystrophic breeds: they are characterized by disturbances in phosphorus-calcium metabolism (hyperparathyroidism); in male dachshunds - due to a violation of their cystine metabolism. Dalmatian Dogs often form uric acid stones: their body has difficulty transporting uric acid to the liver in sufficient quantities to convert it into allantoin.

In dogs, stones of mixed origin are formed in the following order of occurrence: urates, phosphates, oxalates, cystine, carbonates, urate. Phosphate rocks and sand form very quickly. Sometimes gallstones are found at the same time.

¦ SYMPTOMS

Stone formation in the urinary tract is accompanied by inflammation in the urinary organs and impaired urine flow. Patients' appetite decreases or disappears, depression and drowsiness are possible. When a stone forms in the renal pelvis, symptoms of pyelitis may appear. After active movements of the animal, hematuria is detected.

In the latent period of the course (before the occurrence of blockage of the urinary tract), there are still no obvious clinical signs urolithiasis, but the results laboratory research urine and blood indicate its presence.

When obstructed, the disease manifests itself as urinary colic, frequent urge to urinate that cannot be treated, restlessness, urinary disturbance or anuria, and changes in the composition of urine. The disease often occurs as pyelonephritis or cystitis.

Colic manifests itself as attacks of severe restlessness. The animal squeals, groans, assumes a posture for urination, the pulse and respiration rates increase, and the temperature rises. The duration of attacks is up to several hours. Between attacks, sharp depression is recorded, the dog lies indifferently, gets up and moves with difficulty.

The urine is cloudy, with an admixture of urinary sand, its color is dark, with a reddish tint (admixture of blood), it is excreted with difficulty, in small portions, drops. When the urethra is completely blocked, anuria is recorded.

Palpation of the kidneys and bladder is painful. The lower wall of the abdomen is tense and protrudes. The bladder volume is sharply increased.

The disease is acute and leads to the death of the animal.

Urocystitis

Cystitis is an acute or chronic inflammation of the mucous membrane of the bladder. Urocystitis is an inflammation of the bladder and urethral mucosa.

The disease can be primary or secondary.

¦ ETIOLOGY AND PATHOGENESIS

Escherichia coli and Proteus present in the urine play a major role in the etiology. Urinary retention causes stagnation and decomposition, and primary cystitis develops. A common cause of inflammation of the mucous membrane of the bladder is its injury by helminths, urinary stones or sand. Hypothermia in animals, especially in the groin and abdomen, also contributes to the development of the disease.

Over time, inflammation leads to pathological growth of the epithelium of the mucous membrane of the bladder and thickening of its walls. Ulcerative defects (ulcerative cystitis) or complete necrosis of the bladder walls (gangrenous cystitis) may form.

¦ SYMPTOMS

Frequent urination is noted. As inflammation progresses, pollakiuria is accompanied by pain. Apathy, increased body temperature, anorexia, and vomiting are possible. The daily amount of urine excreted may be reduced. Urine is dark yellow or reddish, with an ammonia-like odor, and with purulent inflammation, a cadaverous odor, sometimes resembling pus in appearance; in its last portions an admixture of blood is found, often in the form of clots. Subsequently, the urge to urinate becomes continuous, although urine is not released or is released in drops. In such cases, dogs become very anxious; their pain increases.

A thickened, painful bladder is palpated through the abdominal wall. Sometimes, as a result of blockage of the urethra with inflammatory products, it is filled with urine. In the laboratory, at the beginning of the disease, an acidic pH is detected in the urine, then an alkaline pH, protein, red blood cells and bacteria.

The urine sediment contains many leukocytes, epithelial cells of the bladder.

Catarrhal cystitis with timely treatment ends in recovery.

¦ DIAGNOSIS

Urocystitis must be differentiated from pyelitis, urethritis and urolithiasis.

Differentiate from pyelonephritis by localization of pain. In addition, with pyelonephritis, urination is painless, and blood is detected in the third urine sample.

Drink plenty of fluids, apply heat to the abdominal area. To acidify urine and activate diuresis, it is recommended to add horsetail decoction to the water. Colic is relieved with baralgin, and antibiotics are additionally prescribed for 10 days.

For chronic cystitis, UHF diathermy is prescribed: 10 sessions every other day.

¦ POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

Inflammation of the bladder with delayed treatment is complicated by the formation of ulcers, necrosis, paracystitis, inflammation of the renal pelvis and nephritis.

Diseases of the female genital area

During the time from one ovulation to another, some physiological changes occur in the female reproductive system, the totality of which is called the sexual cycle. There are four periods in the sexual cycle.

Proestrum is the period of the beginning of estrus, lasting 7-10 days. The release of estrogens into the blood - estrone and estradiol - causes hyperplasia of the tissues of the genital apparatus, preparing them for the reception of eggs. Bloody-mucous discharge from the vagina is the result of blood leaking from the capillaries of the endometrium. The labia are swollen, the vaginal mucosa is hyperemic, the cervical os is slightly open. The female develops sexual desire, but she does not yet allow males to approach.

