Female Dog Heat Cycle

Every female animal goes through a period of sexual receptivity which is part of its reproductive cycle. It is extremely important for pet owners to understand the signs of heat in female dog. The onset, also known as estrus, may begin as soon as the dog steps into adolescence. This period varies for different dog breeds since puberty for each breed is not the same.

Smaller breeds may start experiencing heat when they are only six months old. However, large dog breeds take as long as 2 years to begin their heat period. The frequency of heat also depends largely on the type of breed. There are some breeds that typically mate only once a year. However, the frequency of the estrus decreases as the female dog gets older. If you have a female dog at home, chances are you will become familiar with the heat cycle as time progresses.

There are four stages in the heat cycle of female dog. The first one is known as proestrus, and it lasts for about 9-10 days. This is a stage where the body begins to release large amounts of estrogen. Male dogs begin to get attracted to the female dog during this stage. However, this is the stage when the female dog is largely inattentive to male dogs.

The next stage is known as oestrus which lasts for 5-9 days, and occurs when the female dog begins to ovulate. This is also the time it will begin to accept male dogs. The behavior of the dog is very typical. The female dog begins to crouch while elevating its hind quarters. She points her backside towards the male and may move her tail to one side. There is a clear discharge from her vulva. This is also the time when the female dog may begin to roam around in search of a potential mate and therefore, the dog should be restrained and if necessary, locked up to prevent unwanted litters.

The third stage is the diestrus which is the longest stage and may last for about 9 weeks. During this stage, male dogs are not as attentive to the female dog as before. If the dog is not yet impregnated, the progesterone levels will keep circulating in the blood for about 2-3 months. Such dogs can develop infections in the womb, and should therefore be given special care.

Anestrus is the last stage; during this stage, the hormones in the blood stream begin receding. This is a period of sexual inactivity and may last for 3-4 months.

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