When a dog reaches adolescence, its first estrous (reproductive or heat) cycle will occur. Each cycle has multiple stages; the estrus stage is when a female is capable of becoming pregnant. A dog in the estrus stage is frequently described as being in heat or in season.
Puberty (or sexual maturity) usually occurs at around six months of age, but breed differences may apply. Smaller breeds typically experience their first estrous cycle at a younger age, but huge and giant breeds may not experience their first heat cycle until they are between the ages of 18 months and 2 years old.
How often does a female dog come into heat?
Although the frequency might vary between breeds and from dog to dog, the majority of dogs go into heat twice a year, or approximately every six months. Giant breed dogs may only cycle once every 12 months, however small breed dogs may cycle three times annually. It’s typical for young dogs’ cycles to be a little erratic when they first start reproducing. A female dog may take up to two years to establish regular cycles. With the exception of Basenjis and Tibetan Mastiffs, which normally cycle in the spring, (domesticated) dogs do not have a specific time of year when they procreate.
What are the signs of estrus?
The vulva will expand or engorge with the first symptom of estrus, though this swelling may not always be visible. A bloody vaginal discharge is frequently the first indication that a dog is going into heat for a pet owner. Sometimes the discharge won’t be noticeable until a few days after estrus has started. From dog to dog, the amount of discharge varies.
The first indicator of a dog going into heat for a pet owner is sometimes a bloody vaginal discharge.
As the cycle goes on, the colour and appearance of the vaginal discharge will alter. The discharge starts off fairly crimson, but as the days go by, it thins down and turns pinkish-red and watery in hue. When a female dog is in heat, she may urinate more frequently than usual or exhibit marking behaviour, when she urinates in small amounts on various items both inside the house and outside while on walks. Her urine at this time of the cycle contains pheromones and hormones that let other dogs know she is in a reproductive state. For this reason, male dogs in particular will be drawn to female dogs that are in heat.
Male dogs may start marking your property with their pee in an effort to reclaim their territory if they notice a female in heat from a distance.
How long does estrus last?
When a dog is in estrus, she has the potential to give birth. A dog will typically be in heat for 1 1/2 to 2 weeks, though this can vary depending on the individual and can be shorter or longer.
At what stage of the estrus cycle is the dog able to get pregnant?
The female dog typically ovulates around the time that the vaginal discharge turns watery; this is the point in her life when she is the most fertile and open to mating. She could become pregnant at any time while she is in estrus because sperm can remain viable in the reproductive system for up to a week and still be able to fertilise the eggs. Contrary to popular perception, tying with the male dog is not a need for a female to become pregnant (for further information see the handout “Estrus and Mating in Dogs”).
How can I prevent my dog from becoming pregnant?
Having your dog surgically sterilised (either by an ovariohysterectomy or a spay procedure) before her first estrous cycle is the best approach to keep her from getting pregnant. Most veterinarians advise conducting an ovariohysterectomy before the dog is six to seven months old because it can be challenging to estimate when this first cycle will take place.
Is there anything I can do if my dog has been mismated, or accidentally mates with another dog?
If this occurs, you must speak with your veterinarian right away. Within the first one to two days following mating, mismating injections can be employed, however there are hazards involved. Your veterinarian will go over your options and any potential dangers.
Should I let my dog have an estrus cycle or a litter of puppies before spaying her?
There are no justifiable justifications for allowing a dog to have a litter of puppies prior to spaying her. However, the general consensus at this time is that spaying will increase a dog’s lifespan. More recent research has shown that some larger dog breeds, such as Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, and German Shepherds, may benefit medically from delaying their spay surgery until after their first heat cycle. Dogs can become pregnant during their very first estrous cycle, which raises the possibility of an unintentional breeding. Dogs can breed with anyone; this includes siblings, parents, and even children; a son can breed with his mother.
It’s a frequent misconception that allowing female dogs to have a litter of puppies will make them friendlier and more outgoing. This is untrue and does nothing but exacerbate the critical issue of dog overpopulation.
What occurs when a dog enters the heat cycle?
Your dog will go through four phases of her heat cycle, each of which will be marked by distinct physical and behavioural changes. The canine heat cycle has four stages, which are as follows:
- Proestrus: The beginning of the heat cycle, when your dog’s body is getting ready to mate A swollen vulva, blood-tinged discharge, excessive vaginal licking, clinging behaviour, and hostility toward male canines are symptoms of this stage. Additionally, your dog might tuck her tail close to her body.