Estrus is the period of estrus, lasting 5-10 days. During this period, the female admits the male, experiencing strong sexual arousal. The vaginal discharge is colorless, the cervical canal is open, the mucous membrane is hyperemic and covered with mucus. From the 9th to the 12th day from the start of estrus, every 3 hours the mature follicles are opened and the oocytes are released - ovulation. Each oocyte lingers in the ovary for several hours after ovulation, then descends through the fallopian tubes and turns into a mature egg.

Metoestrum is the 3rd period, lasting 30-60 days. Sexual arousal stops. The secretion of mucus from the vagina decreases, the swelling of the labia decreases. In place of the burst follicles, under the influence of luteinizing hormone (gonadotropin), small yellow bodies are formed. They begin to produce progesterone, which inhibits further ovulation and causes restructuring of the uterine mucosa. Unfertilized eggs are destroyed.

Anestrum is a dormant period lasting 90-130 days. The female has no sexual desire.

The vaginal mucosa is dry and anemic. The yellow bodies atrophy, lose their yellow color and are called white bodies at this time. By the end of this phase, under the influence of gonadotropin, the growth and maturation of follicles in the ovaries resumes.

A disease of the female reproductive system is indicated by rare or, conversely, frequently recurring estrus, the appearance pathological discharge from the vagina, increased abdominal volume and increased thirst, enlarged and deformed labia, symmetrical alopecia, pseudolactation.

Anostria

Anostria is the absence of estrus as a result of congenital or acquired ovarian hypofunction.

¦ ETIOLOGY AND PATHOGENESIS

Causes: insufficient production of hormones by the anterior pituitary gland and thyroid gland, poor living conditions for the animal.

¦ SYMPTOMS

The absence of estrus is possible with anostria during puberty, adolescence, postpartum and galloping. Anostria of puberty is the absence of estrus at 14-18 months of age. Anostria after the first or second heat is juvenile, after childbirth is postpartum.

Galloping anostria is said to occur when more than 10 months pass between two estrus cycles.

Females are treated at the beginning of the year or in the fall, when they usually go into heat. Injections of estrogen are given in small doses (stimulation of the production of gonadotropins). Large doses inhibit the synthesis of gonadotropins. From the 4th to the 8th day after the appearance of signs of estrus, serum (menopausal) gonadotropin is additionally administered every other day. The first estrus often occurs without ovulation: fertilization will occur only during the subsequent estrus. If this method is not successful, then treatment is not resumed.

¦ MEDICINES

Estradiol - 4 injections of 0.1-0.6 mg every third day.

Serum gonadotropin – 25-50 IU.

Subostria

Subostria is a mild estrus.

¦ SYMPTOMS

Estrus manifests itself in usual terms, but occurs with copious discharge of mucus from the vagina without swelling of the labia. Palpation of the uterus causes its contraction.

Serum gonadotropin is administered 2 times with an interval of 3 days. It is recommended to breed the female 4 days after the last injection. If treatment is ineffective, additional estrogens are administered.

Prolonged heat

Prolonged estrus is an endocrine functional disorder associated with morphological changes in the genital organs; characterized by an increase in the duration of the proestrum or estrus phase.

Follicular cysts develop from graafian follicles. The diameter of the cysts is from 1 to 5 centimeters; they merge into groups with a diameter of up to 10 centimeters. Follicular cysts are clinically manifested by prolonged estrus with bloody vaginal discharge, mammary gland hyperplasia and fibroleiomyoma of the genital organs.

Cavities called cysts can form from unovulated mature follicles and corpora lutea in the ovary.

¦ ETIOLOGY AND PATHOGENESIS

Normally, the phases of the sexual cycle replace one another, the release of the next hormone into the blood causes the production of the next. Prolonged estrus is caused by overproduction of estrogen (chronic estrogen poisoning is a species-specific feature of dogs and is caused by low metabolism of these hormones by the liver). It is most common in boxers and small poodles.

Excess hormones lead to morphological changes in the relevant organs and disruption of their functions (extension of the estrus period).

¦ SYMPTOMS

Prolonged sexual attraction, prolonged estrus, skin lesions, pseudolactation.

Radiography sometimes reveals small radiopaque shadows (sclerosed ovaries). Large ovarian cysts are very rare.

There are four types of prolonged estrus.

Type 1. Extended proestrum period (more than 21 days). Males become excited upon contact. The female's labia are swollen, the mucous membrane is swollen and hyperemic, and there is watery-red discharge from the vagina.

Type 2. Extended proestrum period. Males do not get excited. In middle-aged females, swelling of the labia, slight red-brown vaginal discharge, severe skin itching, and acanthosis nigricans of the genital skin are recorded.

Type 3. Extended estrus period (more than 12 days). The symptoms are the same as type 2, but the vaginal discharge is not bloody red, but mucous, and the skin is not as severely affected. Pseudolactation, thirst, increased ESR and leukocytosis are recorded.

Type 4. Elongated early metoestrum. Females 10-12 months of age are affected immediately after normal estrus.

The disease is characterized by swelling of the labia, serous-mucous or purulent discharge from the vagina, enlarged uterus. The dog is very thirsty, there is no appetite, the coat is dull and disheveled.

Type 1. 0.01-0.02 mg of estradiol is administered and after 24 hours 100 - 500 IU of choriogonadotropin.

Type 2. 50-100 IU of choriogonadotropin is injected once.

Type 3. Therapy is similar to the treatment of estrus type 2, but in combination with a 10-day course of antibiotic therapy (gentamicin - 2 mg/kg, carbenicillin - 100 mg/kg).

