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Canine estrus, commonly known as dog heat, is a natural physiological process that un-neutered female dogs go through when they are ready to mate with a male. A pet’s first estrus can take place at any age between six months to two years and, even though it is completely normal, it can still be a bit stressful for the owner. In order to help your canine companion during the heat cycle, it is essential to understand its particularities, as well as its signs and symptoms. Moreover, you should know about the health risks associated with heat cycles and the necessity for neutering. How long do dogs stay in heat? Normally, the cycle occurs twice a year for females, once between January and March and then six months later, between August and October. Depending on the age and breed, the length of the cycle varies from two to three weeks, but the female will want to mate during half this time. Even without knowing about the biological changes that an animal’s body goes through during estrus, most owners can tell that the process has started because dogs show a sudden change in behavior that is not linked to a health condition. More specifically, your pet will be more agitated than usual. Frequent urination is also common and you will also notice that she is willing to interact with males and initiate intercourse. This behavior is caused by a rise in hormone levels and can be partially associated that a woman goes through before menstruation. Apart from behavioral changes, you will also see some physical ones: the female licks her vulva, which is swollen and bleeds. If you have an un-neutered dog, you should know that this process is inevitable and will start at one point or another. Unlike women, female canines do not go through menopause, so it will not stop as she gets older. Therefore, any responsible pet owner has to be aware of estrus symptoms and make them easier. For example, you can help her during the bleeding stage by preparing towels or special diapers. It’s not only a way of avoiding furniture stains, but also a way to provide comfort. Canine estrus raises many questions apart from “How long does a dog stay in heat?” In fact, it is even more important to wonder if being in heat has a negative effect on your pet’s health. If you do not plan on breeding animals, then neutering them is a highly recommended. Not only will you avoid stress and frustration, but you can avoid complications like urinary infections, tumors or breast cancer. Various organizations recommend owners to do so, because there is an alarming number of stray animals and letting them mate is sometimes unnecessary, risky or irresponsible. If you are interested in spaying your pet, then talk to a vet about what the surgery involves. It’s not a complicated procedure, but you have to choose the right time for it and provide post-operatory care. How long does a dog stay in heat? Find out how long do dogs stay in heat and many other interesting facts by clicking here!
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