If a vaginal cytology of an intact female dog shows no blood, no neutrophils, and angular epithelial cells, what stage is the dog likely in?

In a vaginal cytology of an intact female dog, the presence of angular epithelial cells typically indicates the dog is in the estrus stage of its reproductive cycle. During estrus, the primary type of cell seen is cornified epithelial cells, which can often appear angular as they desquamate and are influenced by estrogen. In this stage, there are no neutrophils or blood present, as those would be more indicative of either proestrus, where bleeding occurs, or potential infections.

In summary, the absence of blood and neutrophils alongside the presence of angular epithelial cells strongly supports that the dog is in estrus, characterized by acceptance of males and readiness for breeding. This reflects the hormonal changes occurring where high estrogen levels lead to this specific cytological appearance.