Type 4. The use of broad-spectrum antibiotics for 10 days is indicated (ampicillin, oxacillin 30 mg/kg).

¦ POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

Pyometra.

Endometritis

Based on the nature of the exudate and the manifestation of the disease, catarrhal, purulent catarrhal and latent endometritis are distinguished.

¦ ETIOLOGY AND PATHOGENESIS

The disease is based on an endocrine disorder that causes an increase in the level of estrogen in the blood. This causes pathological hyperplasia of the endometrium and its glands, leading to changes in the walls of blood vessels. The presence of nonspecific microflora in the uterine cavity causes endometrial damage and chronic endometritis.

Chronic catarrhal endometritis develops from acute postpartum endometritis, as a result of infection after coitus. The uterine cavity is cleaned through the open cervical canal. Chronic purulent catarrhal endometritis is a complication of chronic catarrhal endometritis, or develops from acute postpartum purulent catarrhal endometritis.

Chronic latent endometritis is a type of chronic catarrhal with mild structural changes in the uterine mucosa.

¦ SYMPTOMS

Chronic catarrhal endometritis: discharge of cloudy, flaky mucus from the genitals, often mixed with blood, is recorded; streaky hyperemia of the vaginal mucosa; the cervix is ​​open. When palpated through the abdominal wall, the motor function of the uterus is reduced. Sexual cycles are not disrupted. After mating, fertilization does not occur.

With purulent-catarrhal endometritis, mucopurulent exudate mixed with blood is released from the genital organs, which is detected by palpation through the abdominal wall and reveals an enlarged uterus without rigidity with fluctuation.

The mucous membranes of the vagina and the mouth of the cervix are severely hyperemic and edematous. Sexual cycles are disrupted.

With latent endometritis, sexual cycles are not disrupted, but fertilization does not occur after mating. The cervix opens during estrus.

¦ DIAGNOSIS

The diagnosis of latent endometritis can be established using a laboratory express method for sulfur-containing amino acids, which are found in mucus during inflammation.

Good feeding and content, exercise.

Sinestrol and antibiotics are administered intramuscularly for 3-4 days. The uterus is massaged through the abdominal wall in the direction from the chest to the pelvis 2 times a day for 5-8 days. Tissue preparations are injected under the skin 2-3 times with an interval of 7 days. For hidden endometritis, the use of tissue preparations and uterine massage are limited.

Douching the uterus with disinfectant solutions is contraindicated!

Since the occurrence of endometritis is associated with increased levels of estrogen, the use of drugs that inhibit ovulation is indicated.

¦ POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

Pyometra.

¦ MEDICINES

Sinestrol 1% solution – 0.2-1.5 ml 2 times with an interval of 24-48 hours.

Penicillin – 3-4 times a day for 3-4 days.

Narcolut – 2.5-5 mg for 5 months (do not give in proestrum: risk of pyometra!).

Pyometra

Pyometra is a multisystem disease characterized by the accumulation of exudate in the uterine cavity against the background purulent inflammation its mucous membrane.

Pyometra develops in dogs in 80% of cases after repeated manifestations of false pregnancy.

¦ ETIOLOGY AND PATHOGENESIS

This disease develops as a result of hormonal disorders from chronic catarrhal and purulent-catarrhal endometritis. During the period of metoestrum, the corpus luteum actively secretes progesterone, the secretion of the uterine glands increases, uterine contractions are suppressed and the cervical canal is closed by a greatly expanded and swollen mucous membrane.

Fluid accumulates in the uterine cavity, and when microbes accumulate, it undergoes purulent decay due to the migration of leukocytes into it from the mucous membrane.

¦ SYMPTOMS

Sexual cycles are disrupted, the general condition of the animal worsens, there may be lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, the volume of the abdomen increases, at times the temperature rises, and sometimes purulent exudate mixed with blood is released from the genital slit.

Clinically, a small pyometra is distinguished, when swelling of the labia and abundant discharge of pus are observed, as well as a large pyometra, in which there are no described symptoms.

Palpation through the abdominal wall determines the enlargement of the uterine horns.

Laboratory tests reveal increased ESR, leukocytosis, monocytosis, anemia, hypoalbuminemia, hyperglobulinemia, azotemia, acidosis, increased levels of alkaline phosphatase, creatinine, and urea.

The contents of the uterus contain aerobic and anaerobic microorganisms.

Using radiography, you can observe an increase in the horns of the uterus; ultrasound reveals the presence of fluid inside. The body and horns of the uterus descend into abdominal cavity.

Treatment is surgical. It is practiced to remove the uterus through an incision in the abdominal wall, since once the disease has occurred, despite possible improvement, it recurs after estrus.

¦ POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

If there is a significant accumulation of pus in the uterine cavity, its walls may rupture. Purulent masses entering the abdominal cavity cause the development of diffuse peritonitis.

Pathologies of pregnancy and the postpartum period

Vaginal prolapse is observed in the second half of pregnancy due to feeding errors and lack of exercise. It is caused by an increase in intra-abdominal pressure in combination with relaxation of the vestibular sphincter and stretching of the perineal tissue. Partial vaginal prolapse is manifested by protrusion of the upper wall, observed while lying down and does not affect the course of pregnancy and childbirth.

