Dogs’ reproductive cycles can be a little complicated. Having proper knowledge about how long are dogs in heat can make it easy to take care of and handle a dog in heat. In this article, we explore the duration of a typical heat cycle, its indicative signs, and proper care for a dog in heat. Let’s begin!
The Heat Cycle Is Defined: When Do Female Dogs Go Into Heat?
The heat cycle is when a female dog can breed and produce offspring. This cycle forms part of the reproductive organs and shows that the dog has reached sexual maturity. Also known as estrus, the first heat cycle in most female dogs is seen at the age of 6 to 12 months though the age will differ based on the breed of the dog as well as its size.
Different stages of the Heat Cycle
As a whole, the heat cycle in dogs can be subdivided into the following four phases:
1. Proestrus
At the start of the heat, the female dog’s body raises estrogen levels and prepares to release eggs to be fertilized by a male dog’s sperm cells. This is where she starts attracting males however she is still not ready to mate yet.
- Duration: 7 to 10 days in most cases.
- Signs: Marked by a vulva that swells, bloody discharges, and male dogs will show interest in the female, but at that point she would be uninterested in mating.
- Behavioral Changes: The dog becomes restless, has an increased rate of urination, and may have altered eating habits.
2. Estrus
This is when the female dog is ready to breed and receptive to males. Progesterone levels also rise in the body to prepare for pregnancy. If your dog gets pregnant, it is very important to take good care of it.
- Duration: In most cases, this stage will commonly last around 5 to 14 days.
- Signs: The discharge color may become pale. Mating can take place during this time, which is characterized by the maximization of her reproductive potential.
- Behavioral Changes: It is not uncommon for the dog to be more affectionate than usual or to be active and in search of other males.
3. Diestrus
At this stage, the female dog is ready for pregnancy and no longer receives males. If she fails to get pregnant, then the body moves into the anestrus phase, and the heat cycle is over.
- Duration: Ranges between 60 to 90 days if the dog is not pregnant.
- Signs: Gradually, the discharge stops and the dog becomes no longer receptive to males.
- Behavioral Changes: Most of the dogs stick to their usual behaviors, showing little interest in male dogs.
4. Anestrus
This is the resting phase which usually lasts for 3 to 6 months during which a female dog is sexually inactive and unreceptive to male dogs.
- Duration: This phase can last 2 to 6 months depending on the breed.
- Signs: This stage should not have any outstanding visible signs, because this is the resting phase in between cycles of heat.
- Behavioral Changes: The stage of the dog’s behavior remains unchanged, showing no inclination towards males.
What Is The Duration Of A Dog’s Heat Cycle?
The average duration of a dog in heat is about 2 to 4 weeks, which includes the estrus and proestrus phases. However, the length may differ from one breed to another. Smaller breeds tend to have shorter cycles while larger breeds take longer. A cycle is considered completed when a dog enters the diestrus stage, marking the end of the heat cycle.
How Often Do Female Dogs Go Into Heat
The majority of dogs have been observed to enter heat cycles approximately twice per year or every 6 months. However, frequency may also depend on other factors like breed, age, and health. Smaller breeds tend to cycle more often, up to once every 4 months, whereas larger breeds enter heat only once per year.
Symptoms That Your Furry Friend Is In Heat.
As a dog owner, you should watch out for these signs to know if your dog is in heat:
- Swollen vulva and bloody discharge.
- Increased urine frequency and marking territory.
- Variations in behavior like increased affection, restlessness or irritable frustration.
- Changes in tail position for mating.
Taking Care of a Dog During Heat
Extra care and protection are important not only for the comfort of the dog in heat but also in order to avoid any possible causes of unwanted mating:
- Practice Cleanliness: It’s also wise to keep the dog’s place dry and clean, and use dog diapers for discharge.
- Limit Outdoor Contact: When exposing the dog outside, do not let it out of sight for too long to avoid interaction with male dogs.
- Provide comfort: Give items such as a cushioned bed or stuffed toys that can help to release the stress from the dog and let it rest as well.
- Monitor Health: Check for any abnormal behaviors such as excessive blood loss or loss of appetite and seek the help of a vet when necessary.
Spaying And The Most Common Side Effects
Once the operation is performed, spaying will stop the dog from going into heat and potentially prevent some health problems such as uterine infection and type of cancers. If the pet is not going to be used for breeding purposes, then many veterinarians are in the favor of spaying the dogs.
Conclusion
Now that you how long are dogs in heat and how to prepare for it you can ensure complete safety and comfort for your beloved furry friend. Remember if you are still not sure what to do and have any more questions then its best to to contact your vet and get their help.
