Do dogs have periods ? No—at least, not like humans do. Pooches do not have month to month periods but do go through an estrus or warm cycle a few . Are you just starting to raise a female dog ? Do you know about the reproductive cycle of dogs ?
- Not all dog owners know the meaning of this phrase (the pet’s heat cycle), and this is completely understandable because this topic can be confusing for readers. Here, the pet shop will explain it clearly for you.
- The heat cycle of a dog can cause stress for both you and your pet. This is when your female dog undergoes physical and emotional changes.
Therefore, it is important that you know about your female dog’s estrus cycle and be aware of its estrus symptoms. Only then can you take proper dog care measures and help your dog feel more comfortable.
In addition, if you are thinking of breeding your pet, this article will also help you make an informed decision to do this responsibly.
We’re here to help you identify and understand the behavioral signs of a dog in heat. Also, read on for simple tips to take care of your pet dog during this time.
When does a dog’s estrus cycle start?
- Dogs mature when they are 6 months old. For female dogs, puberty occurs when they are between 6 and 24 months old – that’s when their estrus cycle begins.
- Most dogs start estrus as early as 6 months of age. However, the exact start time varies depending on the breed of dog, depending on their size.
- While small breeds usually start their estrus cycle earlier, some large or giant breeds don’t go into estrus until they are about 2 years old.
- First, they go into estrus every 6 months (i.e. 2 times a year) and each cycle lasts from 2-4 weeks.
- Please note: As your dog ages, the interval between his estrus cycles will also increase.
Dogs in heat: Telltale signs
Bitches go through estrus cycles throughout their lives without going through menopause. Therefore, it is even more important to pay attention to common behaviors of female dogs during estrus to help them calm down.
- Bleeding: Brownish or reddish in color.
- Keep the tail close to the body: This action and the lifting of the back of the body are inviting gestures to attract the attention of male dogs to mate.
- Loss of appetite: Dogs in heat may refuse to eat or their usual eating behavior may change. Their appetite decreases because their minds focus on more important things like mating.
But you need to make sure that your dog doesn’t go hungry for long periods of time. Try feeding it healthy Dogs Chew Treats snacks from time to time.
4. Excessive grooming of the genitals: It is because their vulva is swollen (after the estrus cycle ends, it returns to its normal size). So, in order to alleviate
The discomfort and cleanse the bloody secretions, they lick themselves excessively.
5. Restlessness and distraction while indoors: Your dog will look out the window, lie next to the door for hours, or walk around the house during this time. Since it is mating season, she will focus on running out the door whenever she has the opportunity to meet the male birds.
6. Mood swings: Even the calmest and cutest dogs can become aggressive or exhibit agitated behavior when they go into heat.
Not you – hormonal imbalances are the culprit here. When you express a desire to find a mate to mate with, you may also hear a lot of moans from your dog.
7. Frequent urination: During estrus season, dog urine has high levels of canine pheromones. Therefore, frequent urination in many different locations
How to comfort a dog during estrus?
The estrus cycle in dogs can be a confusing experience for both you and your dog, especially if it’s your first time. So, the best thing you can do is pay attention to the above signs and loving, take care of your dog so that he feels safe and comfortable.
Scolding is taboo at this time.
Here are 5 simple tips to help your dog during the estrus cycle:
1. Your pet is tired.
Consider ways to tire your dog as a form of distraction from any mental and physical changes he is experiencing. You can use the Dogs Chew Hard Bar to increase the chewing time, which can also make it tired.
In addition, let the child play many games during the day and encourage them to exercise more. These games can help the child release some pent-up energy and keep them calm.
2. Show your love and support
The exercise cycle is the time when your dog friend will require more attention from its owner. Spend more time with your dog – pamper and pet it more. If you see it dozing off, don’t disturb it; let it sleep.
- Regular brushing can also help your dog feel calmer.
3. Stay calm
To calm her down, you can try creating a quiet environment indoors, such as reducing the volume of the TV. There are also special foods for anxious dogs and dogs that bark a lot, which can help reduce stress in dogs.
4. Keep your busy dog entertained
Food toys that encourage your dog’s natural chewing instincts can also be beneficial for them when they are active. Toys for dogs that you can buy at the pet store can be a great option in this case – a food item can be placed inside the toy, which will keep the dog occupied for hours.
5. If you do not want your pet dog to reproduce, you can have it neutered.
Neutering dogs has other health benefits besides preventing unintended pregnancies and ending their reproductive cycles. This surgical procedure prevents certain serious diseases that dogs tend to develop in the future, thus prolonging their lifespan.
It also reduces stages of anxious behavior.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
1. Why is my dog not eating normally during exercise?
Answer: Your dog will naturally lose its appetite as it focuses on the desire to mate. However, no matter how normal it may seem, as the parent of the dog, you are responsible for ensuring that it eats enough to stay healthy.
2. How long does a dog’s first heat cycle last?
Answer: Typically, a dog’s first heat cycle lasts about 2-4 weeks.
Answer: Male dogs do not have heat cycles. The term “heat cycle” refers to the period when a female dog is attempting to mate with a male dog.
Conclusion
Always pay attention to what your dog is doing and with all the cleaning that dog owners need to do during this time, it can be quite stressful. But dogs dedicate their entire lives to loving us, so they deserve that and even more.