Vaginal prolapse

False pregnancy

False pregnancy is a pathology characterized by physiological and mental changes in the dog's body.

¦ ETIOLOGY

Every time after estrus, the dog’s body experiences hormonal changes, regardless of whether there was mating or not. The cause of false pregnancy is the formation of the corpus luteum during estrus.

¦ SYMPTOMS

Symptoms appear 5-8 weeks after the end of estrus. The dog shows all the signs of pregnancy, including toxicosis. Swelling of the mammary glands occurs with further lactation. The dog is reluctant to go outside, shows anxiety, drags toys to its place, placing them under the nipples, and takes the pose of a nursing mother.

First of all, you should never indulge your dog; you should take away toys that it mistakes for its puppies. It is necessary to exclude dairy products from the dog's diet. Expressing milk from the nipples is not recommended.

As drug treatment appoint parenteral administration indirect and direct prolactin inhibitors: naloxone - a morphine antagonist (0.01 mg/kg of animal body weight 1-2 times a day until visible results); Bromocriptine is a prolactin inhibitor (0.01 mg/kg of animal body weight 1 time per day until the symptoms of the disease completely disappear). Side effects of using drugs of both groups can be nausea and vomiting, so 30-40 minutes before administration medicinal drug the dog is given one of the antiemetics orally - metoclopramide, cerucal, raglan: 1 tablet once 30-40 minutes before the start of the main treatment.

If a dog's milk comes in intensively, it is necessary to inject camphor (subcutaneously 1 ml 3 times a day for 1-2 days), give the dog bromcamphor in tablets (1 tablet 2 times a day for a week. To avoid mastitis, you should rub the milk glands with camphor alcohol or oil.

If after all the procedures the mammary glands remain hard, hot and red, you should consult a doctor.

Toxicosis of pregnancy

Toxicosis is a painful condition that occurs due to changes in the body caused by pregnancy.

¦ ETIOLOGY

Most often, toxicosis occurs as a result of minor deviations in the health of a pregnant dog.

¦ SYMPTOMS

Symptoms of toxicosis appear 20-22 days after mating and are expressed in apathy, periodic nausea and vomiting.

A change in appetite occurs: the dog either refuses to eat, or, conversely, begins to eat too much and greedily.

First of all, you need to pay attention to the dog’s feeding diet. It is recommended to provide additional vegetables (beets, carrots, tomatoes, onions, garlic, etc.).

If you refuse to eat, you should not force-feed your dog; most likely, the appetite will be restored in a few days. In case of increased appetite, you can introduce additional daytime feeding without changing the basic amount of food consumed (with the exception of added vegetables). You cannot overfeed your dog (as well as underfeed it). If vomiting persists, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Postpartum eclampsia

Postpartum eclampsia – acute nervous disease, which manifests itself as sudden attacks and tonic-clonic convulsions.

¦ ETIOLOGY

The reasons have not yet been clarified. According to the existing hypothesis, the disease is a consequence of autointoxication or anaphylaxis due to the absorption of colostrum proteins or decaying lochia, anemia or hyperemia of the brain.

¦ SYMPTOMS

In the postpartum period, and less often during childbirth, the dog develops anxiety and muscle cramps, eyes roll back, and foamy saliva flows. Often the animal loses consciousness and reacts to external stimuli by intensifying the attack.

The attack lasts 5-30 minutes, then the dog jumps up, looking around, but immediately calms down. In the intervals between attacks, no signs of the disease appear. The attacks recur after several hours, then suddenly stop.

The animal is given complete rest. Caffeine-sodium benzoate (20% solution 0.5-1 ml) or hydrogen chloride morphine (1% solution 1-3 ml) is administered subcutaneously.

If eclampsia appears in a bitch during childbirth, measures must be taken to complete the birth.

Diseases of the reproductive system of bitches

Infectious and inflammatory diseases of the genital organs

Sexually transmitted diseases

The list of STDs in dogs is as long as in humans. The main danger is chlamydia. It is difficult to diagnose, difficult to treat, and in most cases has a number of complications. You can suspect an STD in your pet if there is any discharge from the genital tract, especially after mating. Redness of the genitals and itching may also occur.

Pyometra, mixometra, endometritis

These three diseases are links in the same chain and can be attributed to both hormonal disorders and inflammatory diseases. Mixometra is characterized by the accumulation of mucous secretion in the uterine cavity. This usually happens after long period hyperestria (emptiness). On the background high level estrogen, the endometrial mucosa hyperplasias - increases in size. If the endometrium becomes infected, pus is formed - pyometra.

With even a slight dilatation of the cervix, one can observe the flow of purulent or mucopurulent discharge, often mixed with blood, from the dog’s vagina. In some cases, the disease heals on its own, but in most cases it requires treatment. veterinarian and prescription of antibacterial therapy.

When the cervix is ​​closed, pus accumulates in the uterine cavity, it increases in size, like the female’s abdomen. As a result of the septic process, the load on the kidneys increases, with the possible development of renal failure. The dog is lethargic, appetite is reduced or absent altogether. If left untreated, uterine rupture with the development of peritonitis is possible.

