Are you a dog parent? Do you know what a heat cycle is in dogs?

You know all about the human reproductive cycle, but how much do you know about the dog reproductive cycle? 

Like human females, female dogs also get their monthly periods. However, a female canine’s period is known as heat, and thereby, dogs do require a little extra attention if they are in heat. You should understand your dogs’ cycle since it will facilitate your responsibility as a pet parent, prevent pregnancies, and ensure your pet gets adequate care.

 

Understanding Female Dog Menstrual Cycle - Heat

 

Usually, get into heat twice a year. However, this may vary depending on the dog’s breed. Large breed dogs get into heat once a year, whereas small breed dogs can get heat thrice a year. As we humans hit puberty, the first heat into dogs means they have reached their puberty. This period in dogs comes around 6 months in most breeds, but again, this can vary with dog breeds. 

Initially, dog heat might be irregular and can take up to 2 years to be regular. Female dog heat lasts for 21-28 days. It is highly advised to keep your dog away from male dogs during this period and for 35 days.

This heat cycle is also known as the Estrus cycle. It is a process in which a female dog becomes fertile to mate with male dogs.

 

1. Proestrus Stage: The first stage of the heat cycle is also the longest, lasting up to 7 to 10 days on average, during which the vulva becomes swollen and the dog is bleeding. This will make male dogs come over, but the female will not be ready for breeding.

2. Estrus Stage: This lasts between 5 and 10 days and is the stage at which the ovaries start releasing eggs for fertilization. Blood circulation will be reduced, and the dog will be fit to mate. Another sign that a dog is on heat is that she will start peeing a lot, in the process claiming ownership over a male prospect.

3.Diestrus Stage: The dog is now infertile and this stage takes from 10 to 140 days. The vulva will become normal, and the discharge will stop. Either your dog will be in the rest mood, or she’s pregnant.

4. Anestrus Stage: This stage takes from 100 to 150 days, and at the end of this stage, the cycle starts all over again.

 

How to Take Care of Your Dog When in Heat?

 

  • During a dog's heat cycle, it is essential to provide her with extra attention and care. 

  • Many dogs exhibit increased affection during this time, so it's beneficial to spend quality time cuddling with her. 

  • To help keep her amused and reduce anxiety, consider increasing the frequency of walks and potty breaks. Providing distractions, such as chew toys, can also be helpful. Ensuring she maintains a healthy diet and stays hydrated is crucial.

  • It's important to remain patient and understanding; if your dog has an accident during her heat cycle, avoid scolding her and speak to her calmly instead. 

  • To prevent unwanted pregnancies, keep her away from non-neutered dogs, and consider confining her to areas without carpet or upholstered furniture for easier cleanup.

  • Investing in good doggy diapers can also be useful. There are both disposable and reusable options available, and human baby diapers can be adapted for dog use by creating a tail hole.

If you are looking to prevent conception altogether, consider having your dog surgically sterilized after her first heat cycle. While the heat cycle can present challenges, with proper care, you can help keep your dog comfortable and healthy during this time.

 

How to Know If My Dog is in Heat?

 

  • Swollen Vulva: A common sign is a visibly enlarged vulva, and it will have a puffed-up look to it more than usual than it actually is. This inflammation begins at the onset of heat and may continue through the entire phase of the heat cycle.

  • Vaginal Discharge: First of all, its color may vary from pale pink and even red, with a tendency to become darker over time. For most circular connections, the discharge may become thinner, clearer, or more watery as the cycle continues.

  • Frequent Urination: A dog may urinate more than usual in order to ‘flash’ the chemical messages – pheromones that mean she is receptive to mating.

  • Excessive Licking: Bitches in this period may groom her genital area more to remove discharge and relieve itchiness.

  • Restlessness: A dog in heat can thus be described as restless, walking around, or having a squirmy kind of fidgety movement. This is because women act in this manner because of hormonal changes as well as an increase in sensitivity.

  • Increased Attention to Male Dogs: It can be observed that she may deliberately look for male dogs, get more excited, and show friendly signs such as having a wagging tail most of the time.

  • Flirting Behaviors: One obvious sign that the dog is in heat is ‘flagging,’ where she will move the tail to the side to reveal her vulva, should she be interested in mating.

  • Clingy or Moody: Some pet owners experience that their dog seems to look for more contact and wants to be closer to its owner, or the owners just feel that the dog is more grumpy or less interested in them than normally.

  • Changes in Appetite: An immediate effect of hormonal changes that is evident is an increase or decrease in food intake depending on the behavior of the dog.

 

Ending Phrase

 

Being aware of what to do at this time is very important for the benefit of all the dogs in heat. Your pet is all your responsibility to ensure that she is safe, healthy, and happy coming of age during her heat. Knowing what to do once your dog is in heat, you will be in a position to ensure the dog is as comfortable as you can make her. So just remember, there is a thing known as the ‘dog period diaper’ for the bitch in ‘heat’ as well as regular walks and all the additional pampering to keep her ‘furbaby’ feeling the best!If you have any queries regarding your dog’s condition or if she is facing severe bleeding or any severity, feel free to speak to us at Cessna Pet Store.