Caring for Your Dog in Heat: Frequently Asked Questions
Are you a dog owner wondering about the ins and outs of your pup's heat cycle?
From understanding the stages of the cycle to recognizing the signs that your dog is in heat, this guide covers everything you need to know to properly care for your furry friend during this important time.
With helpful tips and insights from a real-life dog owner experiences, you'll be equipped with the knowledge to navigate your dog's heat cycle with confidence.
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What does it mean for a dog to be in heat?
"In heat" refers to the period in a female dog's reproductive cycle when she is fertile and able to mate. This is the stage when she is ovulating and is receptive to breeding.
When does a dog go into heat?
The onset of puberty in female dogs is marked by their first heat cycle, during which they become capable of reproducing. This typically occurs around six months of age, although the timing can vary depending on the breed. Small breeds may have their first heat at an earlier age, while larger breeds may not have their first heat until they are 12-18 months old.
How often does a dog go into heat?
This typically occurs twice a year or every six months but can vary by size and breed.
Do male dogs go in heat?
No, male dogs do not go into heat. Heat refers specifically to the reproductive cycle of female dogs, during which they can ovulate and become pregnant. Male dogs have a different reproductive cycle and do not experience a heat period.
What are the stages of the dog heat cycle?
A dog's heat cycle can be divided into four stages: proestrus, estrus, diestrus and anestrus.
Proestrus: This is the first stage of the heat cycle, characterized by the beginning of the hormonal changes in the dog's body. The dog will have a swollen vulva and may have a blood-tinged discharge. During this stage, the dog will not be receptive to mating.
Estrus: This is when the dog is most receptive to mating and is characterized by the peak hormonal changes during the heat cycle. The dog's vulva will be less swollen, and the discharge will be less noticeable. This stage usually lasts for about 5 to 9 days.
Diestrus: This is the post-mating stage of the cycle and is characterized by the reduction of the hormonal changes that occur during the heat cycle. The dog's vulva will return to normal, and there will be no discharge. This stage lasts for about 60 to 90 days, during which the dog may be pregnant if she has mated during estrus.
Anestrus: This is the period between heat cycles, characterized by the absence of hormonal changes and physical signs of the heat cycle. The dog's reproductive organs will return to their non-reproductive state, and the dog will not be receptive to mating.
What are the signs your dog may be in heat?
Swelling of the vulva: The dog’s vulva will become swollen and red.
Bloody discharge: She may experience some bleeding or spotting.
Increased urination: The dog may urinate more frequently and in smaller amounts.
Personality changes: Restlessness, agitation, lethargy: She may seem more anxious and may pace or whine. Note: they are not in pain.
Increased vocalization: The dog may make more noise than usual, such as whining or barking.
Increased affection: She may seem more affectionate and attentive to her owner.
Attraction to males: The dog may show increased interest in male dogs and may try to escape or become agitated when in the presence of unneutered males.
Licking of the genital area: The dog may lick her genital area more frequently.
Keep in mind that these signs can vary from dog to dog and that some dogs may not show any visible signs of heat.
What else should I know if I have a dog in heat?
Behavioral changes: The dog may seem more affectionate and attentive to her owner. She may also have a stronger desire to roam and may try to escape from the yard or house.
Mating: Male dogs may be attracted to the dog during her heat and try to mate. If you do not plan to breed your dog, it is important to keep her away from unneutered males during this time.
Keep an eye on your dog: During the heat, it is essential to monitor your dog closely, especially if you are letting her outside. Make sure to keep her in a secure area and supervise her around other dogs.
How do I care for a dog in heat?
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Most dogs can keep themselves clean during this time. However, if your dog's discharge is making a mess, consider using heat diapers and dog wipes.
If you're worried about your dog bleeding around the house, you can create a limited space for her to roam in. This usually means restricting her to easy-to-clean areas without carpeted floors or upholstered furniture.
Creating a nest for your dog to nap in with towels to catch the blood will help prevent accidents. Doggie diapers can also help control bleeding accidents.
Keeping her entertained and distracted will help relieve some of her anxiety and discomfort.
Extra walks will also help her to reduce stress.
Enrichment puzzles are also a great option for mental stimulation.
We also used long-term chews such as bully sticks or collagen sticks. I always recommend pairing these with a Bow Wow Buddy for safety.
➡️ Read more about long-term chews and the Bow Wow Buddy in this blog.
What supplies do I need when my dog is in heat?
Here is a list of items we had on hand in anticipation of Emma’s first heat cycle.
Doggy diapers - we tried 2 types of disposable diapers.
Hartz, size LL, were high quality but on the pricier side.
Simple Solution diapers, size L/XL seemed to fit Emma well at 55 pounds.
Old towels on dog bed
Special blanket down on crate pad
All of our recommended dog products can be found in our Amazon shop.
What do I do after my dog is in heat?
What you do next depends on if you plan to breed your dog. If you do not intend to breed your dog, you may choose to have her spayed. This surgical procedure removes the ovaries and uterus and eliminates the heat cycle. This procedure is typically recommended about 3 months after their first cycle.
The best practice is to consult your veterinarian since each dog has an individual care plan.
What I learned from this process
It isn't so bad! We were still able to go on daily walks. Emma was a little more tired than usual, but otherwise I did not notice any personality changes.
Our female adult golden retriever, Ellie, was interested in and sniffing Emma more than normal.
Emma wore a doggy diaper during the day, and it did not seem to bother her as I expected. Introducing the diaper for the first time while offering a bully stick (in a Bow Wow Buddy) helped make it a positive experience.
The bloody discharge was minimal, but I was happy to have an old towel in her crate for sleeping at night. She ended up having bloody discharge for 18 days.
Knowing that Emma's cycle could have started as early as six months of age, I had all the products above on hand, so I was prepared ahead of time. When her cycle began at nine months, I was happy I had everything I needed.
I hope this blog provides a better understanding of the physical and behavioral changes that occur during this time, so you can better manage your dog and ensure her safety and well-being.
Whether or not to spay your dog is a very controversial topic with mixed opinions. It is best to consult with your vet and do research to find out if/when you should spay your dog.
If you have any feedback, questions, comments, or just want to talk about your pup… We’ll see you in the comments!! 🤗