Endometritis– this is inflammation of the uterine mucosa. Purulent or aseptic, as discussed above. Aseptic endometritis can proceed sluggishly and for a very long time, sometimes for months.

Inflammation of the labia and vaginal vestibule

It occurs mainly in young bitches against the background of a reduced concentration of estrogen, which leads to a decrease in local immunity and infection with pathogenic flora. Or after trauma to the genital tract during sexual intercourse.

There is redness and swelling of the labia. There are discharges. Depending on the phase and degree of the disease, their character changes from mucous and watery to creamy and purulent.

Treatment is predominantly local; in more serious situations, antibiotics and estrogens are used.

Inflammation of the ovaries

Inflammation of the ovaries or oophoritis is uncommon, but can lead to serious consequences. Bitches become infected predominantly through the hematogenous route - in the presence of any general infectious or inflammatory process, pathogens or toxins penetrate the ovaries through the bloodstream. In the acute phase, the ovaries are enlarged and painful on palpation. Treatment is effective in the acute period. Then the foci of inflammation become sclerotic and adhesions form. At this stage of the disease it is recommended surgical removal ovaries.

Hormonal disorders

False pupishness

False pregnancy or false pregnancy is also called pseudolactation. Develops 1.5-2 months after estrus. The dog's uterine horns and mammary glands enlarge, and milk appears. This is due to the fact that the corpus luteum persists. In view of hormonal disorder, it is absorbed much more slowly than in healthy dogs, and therefore the level of progesterone in the blood turns out to be very high, which causes changes in the bitch’s body. In most cases, pseudolactation heals on its own - within a few weeks, all signs of false pregnancy decrease and disappear, but during subsequent estrus the situation repeats, and the symptoms become more vivid and pronounced.

Hypoestria

Decreased estrogen production. Against the background of hypoestria, infertility develops. It occurs both in young individuals and in females who have given birth. As a rule, it is a consequence of exhaustion or, conversely, obesity of the cat, which suppresses the production of the hormone in the hypothalamic-pituitary system. He doesn’t allow the dog to come near him, moreover, he shows aggression. Corrected by the introduction of hormonal drugs.

Anestria

Complete absence of estrogen. Most often it is a congenital pathology due to an abnormal development of the ovaries or their infantilism. It also occurs in bitches who have given birth for the same reasons as hypoestria, but with a more pronounced hormone deficiency. In the case of acquired pathology, it can be corrected with hormonal therapy.

Hyperestria

Excessive levels of estrogen in the dog's blood. May be a consequence of increased function of the ovaries or hypothalamic-pituitary system, impaired liver function, or the presence of tumors in the ovaries or brain. It is characterized by a long course – sometimes up to several months. Throughout this time, the bitch experiences bloody discharge from the vagina, the labia are thickened and swollen. He does not allow the male to approach him.

Neoplasms

Tumors of the genital organs

A very common pathology in dogs, especially in old bitches. Any genital organ can be affected, but most often it is the vagina and vestibule. Tumors can be benign (lipoma, fibroma, leomyoma), but most often they are malignant (fibrosarcoma, carcinoma and sarcoma). Malignant tumors the vestibule of the vagina, as a rule, has the appearance of a cauliflower or mushroom, located on a wide base. The “hat” is red or dirty brown with plaque or ulcerations.

Breast tumors

Benign tumors are also found, but most of the tumors are malignant neoplasms, namely carcinoma. Most often, middle-aged or elderly females who have never given birth or nursed their offspring become ill. Upon palpation, the tumor is easy to limit; it is inactive or motionless. Sizes range from the size of a tennis ball to a football. There may be ulceration on the surface with mucopurulent discharge and a red-brown border. Ulcers are painless or slightly painful.

Degenerative changes

Vaginal hyperplasia and eversion

In case of prolonged estrus or long-term exposure estrogen, the vaginal walls hyperplasia (increase in size) and extend beyond the boundaries of the vagina and vulva. The disease is typical for Dobermans, bulldogs and boxers.

Diseases of pregnant women

Uterine inguinal hernia

Develops against the background of enlarged inguinal canals or a weak abdominal wall. Part of the uterus, together with the fetus or fetuses, protrudes through the inguinal canal under the skin of the abdominal wall. It can be reversible and irreducible. It can only be treated surgically. Even if the hernia is reducible early stages, becomes irreducible as pregnancy progresses.

Uterine bleeding

As a result of damage to one of the vessels of the chorion or endometrium, blood flows under the placenta, causing its detachment. Fresh blood is released from the genital tract, possibly with clots. The dog is restless, and over time, weakness and signs of increasing anemia appear. Without veterinary care, the animal may die or abort.

Polyhydramnios

The amount of amniotic fluid increases. Most often from the 45th day of pregnancy. The volume of the abdomen rapidly increases, it takes on a barrel-shaped shape. Without veterinary intervention, the bladder or even the abdominal muscles may rupture. Puppies are born very weak or dead.

Uterine torsion

The entire uterus or one of its horns curls “around itself.” This happens as a result of falls, jumps or injuries. The animal takes a forced pose with a hunched back. The abdomen is sharply painful on palpation. Treatment is only surgical.

Abortion

Abortion is the death of all fetuses with termination of pregnancy, or the death of one or more fetuses without termination. Accordingly, it is called complete or incomplete. Develops most often during infection.

