A TCI (transcervical insemination) is a form of artificial insemination in which a veterinarian uses a thin endoscope to see the cervix, passes a fine catheter through it, and places semen directly into the female dog’s uterus. It’s done with the dog standing and usually without sedation, and its main benefit is that it gets fresh, chilled, or frozen semen into the uterus without surgery.
Transcervical insemination is a popular choice for many dog breeders because it is far less invasive than surgical insemination and usually gives better results than simply depositing semen in the vagina, especially with chilled or frozen semen. If your dog has mated naturally instead, see how soon you can bathe your dog after mating.
How is a TCI performed?
A transcervical insemination is a specialized procedure performed by a veterinarian trained in the technique and equipment.
- Timing the heat. In the days before, the vet runs blood tests (usually progesterone levels) to pinpoint ovulation, since insemination has to happen at the right point in her heat cycle.
- Positioning. The female stands on a table, often with a helper steadying her. Most dogs tolerate it well without sedation.
- Viewing the cervix. The vet passes a slim endoscope into the vagina to see the cervical opening on a screen.
- Inseminating. A fine catheter is guided through the cervix and the semen is deposited directly into the uterus.
The procedure itself usually only takes a few minutes, and the dog can go home the same day. Depending on the semen and timing, the vet may recommend more than one insemination.
What are the benefits of using TCIs for dogs?
There are several benefits to using transcervical inseminations for dogs:
- No surgery or general anesthesia. Surgical insemination requires an operation; TCI doesn’t, so it can be repeated in the same heat if needed.
- Better results with chilled and frozen semen. Placing semen directly in the uterus is especially helpful for frozen semen, which doesn’t survive as long as fresh semen.
- Access to more stud dogs. Chilled or frozen semen can be shipped, so breeders can use a stud from another country, or even stored semen from a dog who has passed away.
- An option when natural mating isn’t possible. For example, when dogs are very different in size, a female won’t stand for mating, or there are physical problems.
- Less risk of injury and disease spread than natural mating, since the dogs never meet.
Because the semen goes past the cervix and into the uterus, more of it reaches where it’s needed, which can improve the chances of pregnancy compared with vaginal insemination.
Breeders planning a dog's whole career may also find our article on the pros and cons of retired breeding dogs useful.
What are the risks associated with a TCI?
As with any medical procedure, there are some risks associated with transcervical insemination.
Infection is a possible complication if equipment isn’t properly cleaned and sterile.
Other risks include minor trauma to the vagina, cervix, or uterus from the instruments, and some dogs find the procedure stressful. The biggest practical “risk” is simply that it doesn’t result in a pregnancy, usually because of timing or semen quality.
Overall, however, in experienced hands transcervical insemination is considered a safe and effective way to deliver sperm into the female dog’s reproductive tract. Call your vet if your dog has a foul-smelling or pus-like discharge, a fever, or seems unwell after the procedure.
What are the success rates of TCIs in dogs?
The success rates of TCIs in dogs vary depending on a number of factors, such as the age, health, and fertility of the female, whether the semen is fresh, chilled, or frozen, the semen quality, and above all the timing of the insemination.
With good ovulation timing and good-quality semen, TCI generally gives results comparable to natural mating and better than vaginal insemination, particularly with frozen semen. Ask your vet about their own experience and success rates, since skill and equipment make a real difference.
Pregnancy can usually be confirmed by ultrasound about four weeks after breeding. Once she's expecting, see our guide to the best dry food for a pregnant dog.
If you are thinking about using transcervical insemination for your dog, be sure to talk to your veterinarian or experienced breeder to learn more about the procedure and to make sure that it is the right choice for your dog.
What are some frequently asked questions about TCIs in dogs?
1Q: Is a TCI the same as artificial insemination?
A: TCI is one type of artificial insemination. Others include vaginal insemination, where semen is placed near the cervix, and surgical insemination, where semen is placed into the uterus during an operation.
2Q: How much does a TCI cost?
A: The cost of transcervical insemination varies widely depending on the clinic, your location, and how many inseminations are needed. Remember to budget for progesterone testing, semen collection or shipping, and a pregnancy scan as well. Ask your vet for a full quote in advance.
3Q: Does my dog need to be sedated for a TCI?
A: Usually not. Most dogs stand calmly for the procedure, which is one of its advantages over surgical insemination. Your vet will decide if a nervous dog needs any help to relax.
Conclusion
Overall, transcervical insemination is a safe and effective way to place semen directly into a female dog’s uterus without surgery, and it’s especially useful with chilled or frozen semen. Good results depend heavily on accurate ovulation timing and semen quality. If you are thinking about using transcervical insemination for your dog, be sure to talk to your veterinarian or experienced breeder to learn more about the procedure and to make sure that it is the right choice for your dog.