- Estrus: Your female dog will be receptive to men during the estrus phase, which is the mating phase. Your dog may seem to be urinating more frequently than usual because she is leaving birthmarks on her body to show that she is ready to procreate. Even though she might be leaving urine stains in some places, her vaginal discharge will likely slow down and possibly turn straw-colored. Your dog will approach males with her tail held to the side when she is ready to mate, but she can act aggressively toward other females.
- Diestrus: This stage follows the “in heat stage and gives your dog’s body the chance to either revert to normal or go into pregnancy. Her vulva will enlarge once again, and the flow from her vagina will stop.
- Anestrus: Anestrus is a dormant phase during which no noticeable changes in hormone levels or sexual behaviour occur.
Vaginal Bleeding
Your dog is likely in proestrus and about to enter the heat phase if you see bloodstains in the vicinity of where she rests. During this stage, dogs may bleed for up to 10 days.
What are a dog’s four heat stages?
There are four stages in the canine estrous (reproductive) cycle. Proestrus, estrus, diestrus, and anestrus are these. Different behaviours, physical or clinical changes, hormonal changes, physiologic changes, and cytologic (vaginal smear) abnormalities are displayed at different stages. The various stages and the corresponding modifications are described in general terms below.
When we say “the dog is in heat” and most owners begin to notice changes, they are both in the proestrus stage. This stage can last anywhere from 0 to 27 days, with an average duration of 9 days. Male canines will be drawn to the female during this time, but she won’t respond. The follicles will grow and oestrogen levels will peak. The vulva will typically be enlarged and discharge will have a bloody tint. Vaginal cytology will reveal a variety of cell types, frequently including red blood cells.
When a female is in estrus, she is at her most open to a male. Based on behavioural indicators, this stage will last an average of 9 days, but it may extend anywhere between 4 and 24 days. This is the time when the fruitful period takes place. Though it softens a little, the vulva is expanded. The amount of blood in the vulvar discharge has decreased. Progesterone is beginning to rise while oestrogen levels are declining. Epithelial cells in the vagina are primarily cornified (flattened).
Diestrus is the phase that comes after estrus, during which the female is no longer amenable to the male. About two months pass at this time. Progesterone peaks 3 to 4 weeks after the onset of diestrus and subsequently drops to baseline levels by the conclusion of diestrus, while oestrogen levels are low. Regardless of whether the dog is pregnant, this surge and subsequent reduction in progesterone will still take place. Cytology reveals a return to basal cells and a decrease in red blood cells compared to proestrus.
Between one diestrus and the following proestrus is the anestrus. Although some breeds can go through this stage for much longer, it usually lasts for about 4 months. There is no longer any vaginal discharge, and the vulva is no longer puffy. The body makes use of this time to let the uterus become ready for the upcoming potential pregnancy. Basal cells are visible in cytology.
The hormonal, behavioural, and physical changes that occur during the canine estrous cycle are intricately intertwined. Since every person is unique, they could not exhibit the same degree of symptoms. With our doctors, you can discuss any concerns.
How long does a dog bleed when in heat?
How long do dogs stay in heat? The length of your dog’s heat cycle may surprise you. According to Nielsen, “the female should be housed and not outside alone for a complete 30 days.”
Stage 1: Signs a Dog Is in Heat
The swelling of your dog’s vulva and a bright red, bloody discharge are the first indications that she is in heat. Proestrus is the name for this phase. There will be a lot of licking, predicts Nielsen. A dog that is in heat may bleed for seven to ten days. The female will reject a male at this time in the reproductive cycle.
Stage 2: When Your Dog Can Become Pregnant
The second stage of the dog heat cycle, known as the estrus stage, starts once the bleeding ceases. Many people make the error of assuming that their dog’s estrus is complete at this point, but in reality, your dog can become pregnant during this second stage. She will accept a guy at this point, after the blood is finished, according to Nielsen. “This continues for another seven to ten days.” The vulva will soften and widen at this point.
You should be extremely careful to keep your dog away from intact males during this time if you do not want her to become pregnant when she is in heat. According to Nielsen, “heat is quite intense and instinctive for both males and females.” “In order to come together, they have been known to rip through windows, chew through doors, and even breed through kennels and fences. It’s a powerful impulse.”