Pathologies of childbirth

Weak contractions and pushing

Contractions are brief and of short duration. The time interval between them increases greatly, bringing the process of childbirth to a day or more, and the interval between the birth of fruits to 2 hours. Without veterinary care, the fetuses die from asphyxia.

Violent contractions and attempts

There is practically no time interval between contractions and pushing; they are very intense and painful. Without veterinary care, fetuses may also die from asphyxia or develop uterine rupture.

Narrowness of the birth canal

It can be either congenital or acquired in multiparous women as a result of injuries in previous births. To facilitate childbirth, use sterile Vaseline oil and a loop. If this method is ineffective, an incision is made in the perineum. If the pelvic ring is narrow, a caesarean section is performed.

Large-fruited

Found in short-snouted or dwarf breeds. Requires a caesarean section.

Uterine rupture

May be complete or incomplete. Often develops against the background of violent contractions. When ruptured, labor ceases immediately. In some cases, the fetus(es) can be felt through the abdominal wall. The shape of the abdomen changes - it becomes flattened. Without emergency veterinary care, the dog dies, because... acute extensive bleeding occurs into the abdominal cavity with the development of peritonitis.

Placenta retention

If more than 2 hours have passed between the birth of the last fetus and the expulsion of the placenta, this is considered a delay. Requires urgent veterinary care, because the afterbirth quickly becomes infected with the development of sepsis and death of the animal.

Diseases of the reproductive system in males

Of the diseases of the reproductive system of male dogs, it is perhaps only worth noting prostatitis and prostate adenoma, resulting in difficulty urinating. Urine is released drop by drop. The disease most often develops against the background of infectious diseases. Which in some cases can also cause inflammation of the testicle and its appendages.

Antimicrobial treatment is prescribed, lasting 2-3 weeks. With proper and timely treatment, the disease disappears without a trace.

It has always been believed that dogs are distinguished by endurance and resistance to negative environmental factors. But, as they say, once a year a stick shoots, so you should know the dangers that may await your pet at every step. Modern veterinary medicine claims that we often encounter fatal diseases in dogs. Do not forget that large breeds of dogs are much easier to tolerate any diseases than small decorative dogs. This is justified by their physiological characteristics. Dog diseases The reproductive system of males and females directly depends on their breed, habitat and lifestyle.

The friendship between dogs and humans dates back to ancient times, but the reason for its occurrence still remains a mystery. Over the several thousand years of its existence, people, as we know, managed to tame and make more than one animal as their friend, but the dog has always occupied a special place among its winged and four-legged relatives. Why did this happen?

Reproductive system dogs

Undoubtedly, the most important reason that forms the basis of human and canine friendship is the animal’s devotion. Does humanity know a creature whose character would be better? Hardly. Living side by side with humans since ancient times, dogs have learned to forgive us for any mistakes, be it a bad attitude towards an animal or simply irritability. A dog is such an understanding and loyal friend that he always responds to us with kindness and boundless affection. Whether it is a purebred dog or taken from the street - there is no difference, because above all else there is sincere affection for its owner.

Over time, man began to breed new breeds, each embodying a set of certain qualities and an even more docile disposition. At the moment, there are about 400 dog breeds in the world, which have formed certain groups among themselves. The most important and largest group are service dogs, among which the following stand out:

• watchman (Caucasian Shepherd, Dogo Argentino, Doberman);
• customs officers (German Shepherd, Labrador);
• firefighters (spaniel, rottweiler, husky);
• rescuers (Newfoundland, St. Bernard);
• guides (Labrador retrievers) and many other equally important professions.

Thanks to their boundless loyalty to themselves, their work and people, service dogs have been monitoring our safety for many years, often sacrificing their own lives.

Service dogs are loyal friends and helpers of humans.

The second group is hunters. Exactly hunting dogs They were irreplaceable companions on foot and horse hunts. The most famous among them are:

• terriers capable of fishing out a nimble animal from a hole;
• greyhounds and hounds, which have incredible endurance and loud barks for baiting large game;
• Spaniels are known for their sensitive and keen senses.

In third place is a group of herding dogs, in the lists of which you can find border collies, mountain dogs, bobtails and some other breeds that are most suitable for working with cattle and just on farms.

The last group is decorative dogs (toy terriers, poodles, chow chows, bulldogs), not intended for a specific service, but capable of becoming a true friend for a person and giving all their affection and love.

By communicating with each other, a dog and a person learn to understand each other, create a strong psychological and emotional connection, feel everyone’s mood and give such important moments of attention.

