Before getting a dog, make sure you’re ready to be a responsible owner. There’s a lot to prepare for, like getting the right-sized crate and scheduling vet visits for your puppy. If you have a female dog, you also need to get ready for her “periods,” which are actually called estrus cycles. Dogs don’t have periods like humans, so here’s what you need to know about taking care of your dog during her estrus cycle, including when it happens, how often, and the products you’ll need to manage the physical signs.
When Do Dogs Get Their ‘Period’ and How Often?
Female dogs usually become able to have babies at about six months old, which is when they experience their first “heat” or estrus cycle. During this time, there’s a rise and then a sharp drop in estrogen levels, leading to the release of eggs from their ovaries. The estrus cycle typically lasts for three weeks, but it can vary between two and four weeks.
Although six months is the average age for a dog’s first heat, it can differ among dogs. Some may go into heat at four months, while larger dogs might not experience it until they are two years old. It’s generally recommended to wait until a dog’s third heat before breeding, but your vet can do genetic testing to determine when your dog is ready.
On average, dogs go into heat about every six months, but this can vary, especially initially. It may take some dogs 18 to 24 months to establish a regular cycle. Smaller dogs tend to go into heat more frequently, around three to four times a year, whereas larger breeds like Great Danes and St. Bernard’s may only go into heat once a year.
As dogs age, they will continue to have cycles, but the time between estrus periods will increase.
You may like to read: How old do dogs have to be to get pregnant?[ Expert Guide 2024 ]
How to Tell if Your Dog is in Heat?
When your female dog is in heat, you’ll notice some changes in her body and behavior. She may pee more often, and there might be a pinkish discharge and a swollen area around her back. Your dog might act a bit nervous, easily distracted, and show interest in male dogs. She might even try to attract them by raising her back end and moving her tail to the side, a behavior known as ‘flagging’. During this time, she’ll actively seek attention from male dogs until her heat cycle is over, which usually lasts about three weeks. The discharge starts as bright red blood and gradually lightens to a pinkish color. It’s possible for your dog to become pregnant, particularly towards the end of the first week and throughout the second week, sometimes lasting a bit longer.
How to Manage Your Dog’s ‘Period’?
Now that you’ve learned more about your dog’s heat cycle, here are some items to help you handle it. Whether they’re reusable or disposable, it’s a good idea to have some dog diapers before your dog goes into heat.
Reusable Dog Diapers
Reusable dog diapers are great for dog owners who care about saving money or the environment. They soak up pee well with lots of layers, and you can wash them and use them again. You can get these diapers for small, medium, and big dogs. They come in plain colors or cool patterns. And guess what? You can wash them by hand or in the washing machine, and they come in fun colors too!
You may like to read: How Long Are Dogs Pregnant? [Expert Guide]
Disposable Dog Diapers
If you don’t like washing dog diapers, you can try disposable ones. They come in sizes for small, medium, and large dogs. These diapers are made to stop leaks, soak up wetness, and keep your dog comfy and safe.
Full-Body Dog Diapers
If your dog has trouble keeping regular diapers on, you might want to consider trying full-body dog diapers. These special diapers were created by a vet and are trusted by other vets, trainers, and pet experts. They come in various sizes, from small to extra-large long, ensuring a good fit for your furry friend. The diapers are designed to stay in place securely and are also antimicrobial, which means they help keep your dog protected from germs. Besides being practical, they also come in different colors like pink, blue, red, and purple.
In short, Female dogs have a special time called a heat cycle, which is a bit like having a period. Some owners might not know much about it or how to take care of their dogs during this time. But, by learning about what happens during a heat cycle and doing things like keeping your dog clean and comfy, giving her enough water, providing a soft bed, and talking to the vet about health stuff, you can show your dog lots of love and support when she goes through this every few months!
You may like to read: Can Dogs Get Pregnant When Not In Heat?
FAQs: How many times do dogs get their period?
Still not satisfied? Here are some frequently asked questions:
Do Female Dogs Get Periods?
Yes, dogs don’t have periods like humans, but they do go through heat cycles approximately every 6-12 months. This cycle, lasting 2-4 weeks, indicates fertility and the readiness to reproduce. Signs include increased urination, a swollen vulva, bloody discharge, and mood changes. Female dogs typically reach sexual maturity around 6-12 months, with smaller breeds maturing earlier and larger breeds maturing later.
Do Female Dogs Have Periods Every Month?
Female dogs don’t have monthly periods like humans. They only bleed when they come into season, which happens every six to eight months. Unlike humans, dogs have a thinner uterine lining that doesn’t shed regularly, so they don’t experience a monthly cycle.
Do Female Dogs Have Periods After Being Spayed?
Spaying prevents your dog from going into heat, but after the surgery, she might have a brief period of bleeding. It’s normal and caused by released hormones. The bleeding lasts a few days, and your dog will quickly return to normal.
What Happens During a Female Dog’s Period?
Female dogs have a period called estrus, lasting 3-21 days, with light bleeding. It might stain furniture. They can get more anxious or aggressive due to hormonal changes, causing barking or restlessness.
How Can I Stop a Dog’s Period?
One common method is spaying, where the vet removes your dog’s ovaries to prevent them from going into heat. Another option is using medication, like hormones, to lower your pup’s estrogen levels and stop her from entering the heat cycle.
Can you bathe a dog with menstruation?
Sure, you can wash your puppy even if she’s in heat. Dogs don’t have periods; they go into a phase called estrous or heat.
Is it okay if dogs lick their period blood?
It’s not great if your dog licks her menstrual waste because it could cause bacterial infections. If she’s been in a dirty place, like playing in mud, the risk is higher.
Does a dog’s period smell?
Certainly! When girl dogs haven’t been spayed and are in their heat cycle, they might start to smell. This happens because their bodies release a hormone called estrus during this time, leading to changes in their discharge and causing a strong odor.
What do you do when your dog gets her period?
- Don’t let your dog run around without a leash or go to the dog park when she’s in heat. This can make male dogs fight, even if they’re neutered.
- Use doggie diapers to avoid mess.
- Keep your dog inside.
- Give your dog more love and attention
How long do female dog periods last?
Girl dogs don’t have periods like humans, but they go through something similar called a “heat cycle” or “estrus.” During this time, a girl dog might have some bleeding from her backside, and it can last for about 3 to 12 days.