Introduction

Canine breeding is a globally expanding business, despite the socio‐sanitary challenges posed by canine overpopulation and the increasing number of stray dogs in many countries (Dotson and Hyatt 2008). Following the COVID‐19 pandemic, the market for companion dogs grew significantly (Siettou 2021). Although there are no official data on the number of breeders in Italy in 2024, an estimate based on ENCI (Ente Nazionale Cinofilia Italiana) data suggests that there are approximately 1700 registered kennels. Successful pregnancy in bitches depends largely on appropriate breeding soundness examinations and accurate evaluation of the oestrus cycle. Ovulation timing is a standard procedure used to identify the optimal moment for natural mating or artificial insemination, thereby increasing pregnancy success rates and predicting parturition timing (Barstow et al. 2018). In small animal practice, commonly used methods include behavioural observation, serum progesterone (P4) assays, vaginal cytology and ovarian ultrasonography (Fáy et al. 2003). Although some of these techniques lack reliability when used alone, combining them can improve the accuracy of ovulation prediction. Additional methods, such as vaginoscopy, LH peak measurement and vaginal electrical impedance, have also been studied but are considered either unreliable or, in the case of LH measurement, difficult to apply in practice (Bergeron et al. 2014; Guérin et al. 1997; Jeffcoate and Lindsay 1989). For this reason, progesterone level determination is often complemented with vaginal cytology and ovarian ultrasonography to improve diagnostic accuracy. During pregnancy, various diagnostic tools can help evaluate foetal viability, detect abnormalities and estimate the number of foetuses. These techniques are essential in minimizing complications during gestation and parturition. Several recent surveys have examined breeding practices among dog breeders during reproductive, gestational and post‐partum phases (Blackman et al. 2020; Santos dos et al. 2020; Santos et al. 2021). This study examines the trends of Italian breeders to highlight any critical points. To date, on the basis of internet and training programme research, educational programmes for canine reproduction directed to breeders are lacking in Italy. Breeders’ experience can sometimes reduce the perceived need for veterinary support; however, poor reproductive management can result in technical issues, economic losses if pregnancy is not achieved and increased veterinary costs in case of complications.

Aim

This study aims to describe the reproductive management practices and breeding techniques used by Italian dog breeders. These data will compare breeders’ performances across the North, Centre, and South of the country, identifying management challenges and evaluating them in relation to current recommendations from the recent scientific literature. By offering a descriptive overview of current practices, the study seeks to highlight the main critical points in Italian dog breeding and provides a basis for informed, science‐driven improvements.