If your dog is not spayed, she may go into heat soon. Understanding the signs and how to manage this phase is essential. So, sit back and read on to learn all about heat cycles in dogs and the physical and behavioral changes that appear with them.
What Is the Heat Cycle in Dogs?
The heat cycle in female dogs, or the estrous cycle, is a series of physical, hormonal, and behavioral changes when they are fertile and ready to mate. The cycle comprises four stages: proestrus, estrus, diestrus, and anestrus. Now, if you are wondering, ‘How long are dogs in heat?’ this article has the answers. A female dog usually stays in heat for about 2-4 weeks.
How Long Does Each Stage of the Heat Cycle Last?
Each stage of the heat cycle has different durations and signs.
Proestrus Stage: Duration and Signs
The proestrus stage is the beginning period of the dog estrus cycle. It lasts between 7 to 10 days. During this stage, the dog's vulva swells, and you may notice a bloody discharge, which some dogs clean before you know it. This is a sign that your dog has started attracting male attention but is not ready to mate yet and may get anxious if they try to hump or mount.
Estrus Stage: Duration and Signs
Mating typically occurs during this phase. The estrus stage lasts around 5 to 10 days. During this phase, bleeding may reduce or completely stop. At this point, the female dog is ready to mate and may be attracting and accepting males. Ovulation usually occurs during this stage, increasing the likelihood of successful mating.
Diestrus Stage: Duration and Signs
The diestrus stage lasts between 10-140 days. During this stage, the dog either proceeds with pregnancy or returns to rest as her vulva goes back to normal size and the bloody discharge stops.
Anestrus Stage: Duration and Signs
The anestrus stage is also known as the period of downtime before the next cycle. It lasts around 6 months. However, during this phase, you will not observe any sexual or hormonal behaviors in your dog.
Signs That a Dog Is in Heat
Physical Signs
The physical signs showing the dog is in heat are a large, swollen, and red vulva and a bloody discharge.
Behavioral Changes
Common behaviors of a female dog in heat include:
Seeking male dogs
Being over-friendly with other dogs
Turning her tail to the side
Mounting or humping
Becoming nervous or fidgety
Urinating more often to attract male attention. According to an article by PetMD, the dog’s vaginal and urinary secretions contain pheromones (chemicals that the body releases) that let male dogs know she is in heat.
Indicators of the Fertile Window
As the dog heat cycle begins, the dog bleeds or has blood-tinged discharge, which indicates the fertile window. She will bleed only for 7 to 10 days; however, larger dogs may bleed more than smaller ones.
How Often Do Dogs Go Into Heat?
Heat Cycle Frequency by Breed and Size
Dogs typically go into heat twice a year, around every 6 months. However, the frequency of the estrus cycle depends on the dog’s size, breed, and age. Some dogs may have irregular seasons or heat cycles. As the dog gets older, the frequency may slow down. Also, note that the dog will be going into heat for her whole life, and even if the cycle's frequency slows down, she can still get pregnant.
Variations Between Small, Medium, and Large Breeds
According to an article by the VCA Animal Hospitals, smaller breeds may cycle three times a year, whereas medium-sized dog breeds usually go into heat twice a year or every 6-7 months. However, large dogs typically go into heat once a year.
Caring for a Dog in Heat
When your dog goes into heat, she needs extra care and supervision because she feels hormonal. Providing them with playtime and exercise may help with anxiety and discomfort. Dogs in heat attract a lot of male dogs’ attention, so to prevent pregnancy, you can use dog diapers female dogs feel comfortable in and keep them away from non-neutered dogs. Ensure the diapers are leakproof, absorbent, and secure. Also, limiting their trips to dog parks and walks to a minimum may help avoid attraction from male dogs.
Common Myths and Misconceptions About Dogs in Heat
Let's uncover some common myths and misconceptions about dogs in heat and the truth.
Dog gain weight after being spayed
Truth: Dog’s metabolism may decrease after spaying, but it does not lead to weight gain. The weight gain after spaying is probably because of overfeeding or no exercise.
Spaying is not possible when the dog is in heat
Truth: While spaying is possible when she is in heat, it is advised to wait until the season ends due to potential risks related to the procedure during this period. Talking to your veterinarian about the appropriate timing is a good idea.
All dogs have the same heat cycle
Truth: The heat cycle can differ between dogs because it depends on breed, age, and health. Some may have shorter or longer cycles. Also, the signs and symptoms of the heat cycle may vary between different dogs.
Dogs’ heat cycle is filthy and tricky to handle
Truth: A dog’s flow is not as heavy as a human’s, which makes it manageable. Also, dogs take care of their cleanliness, even during the cycle.
Conclusion
Learning about a dog's heat cycle is essential for her overall health and your peace of mind as a pet parent. The dog in heat requires your undivided attention, so providing proper care during this period will ensure she stays healthy and comfortable. Spaying eliminates the challenges of managing heat cycles entirely, making it easier to care for your dog while also preventing accidental pregnancies. It also reduces the risk of serious health issues like uterine infections and certain cancers, promoting a longer and healthier life.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long are dogs in heat?
Dogs stay in heat for 2-4 weeks, showing different signs during the season, indicating the four stages of the estrus cycle.
Do dogs have periods?
No, female dogs do not have periods. However, they go into heat once or twice a year, generally every 6-7 months.
How long do Shih Tzus stay in heat?
Shih Tzus stay in heat for about 2-4 weeks. They usually go into heat every 6 to 8 months.
Is 7 weeks too long for a female dog to be in heat?
A female dog's period to be in heat is 2-4 weeks. Hence, 7 weeks may be too long. However, it is best to consult your veterinarian for any complications.
Do female dogs have a specific time of year when they go into heat?
No, female dogs do not have a specific time when they go into heat. Most dogs go into heat twice a year, generally every 6-7 months.