Veterinarians are frightened by how owners often neglect vaccinations, considering them just a waste of money. Don't forget about puppies who do not have immunity due to the period of dental cavity formation. Old dogs also have weakened immunity; their body is not able to fight the virus and maintain a normal state at the proper level. The most common diseases among animals include the following:

1. . One of the hardest viral diseases among dogs. An animal has a chance to become infected from another animal through contact with saliva. The most common provocation is caused by street dwellers from the animal world; they can attack pets while walking. It is not difficult to notice the infection: excessive salivation, refusal to eat, wide pupils, and dysfunction of the swallowing muscles is also possible. The worst thing is that it is impossible to cure this disease - the dog must be euthanized while it is still safe for others. Also, the owner of this dog needs to visit the hospital to examine his own health.
2. Plague of carnivores. This disease is known because its pathogen enters the dog’s body through the lungs or food. Can occur in pets from 2 to 11 months. Bitches' milk is important for puppies because it contains antibodies against this disease. It is not for nothing that it is believed that the majority of the cause of canine plague is poor care. Among the most life-threatening seasons are spring and autumn, because it is then that the immunity of animals is weakened. It is difficult to identify specific signs of the disease, because at the beginning, 2-3 weeks, the dog may not give cause for concern. However, here are some of them: fatigue for no reason, lack of appetite, redness of mucous membranes eyeballs. If you notice these signs, you should immediately contact your veterinarian, remember that acute period of this disease capable of killing a dog within a couple of days.
3. Mowing meadow fever. It can be found in ornamental animals; the pathogen enters the body of a 2 or 3 year old pet with water and food. Signs of the disease: reaching a temperature of 42 degrees, refusal to eat, nausea or diarrhea, the male dog is dripping blood from the end. In the absence of help, the pet dies in 3-4. Today this disease can be cured with surgery. It is necessary to take the animal to a veterinary office as soon as possible and provide the necessary treatment.
4. Viral hepatitis. This disease, which is spread by a virus, often affects puppies under 4 months of birth. The virus multiplies in the digestive system. The source of the disease can be both animals and people. Signs of infection may include hard breath, lethargy, reluctance to eat and swelling of the eye bags. The occurrence of an acute form of the disease guarantees the death of the dog on the same day. Visit to the veterinarian a large share Most likely it will help rid the dog of the disease and cure it.
5. Cleft external genitalia is diagnosed in the first weeks of a puppy’s life. Defects are corrected through surgery, although, as practice shows, the reproductive ability of the animal remains a big question.
6. Cryptorchidism is a genetic disease characterized by the absence of testes in male dogs. These organs are brought out in males and are located in the scrotum. It is impossible to cure the pathology; it occurs in all breeds.
7. Inflammation of the genital organs occurs extremely often. In the first stages of development it should go away on its own, but sometimes due to certain circumstances this does not happen. You can become infected through sexual contact when harmful microflora, such as fungus, comes into contact with unprotected surfaces. This disease is characterized by discharge from the genitals. The inflammatory process occurs in males and females. In most cases, dogs are referred to venereology already at advanced stages of development. Inflammation can be localized to the bladder, and cystitis in dogs is not uncommon.
8. Venereal sarcoma. This disease affects males and females whose age ranges from 1-8 years. The risk of a tumor increases if the dog leads a wandering lifestyle or comes into contact with such animals. The development of the tumor takes up to 8 months, only after an increase in size do the first signs of the disease appear, which include bloody discharge from the organs of the reproductive system.
9. Staphylococcosis. The disease is characterized by the appearance of specific formations on the skin in the groin and back areas. The disease is often accompanied by dermatitis, as well as otitis, which leads to inflammation of the vagina.

Rabies in dogs is one of the most common diseases

All these diseases have characteristic symptoms, so the owner’s task is to notice them in time and take appropriate measures. Not all pathologies can be cured, but in some cases it is important to isolate the animal to prevent the spread of the disease and to protect other inhabitants of the house. It is believed that most diseases occur at an early age, so it is very important to provide proper care and appropriate conditions for the puppy, especially if you are planning to feed it yourself. This issue should be considered in more detail.

Sometimes situations occur in which newborn puppies are left without a mother, and then they have to be artificially fed. The best substitute Mom's milk is bitch's milk purchased at a pet store, but it is not always available for some reason. Then the babies are fed or goat milk, or 10% cream, or 1% kefir, or a mixture of cow's milk (for 250 grams of milk, raw egg yolk beaten with a few drops of lemon juice).

The temperature of the nutritional mixture should be around 37.8 degrees Celsius. Depending on their size, babies are fed from a bottle with a nipple or from a syringe with a rubber tube - nozzle. In the first week, puppies are fed every 2 hours, in the second week - every three hours, by one month old the interval between feedings is reduced to 4 - 4.5 hours. For one meal they give 5 - 7 grams of nutrition, increasing the single dose by a couple of grams as the puppies grow. At about two weeks of age they begin to feed scraped raw meat or raw low-fat minced beef, turkey or chicken. The serving size is about the size of a pea or bean depending on the size of the puppies.

The puppy needs good nutrition

You can give high-quality dry puppy food soaked in water instead of meat. In order to avoid the risk of introducing new food, a few drops of the drug Nux Vomica are given before the meat. When feeding, puppies should lie in a natural position on their bellies with their heads raised. Care must be taken to ensure that puppies do not swallow too much of the mixture and that it is not excreted through the nose. After each meal, it is necessary to massage the abdomen with your fingers clockwise to promote intestinal motility. And then gently rub with a damp cloth or cotton pad in the anal area to stimulate bowel movements. After using the toilet, it is necessary to remove any remaining feces. Breastfeeding puppies without a mother is a very troublesome task, but there is no other way to save little lives and raise healthy babies No. If everything is done correctly, you will be able to raise a strong and healthy dog, for which any disease will not pose a danger.