Do people get pregnant?
Most species of vertebrates have cyclical phases of increased sexual activity during which the females are particularly attractive, propensive, and responsive to males. This recurring sex appeal is known as “heat” or “estrus” in mammalian females, with the exception of Old World monkeys, apes, and humans.
Should I cover my dog in heat with a diaper?
Dog diapers for heat are needed when there is bleeding. As previously indicated, a female dog in heat will bleed, and blood stains may contaminate items in your home. Thus, your couch, carpet, floor, and furniture could all become stained with blood, which is a formula for catastrophe! Your pet will bleed for a few days as well, so use Pet Parents Washable Dog Diapers instead of disposable ones, which will just increase the amount of waste in your home.
It’s also advised to put a dog diaper on your pet as soon as you see the warning signs, rather than waiting until you find the first drips to realise it’s time for the diaper. Dog period pads are also used as dog diapers for heat. If your dog is not accustomed to wearing a diaper, you should keep an eye on them while they do so. Before they actually need one, we advise putting the diaper on your dog multiple times while using positive reinforcement. Your dog may attempt to rip off the diaper or attempt to eat period dog diapers, but supervision and positive reinforcement can stop this. Protecting your home with Pawtect Pads, washable and reusable pet pads, might also be beneficial.
Dog diapers can help with frequent peeing while in heat. Keep track of how frequently your dog urinates. Female dogs will urinate more frequently than usual when they are almost in heat. Therefore, another indication that she is coming closer is if your dog is pleading to go outside more frequently or is frequently having accidents within the home (when she didn’t before).
When this occurs, it can be a very frightening period since you will feel powerless to stop the catastrophe from occurring within your home at any time. You may relax knowing that any mess won’t occur in your home thanks to Pet Parents Washable Dog Diapers for heat.
These adjustable, hook-and-loop dog underwear for heat help support the body type of your pet while giving her a leak-proof fit. In addition, unlike competing products on the market, Pet Parents Washable Dog Diapers are comprised of a soft, non-abrasive WickQuick patented fabric. Dog diapers for female dogs keep your pet comfortable by assisting in the prevention of diaper rash and pee burns.
You can use pads for dogs in heat in addition to dog period diapers. With your furbaby’s frequent mishaps and bloody discharge, you can use Pet Parents Pawtect Pads for additional leakage protection to ensure that nothing ever gets dirty. These high-quality washable pads for dogs in heat are manufactured with a robust binding and a wide, roomy zigzag thread in addition to the firm, straight stitching. You won’t need to be concerned about your puppy pads failing to stop a mess without falling apart thanks to the strong, triple-stitched binding. Pawtect Pads are designed to be useful in all aspects of your life. The possibilities are endless: on the couch, in the car, or in your dog’s crate!
Dog diapers can prevent male dogs from skulking. As Hillspet noted, your female dog will eventually start to emit a distinctive odour that will indicate non-neutered males. It is likely that your female dog is in heat and ready to reproduce if you start to notice male dogs in your yard or if they approach you while you are walking her. Avoid walking your dog off the lead or leaving her unattended in your yard during this period. Keep her secure and near by.
Your female dog can wear dog diapers to protect her private areas. It can prevent penetration and can’t be readily ripped into bits, making it an effective pregnancy prevention even if there are male dogs lurking nearby. A woman in heat should never be left unattended if a male could get access to her, even if diapers are typically efficient at preventing pregnancy.
Do dogs in heat need to wear diapers then? Absolutely! It should be a lovely experience to assist control your furbaby’s heat cycle by putting dog diapers on her. Watch your dog carefully, keep an eye out for these symptoms, and show her more affection.
It’s also advised to put on a diaper right away rather than waiting until the first drips appear to realise it’s time for a diaper so they are captured in the diaper.
The largest selection of dog heat pads is provided by Pet Parents. These are the ideal female dog pads for heat, and you can get them online to keep your home tidy during “that time.” Dogs of all sizes can wear dog diapers, from exceptionally little to extra huge. Keep in mind that during her heat cycle, your dog may act and feel slightly differently. Use dog heat diapers to keep her cosy during her entire heat cycle in all of her favourite places.
