There are quite a few misconceptions around dogs in heat, but how much do you really know on the subject?
A dog in heat, also known as being in oestrus, is a natural part of a female dog’s reproductive cycle. But if your dog is experiencing her first heat cycle, you may be wondering what to expect and how best to care for her during this time. If so, you’re in luck. In today’s guide, we’ll answer common questions around the dog heat cycle, provide practical tips for managing your dog’s comfort, and suggest different ways you can create a calming environment.
A dog in heat is going through a fertile phase of her reproductive cycle, meaning this is a time when she can become pregnant. Her body will be undergoing hormonal changes, which can potentially lead to physical signs such as:
On top of these physical signs, you may also notice some behavioural changes while your dog is in heat, including:
Some dogs show obvious signs of being in heat, while others may exhibit more subtle changes. Either way, it’s important to remember this behaviour is completely natural and should go when your dog’s heat cycle finishes.
A dog’s first heat cycle typically occurs between six and twelve months of age, but this can vary by size and breed:
Your dog’s first heat cycle marks the beginning of their sexual maturity. After the heat cycle begins, most dogs will go into heat approximately every six months. However, this can be different for each dog, and some dogs may have irregular cycles at first.
A particularly common question is to ask how long does a dog's heat cycle last. A dog heat cycle usually lasts around three weeks, though this can range from between two to four weeks for different dogs.
The dog heat cycle includes several stages:
Interestingly, dogs don’t experience a menopause in the same way as humans. They will continue to experience heat cycles throughout their lives, though the time between cycles may lengthen as they age.
While your dog is in heat, it’s possible she may experience mood swings and physical discomfort, as well as feelings such as anxiety, irritability, or simply being more sensitive than usual. As her care giver, it’s only natural to want to support her during this time. Follow these tips to help her to remain calm and settled:
It’s important to provide a quiet space where your dog can access her own bed, food, water, and toys, retreating there when she needs to feel safe. Plugging in an ADAPTIL Calm diffuser in this area is a great way to provide added comfort.
Dogs pick up on their human’s emotions, so it helps to stay calm during her heat cycle. Similarly, dogs thrive on routine, so keeping to her daily schedule will ensure a sense of stability and security.
Keep your female dog away from male dogs to avoid unwanted attention or stress while she’s in heat. It may be easier to walk her during less busy times and in quieter areas, and it’s recommended to keep her on a lead too.
Likewise, it’s best to avoid leaving her unsupervised in the garden in case any male dogs try to get in. They can detect the pheromones in her urine from a considerable distance and may go to some lengths to reach her! On this note, if you have an uncastrated male dog in your household, you’ll want to keep them separated during this time to avoid accidental mating.
For additional on-the-go support, you could also consider using an ADAPTIL Calm Collar. The synthetic, odourless pheromones emitted from the collar will help your pooch remain calm in a variety of situations.
Since walks may be a little more restricted while your dog is in heat, it can help to provide other forms of mental stimulation, such as:
Dog diapers or period pants can help manage the mess from bleeding and discharge, keeping your home clean and your dog comfortable. Make sure to choose the right size for a snug but comfortable fit.
If you plan to use these, try introducing them before your dog’s heat cycle starts to help her get accustomed to the sensation. However, bear in mind that, while these pants can help with cleanliness, they won’t prevent male dogs from attempting to mate.
Alternatives for keeping your house clean could include putting down extra towels, limiting access to certain areas that are more difficult to protect, or designating specific blankets for her favourite resting spots. Just be sure not to scold or punish your dog for any mess while she’s in heat—this won’t help and could negatively affect your bond together.
If your dog is in heat and you notice excessive bleeding, prolonged symptoms, or unusual behaviour (such as extreme lethargy or aggression), consult your veterinarian. They can also discuss spaying options if you don’t plan on mating your dog.
For extra support, we have a range of options from ADAPTIL that are great for providing added comfort and reassurance. These are all designed to help reduce stress-related behaviours, making it easier for your dog to navigate the hormonal changes of her heat cycle.
For more tips on dog care and behaviour support, explore our further articles online. Or to receive the latest news and guides straight into your inbox, don’t forget you can sign up for our newsletter!