When your dog goes into heat for the first time, it can be really emotional, both for her and for you. But don’t worry, we’re here to help! With some dogs you barely notice anything, while with others it turns the whole house upside down. Together we will look at what to expect and how you can best support your loved one during this special time.
How do I know if my dog is in heat?
Heat signals in your dog can be very different. Here are the most common signs:
- Swollen vulva (external genitalia)
- Bloody vaginal discharge
- Frequent licking of the vulva
- Peeing more often than usual
- Tiredness and need for more rest
- Restlessness or slight irritability
- Barks or whines more than usual
- Search for male dogs or escape attempts
- Hold the rod sideways
The good thing is that all these signals almost never occur at the same time! In some dogs you hardly notice that they are in heat because they behave completely normally and quickly lick the secretions away. Every dog is unique, just like yours.
How long does a female dog last in heat?
Heat lasts about 18 days for most female dogs. A lot is happening hormonally in your furry friend’s body during this time. This is why we divide the thermal cycle into two phases:
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- Proestrus (around days 1 – 9)
In the first phase, your dog’s estrogen levels increase dramatically. This makes them especially interesting for male dogs! You can recognize this stage by blood discharge, swollen vulva, and frequent peeing. Even if your dog already smells inviting, he still won’t let any male dog come near him.
- Estrus (around days 9 – 18)
Now we get serious: in this phase ovulation occurs and your dog is truly fertile. The estrogen level drops again, causing swelling and bleeding to decrease. Your bitch is usually ready to mate now. He often shows this by pushing his tail to the side.
After these two phases, there are two more in the cycle: metestrus (6-10 weeks), in which it no longer allows mating, and anestrus (100-140 days), the phase of well-deserved rest.
What should I do if my dog is in heat?
If you notice your dog coming into heat, there are some important things to consider:
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The scent of your female dog in heat is truly irresistible to unneutered male dogs! Even the best-behaved male dog forgets all commands when he smells this special scent. To avoid stress for everyone, it is best to stay away from dog parks.
- Change your expectations
Your dog may be restless, irritable, or easily distracted during heat. This is completely normal! Now is not the time for difficult workouts or high demands. Remain lovingly consistent with your usual rules, but be forgiving if she isn’t fully committed.
- Bathe your dog regularly
During heat, your dog gives off an odor that is not perceptible to us humans. For other dogs, however, it is a very intense smell! If you notice that your other four-legged friends are getting restless, you can reduce the odor: clean the vulva regularly with a damp cloth or treat your dog to a relaxing bath.
Did you already know?
The smell of a female dog in heat can even tempt neutered males and other female dogs to mount her. If your dog is already a little irritable, he may react violently, so keep an eye on him!
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Why does my dog keep his tail down?
At what age does a dog go into heat?
Female dogs experience their first heat during puberty, just as we humans experience an exciting time! For most breeds, this occurs around 9-12 months of age.
Small breeds often start early (from 4 months), while larger breeds take longer (from 12 to 16 months). In gentle giants like the Saint Bernard, the first heat can only appear at the age of two.
How often does my dog go into heat?
How often your dog goes into heat depends on her breed. Some have a 4 month cycle and come into heat three times a year. Special breeds such as the Basenji or the Saarloos Greyhound, however, spend a whole year between one heat and another. On average, you can expect this to happen approximately every 7 months.
Do dogs go through menopause too?
Here’s an important piece of information: female dogs go into heat throughout their lives! Unlike us humans, they can theoretically always get pregnant. However, the risk of complications during pregnancy increases in older dogs – you should keep this in mind.
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Is a bitch in heat always fertile?
Although the heat lasts about 18 days, your dog is truly fertile in only a few days. This fertile period is found in the second phase, estrus.
When is a female dog fertile?
Your dog is only truly fertile a few days a year, which is when his progesterone levels are at their highest. This usually happens between the 9th and 18th day of heat. Would you like to know exactly when your bitch is fertile (for example for a planned mating)? So a progesterone test at the vet is the most reliable method.
Can I walk my dog during the heat?
Naturally! A common misconception is that you can’t go outside with your dog when she’s in heat. The opposite is true: all dogs need exercise, and restless pooches need it even more. So grab the leash and let’s go for a walk together!
The only thing you really, really like! Make sure you never leave her off the leash. Their scent attracts male dogs from miles away. And during estrus, even the best-behaved bitch will do everything in her power to get mated. Without a leash it is almost impossible to prevent an unwanted break from the dog.
Should I separate my dog in heat from my other dogs?
If you have multiple female dogs or a neutered male dog at home, you do not necessarily need to separate them, because there is no risk of an unwanted pregnancy. See how your pack reacts. If everyone stays relaxed, everything is fine!
Can my dog play with other dogs while in heat?
Your female dog in heat should absolutely not play with male dogs who have not been neutered, unless you plan to have children. She can play with other females and neutered males, but keep a particularly close eye on her. Hormonal changes can affect mood: sometimes friends’ dogs suddenly become assholes. Be prepared to intervene if your dog is harassed.
How much blood does my dog lose during heat?
This varies a lot from bitch to bitch! Some lose up to 5 ml of blood a day, others only a few droplets. Large breeds tend to bleed more than small ones, but there are differences even within the same breed.
Does a dog in heat need a diaper?
Many dogs are real cleanliness fanatics and constantly groom themselves, so you will hardly find any stains. If you’re still worried about stains on your floor or sofa, thermal pants can be a simple, stress-free solution.
Can heat cause diarrhea?
Hormonal changes themselves do not cause diarrhea. But: Hot weather always means a bit of stress, especially for young dogs during their first heat. This stress can weaken resistance and lead to diarrhea.
If diarrhea lasts more than 2 days, your vet may prescribe a suitable medication. If the problem persists, there is probably another cause, so a stool test will clarify things.
Can I prevent my dog from going into heat?
If you don’t plan on breeding your dog, neutering is a good option. Not only does it prevent heat, but it also has other health benefits:
- No more unwanted pregnancies
- Protection against uterine infections
- Lower risk of mammary gland tumors
- Reduced risk of diabetes
Can I have my dog spayed in heat?
During heat, your dog’s reproductive organs have more blood flow than usual. For this reason we advise you to wait before sterilization, because if hemorrhage occurs during the operation, he will lose more blood. Unless there is an urgent medical reason, it is best to wait 3 months after the heat.
Heat is a natural part of your dog’s life, just like a diet that optimally supports him at every stage of his life. Do you want only the best for the person you love? Us too! Start with a few questions and discover Just Russel’s personalized food for less worry and more tail wagging.
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