Hormonal and Histopathological Fertility Assessments of Male Dogs in Kosovo

Abstract

This study is aimed to evaluate the concentration of certain hormones (testosterone, LH and FSH), in male dogs from different regions of Kosovo and to histopathologically evaluate testicular tissue from these examined dogs. Testosterone, LH and FSH concentrations were determined by ELISA and testicular tissue samples were processed and subsequently stained with haematoxylin and eosin for histological examination with light microscopy. For mixed-breed dogs, higher testosterone levels were found in the Malisheva, while lower testosterone levels were recorded in the Vushtrria. LH levels in mixed-breed dogs were higher in the Malisheva and lower in the Kamenica. Furthermore, FSH levels in mixed-breed dogs were higher in the Malisheva and lower in the Kamenica. Histopathology revealed different histological changes in testicular tissues, ranging from normal tissue structure to mild, moderate and severe structural alterations. It can be concluded that hormone analyses and histopathological examinations could be considered for fertility assessments.