Heat Cycle in Female Dogs: Causes, Symptoms, and Duration

When a bitch reaches sexual maturity, it is time to heat up. We explain what this means, the signs that are associated with heat, and how long it lasts.

It is a normal phenomenon for a bitch to be hot. The heat is a natural phenomenon in a bitch.

First heat of your bitch

First heats usually occur between 6-12 months after birth, although they can be earlier or later depending on the breed. In giant dog breeds, the first cycle of a bitch may not begin until she is two years old.

Attention! It is possible that the external signs are not visible during the first heat. It is possible that your bitch will become sexually mature before you notice! It is best to consult a veterinarian early to discuss the possibility of spaying your bitch to avoid a nasty surprise.

The duration and frequency of bitching

In most cases, the intervals between heatings range between seven to nine months. However, in certain circumstances they can be as long as twelve months. The intervals between heatings increase with age and symptoms become less severe. However, dogs don’t go through menopause like humans.

The most interesting question that dog owners have in this context is: how long does a bitch stay in heat? Answer: About 21 days. The estrous phase lasts about five to six days. During this time, the bitch is ready to mate with a male and have a child. The bitch goes through four stages when she is in heat:

1. proestrus

2. estrus

3. metoestrus

Anoestrus

Phase 1: the proestrus (or “pre-estrus”).

The dog owner can easily recognize this phase of heat because the bitch secretes bloody vaginal discharge. She is beautiful and attractive to un-neutered men, who are unable to leave her.

This bitch, who is not fertile, will react snobbishly towards her admirers. She may bark, avoid them or even snap at them to get rid them. This phase can last anywhere from three to 17 days.

Phase 2: Oestrus (or “heat”)

When the female bitch is ready to mate, she enters the second heat phase. The bitch will ovulate several times, causing her vaginal discharge to become watery.

She now shows interest to her admirers for an average of nine consecutive days. When a man approaches, she will stop and turn her tail to one side. This phase is called “standing heat.”

Phase 3: the metoestrus (or “after heat”)

As the heat progresses, the symptoms will become less pronounced. However, a hormonal shift in your bitch’s behavior is still noticeable over the next couple of weeks.

When the bitch is mated, the production of progesterone creates the ideal conditions for embryo implantation. It is also produced in bitches who have never been bred and can sometimes result in pregnancy or milk production.

Phase 4: the anoestrus

This “resting phase” in the heat cycle occurs in a bitch and can last from several weeks to many months. This phase ends when the next heat begins, which is the proestrus. During this phase, the bitch will not be fertile.

Does your bitch have a heat problem? Signs to look out for

If a bitch is in heat, dog owners who are paying attention can recognize the symptoms. The bitch’s heat can be observed by her behavior, as well as the vaginal blood discharge. These include:

Frequent urination

To mark, raise your leg when you urinate, just like men.

Frequent licking the genital area

Lack of drive or restlessness, as well as restlessness.

The bitch and the places she has marked are increasingly being smelt by male dogs.

Owners who are not obeyed or show a conspicuous attachment

Dogs that are aggressive towards each other

Dogs are also individuals. The behavior of a bitch in heat will vary depending on her. Therefore, pay attention to any changes that you notice.

Bitch in the heat: what to do?

You should always keep an eye out for your bitch if she is in heat. What should you do if you meet a male dog that is not neutered while on a walk with your female dog?

Keep your pelt-nosed dog away from males, especially when she is in the fertile phase. Always keep her on leash. She may go on her own and look for potential mates.

Bitch in the heat?

You should always keep an eye out for your bitch if she is in heat. What should you do if you meet a male dog that is not neutered while on a walk with your female dog?

Keep your pelt-nosed dog away from males, especially when she is in the fertile phase. Always keep her on leash. She may go on her own and look for potential mates.

Choose quiet areas to walk in.

Avoid areas where there are many dogs as much as you can with a bitch that is in heat. If you encounter a male dog that is particularly aggressive and on the road, without a leash, then unnecessary stress will be created.

Your dog may behave differently at these times. Some dogs snap at the intruders, while others hide or flee.

If you see a dog that is running around unattended, ask the owner to secure it with a leash.

How to take care of a bitch that is in heat

The bitch will usually clean herself frequently and with care during her period. It is possible that a few blood drops can get into the wrong hands in dogs who are not as clean or have a heavier bleeding.

Some dog owners use protective panties to protect their bitch when she is in heat. Even light carpets or upholstered furniture will be protected from blood stains. You should gradually and gently introduce this “garment” to your bitch. Otherwise, it will cause her unnecessary stress during an exciting time.

Can I prevent the buck from going into heat?

Only by sterilizing her can you prevent a bitch being in heat. Sterilization prevents her from having puppies, but she still experiences the same hormonal cycle and all of the symptoms.

If you don’t want any animals to be born in your home, then spaying would be the best option. After the procedure, your bitch will become calmer and more balanced. She will also get along with male dogs better and will not get pregnant. Early spaying reduces the risk of certain types of cancers and uterine tumors.

Spayed bitches tend to be heavier and more prone to incontinence than non-spayed ones. Get detailed advice on this topic from your veterinarian.