Running time in dogs
A dog's heat is really just another way of saying that a bitch has reached sexual maturity and can get pregnant. When a dog is in heat – she will therefore be able to have puppies of her own! All it takes is an inattentive moment on your part, the right time in her cycle – and of course an unneutered male dog. You will probably notice that your four-legged friend changes in behavior due to the increased amount of sex hormones in her furry body. But there may also be other changes in behavior. When a dog is ovulating and can actually get pregnant – this is also called the dog being in heat. Read more in our veterinary blog about what to expect when a bitch is in heat!
Table of contents
When is the dog's very first heat and what signs should I look for?
A female dog's first heat usually occurs when she is between 6 and 12 months old. However, the age can vary slightly depending on individual differences and the breed of dog. Larger dog breeds tend to come into heat a little later than smaller dogs. It is not always easy to notice your dog's first heat. However, a very clear symptom is blood stains on the floor, in the dog bed or directly from the vulva. To get rid of the blood stains around the house during heat, there are specially adapted dog diapers! Sometimes it can also be difficult to notice the blood as some dogs need to be extra clean during this period. You may also notice that your dog is approaching heat when she starts marking more on walks.
How often do bitches have periods?
The dog does not have a heat period very often – but approximately every 6 to 8 months. This means that you may experience that your bitch has a heat period around 1–3 times a year.
How long does the dog's period last?
Once the dog has come into heat – it lasts for about 3 weeks – but here there are also individual differences. We like to divide the bitch's hormonal cycle into 4 phases where it is only during the heat phase that the dog can become pregnant. It is common for older dogs to continue to have heat as they do not go through a "menopause" like we humans do. However, you may notice that the break between each heat may be longer.
Female hormonal cycle in 4 phases
Pre-estrus (proestrus)
Duration: approx. 9 days
During this period, you may see the external genitalia swell and there may be bloody discharge from the vagina. At first, the blood will be quite light - but this color will become darker throughout the cycle. If you meet other male dogs on a walk - you may notice that they will be extra interested in the bitch without her reciprocating the interest.
Estrus (estrus)
Duration: approx. 9 days
During heat, the bitch ovulates and can be fertilized. The discharge may be more yellowish than red during this period – but there may still be some blood present. The bitch is receptive to mating and will make it easier for male dogs to show interest in her bottom by moving her tail to the side.
Resting phase (metoestrus)
Duration: approx. 70 days
The heat is over! If the bitch has been fertilized – this is the gestation period with birth and lactation.
Without heat (anoestrus)
Duration: approx. 125 days
If the bitch is not expecting puppies – the resting phase transitions to this phase.
Running time and puppies
If you want your bitch to get pregnant - a veterinarian can take a cytology test to determine where in the cycle she is. To determine the time of ovulation, we can also take tests that measure the progesterone content in the blood. If you do not want puppies, there are also contraceptives for dogs in the form of birth control pills and injections. In Norway, it is not allowed to castrate dogs without a medical or special reason. This could, for example, be if the bitch has uterine inflammation or is very bothered by an imaginary pregnancy and mood swings. Some dog owners will attach a yellow ribbon to the dog's leash to signal to other owners that they want to keep a little distance during the heat.
What can happen during the dog's term?
When your dog is in heat – she is affected by hormones that will change her behavior. It is completely normal to feel that your four-legged friend is not quite herself during the heat and this will pass. There may also be changes in appetite, activity level and general condition.
Changes in behavior
Increased interest in other male dogs
If you have a bitch in heat – you may notice that she is more interested in other male dogs. You may also notice that she becomes less obedient even if she always comes when called or does other commands with dedication. It is therefore a good idea to keep your furry friend on a leash during this period. Dogs' instincts are strong – so during heat, other male dogs may find themselves jumping fences to get to the bitch. All it takes is a few seconds of inattentive eye before the deed is done!
Depression
Some dog owners may find that their dog seems more depressed or sleeps a lot – as if they have a minor depression going on. They may also become more clingy or whine and whine during the heat. To support your four-legged friend during this period – extra attention in the form of play and walks will go a long way to keeping their spirits up. If your dog’s activity level is not at its peak during the heat – you should respect this and provide attention in other ways such as grooming and cuddling. Pay attention to what your dog needs and be there for her.
Changes in appetite
It is completely normal for appetite to change during the heat. Some bitches have a reduced appetite – while others eat more. The male dog can also be affected by this if he smells bitches in the vicinity. Take into account the reduced interest in food intake and steer clear of activities that require an extremely high amount of energy – such as dog sledding and hunting.
Pain
During the heat, when the bitch's vulva swells, it may become a little tender. This, along with mild stomach cramps, can cause some discomfort for the dog. If the dog experiences pain during the heat, diarrhea, constipation, vomiting or other discomfort, you can consult a veterinarian. This way, we can rule out that the pain is from inflammation or infection and, if necessary, recommend pain-relieving measures.
Is there something wrong if my dog never has a period?
Do you have a dog that is not in heat? The heat in dogs can vary from dog to dog – and some dogs have a so-called “silent heat” where they have a heat without blood – but can still be fertilized. There may also be a medical reason if the bitch does not have bleeding. This could, for example, be a disorder in ovarian function or other diseases such as low metabolism and hyperfunction of the adrenal glands. The same applies if the bitch has irregularities such as bleeding and discharge outside the cycle or a very long heat. It is always a good idea to contact a veterinarian once too many than once too few to check if everything is in order with your four-legged friend.
Do you have questions about maturity or reproduction of dogs? Contact our A-Vet Veterinary Clinic in Larvik!