The reproductive system of dogs, like that of humans, has significant differences between females and males. Therefore, there are diseases that occur exclusively in females; males either act as carriers or do not react to the disease at all. Let's look at diseases of the reproductive system in bitches in more detail:

1. Pyometra. With this disease, pus accumulates in the uterus. The main reason for the development is hormonal imbalance, which results in an effect such as hyperplasia of the glandular epithelium of the lining of the uterus. The organ becomes thickened, the production of mucus is activated, which, when ingested by microorganisms, also acquires a purulent composition. A problem arises a couple of months after estrus; it may appear against the background of false pregnancy. Typically occurs in bitches who have not yet given birth and have had problems with regular heat in the past.
2. Endometritis. If the cervix dilates too much, the process is accompanied by the release of mucus, blood or even pus. Over the course of some time, the dog’s condition should normalize and return to normal. The volume of the animal’s abdomen increases; during diagnosis, an increased size of the uterine horn can be noticed. The dog feels unwell, has problems with movement, experiences... increased thirst and lethargy. At the same time, the heart rate increases, appetite decreases and vomiting occurs.
3. False pupishness. In another way, this disease can be called a fraudulent pregnancy. It is a consequence of hormonal imbalance, which disrupts the sexual cycle. The bitch may experience growth of the mammary glands and uterine horn, and milk secretion is activated. The dog prepares the place for childbirth and plays with toys. After 7-14 days, these symptoms disappear, although in the next heat they may appear again with even greater force.
4. Inguinal hernia of the uterus. Occurs when the uterine horn enters the inguinal canal directly. A round swelling forms in the groin area. When pressed, this formation disappears. Treatment is carried out exclusively through surgery. The disease certainly leads to the death of the fetus.

Inguinal hernia of the uterus

These diseases have a complex clinical picture and require serious therapy. Without professional help, your dog can face a slow and painful death. Therefore, at the first signs, you should definitely contact a specialist.

It is believed that dogs that live in apartments are much more likely to suffer from various diseases. This can be explained by the lack of fresh air and active pastime, because limited space does not allow some dog breeds to fully realize their physical potential. Therefore, for an apartment it is better to choose a dog that leads a more apathetic lifestyle; let's take a closer look at the breeds.

Many people at some point in their lives want to have a dog. Some people need a faithful friend to brighten up their loneliness, some people's children begged them to buy them good friend, while others just want to add even more fun and activity to their lives. If you decide to get a dog, but live in an apartment, then choosing a pet becomes a little more complicated. After all, not all dog breeds feel comfortable in a small room. In addition, if you have children, then it is necessary to take into account the breed’s resistance to stress. To live with children, you need to choose a dog breed with a very balanced and friendly character. An equally important factor when choosing a pet for an apartment is the animal’s fur. The dog should not constantly shed, otherwise it will become a serious test not only for the vacuum cleaner, but also for your nerves.

A dog's resistance to stress is an important factor when choosing a breed.

If you are not a fan of active pastime, but you just want to see always loyal eyes nearby, then choose breeds with a more phlegmatic lifestyle. For example, the Besset Hound. This is a rather lazy dog ​​that will not tire you with constant jumping and games. Such a dog is unlikely to agree to go down high floor no elevator. You'll have to carry it by hand. But Bassets have a big advantage: they are incredibly smart. They are perfect for older people and adapt to their lifestyle. Bassets are absolutely non-confrontational in their expressions and will get along well with children if they do not bother them with their games. Games with a basset hound will be limited to stroking its smart head and enjoying non-standard appearance. For active pranks with children, it is better to take a closer look at another breed of dog, for example, a beagle.

The Beagle is a small dog. Its dimensions fit perfectly into any apartment. The Beagle is “English” to the core: an intelligent, friendly, smooth-haired dog. This breed of dog will be an ideal companion for a very active and energetic child. Beagles get along well not only with children, but also with other pets, even cats. But from such an “explosive mixture of friends,” the owners will have to constantly sweep away fragments of vases and look for the necessary small objects.

The Labrador retriever has a calmer character. This dog has the perfect combination of intelligence, patience and energy. They are easy to train and friendly. Labradors are calm about children's pranks, even allowing them to climb into their mouths. But despite their kind soul, these dogs are excellent guards and protectors of all family members. Labradors are always positive and energetic with their owners. But still, this is a fairly large breed of dog, so when purchasing it is necessary great importance pay attention to the purebredness of the breed. After all, only purebred Labrador It is impossible to lead to aggressive actions towards the owner. This breed of dog practically does not shed, which also serves as an additional bonus for apartment owners. But it is worth considering in advance the size of the adult and the dimensions of your apartment.

If you are an amateur furry pets, then such a rare breed of dog as the Samoyed is perfect for you. She has a balanced character, long hair does not cause allergies and does not need careful grooming. But most importantly, this breed of dog feels great even in small spaces. This is an ideal option for a small city apartment. But it’s worth noting that Samoyeds love long walks. So if you lead sedentary image life, then this breed of dog will just set your lifestyle in the right direction with daily long walks.

There are a great many dog ​​breeds. Each is individual in its disposition, health characteristics and lifestyle. Therefore, before purchasing, you need to carefully study the breed so that it suits all your requirements. And yet, even if you know perfectly well all the features of the chosen breed, this still does not relieve you of responsibility for raising your pet. It's a lot of work. How you raise a puppy is how it will grow up, regardless of its genetics.