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Stud Dog Supplements and Drugs

Drug and Nutritional supplements may be indicated to improve fertility in valuable stud dogs:

There are a handful of drugs and nutritional supplements that may have application.

Dog Breeding in Lakeland FLAvoid testosterone, female hormones, anabolic steroids, corticosteroids and chemotherapeutic drugs unless there is significant health benefit and they are prescribed by a veterinarian.

The following drugs MAY be indicated and prescribed by a veterinarian to improve male fertility: 

1. Antibiotics for evidence of prostate or UTI.

2. Antibiotics if mycoplasma is suggested.

3. Thyroid therapy if thyroid testing suggests supplementation is indicated.

4. Medications to reduce the size of the prostate if benign prostatic hypertrophy is suspected or has been diagnosed. These drugs include megestrol acetate and finasteride.

The following supplements are suggested based on anecdotal evidence to improve male fertility: 

1.Glycosaminoglycans. This is the most common nutraceutical category used for improving sperm quantity and quality. It is found in many formulations by many manufacturers. Many, like International Canine Semen Bank’s CF- PlusR, contain perna (green-lipped) mussels as the primary active ingredient. Anecdotal reports suggest improve semen quality in bulls, horses, and dogs. The theory of the mechanism, according to Dr. Roger Kendall is enhanced cellular reactions and amino acid uptake. There is no documentation to support the use of this product in the dog. The dosage for this application has not been determined; there are dosage regimens for the use of these products for other purposes such as improving joint mobility. Unless there is an allergic response, it is unlikely this product would cause any harmful side effects.

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2. Anti-oxidants. These typically include Vitamins C, E, beta carotene, and selenium among others. These are available from many manufacturers over-the-counter. They appear to act by removing free radicals, thus protecting the cells. In addition, greater sperm numbers in the ejaculate have been reported. There is no documentation to support the use of this product. There are anecdotal reports that semen concentrations are improved, that there are fewer head and acrosomal abnormalities when used, and semen tolerates cooling and freezing better when patients are on this type of product. Some components can be harmful if used in excess, so care should be taken when this is prescribed.

3. Fatty Acid supplements. These are available from many manufacturers over-the-counter. The reports indicate anecdotally that there is improvement in semen morphology when the dog has a high percentage of proximal droplets.

4. L-Carnitine. This nutritional supplement alters fat metabolism. This is available from several manufacturers and is found in some senior dog diets. Anecdotally, it has been reported to improve sperm motility. The mechanism of action has not been determined. It is included in

Thanks to Dr. Marty Greer for sharing this valuable content from her Breeder’s Library
Her book “Canine Reproduction & Neonatology” is invaluable to breeders and is available on Amazon.

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