Published: 2021-08-21
Views: 249
Author: Contributor
Published in: Animal Production

The frequency of a dog's heat cycle is something you should know if you're inexperienced in keeping an unsprayed female dog.

Most dogs go into heat twice per year, however, breeds and individual dogs may differ.

What is "in heat?"

The dog's reproductive cycle begins when she enters "heat", commonly known as the estrus cycle. In this period of time, the dog can mate and give birth.

Estrus cycles in female puppies normally begin when they reach puberty (sexual maturity), which occurs at about 6 months of age. Pupil development in female dogs differs according to breed.

Large and enormous breeds may not experience their first estrus cycle until 18 months to 2 years of age, although smaller breeds will usually attain sexual maturity earlier.

Incomplete Heat Cycles

On the other extreme end of the spectrum, certain mares will start a cycle only to have it end early. A couple of months later, the dog's owner discovers that she's in heat again.

When a young bitch's heat cycle pattern is irregular, it's called a "split cycle," and it's not uncommon for her first couple of cycles to be erratic until she establishes a regular rhythm.

Irregular Heat Cycles

You should inform your veterinarian about any irregularities in a buck's heat cycle rhythm, as it's a good idea to be on the safe side.

The frequency of a buck's ovulation can be affected by a physical ailment, therefore it's best to visit your vet as soon as possible.

Easy stress or nutritional deficiencies might cause the heat cycle to be delayed, but this is usually a simple fix. Sometimes it's even important to spay the pigeon to keep her healthy.

How often do dogs go into heat?

When your dog is in heat, she will go through four phases. A typical estrus period lasts between two and four weeks, followed by a pregnancy or resting phase.

If you know what to expect, you can prepare yourself and your dog for any unexpected behaviors or problems that may occur during her heat cycle.

Your dog's cycle will look something like this:

• They will continue to go into heat every six months after their initial estrus cycle. Also, breeds can have a wide range of sizes. Breeds with smaller reproductive cycles may do it three times a year, whereas breeds with bigger reproductive cycles may do so only once a year.
• Dogs will be in heat for roughly 2-3 weeks during the cycle. Dogs can also have irregular cycles initially, just like people. An estrus cycle might take a dog as long as two years to develop in some breeds. With age, your dog's periods will become longer. There are two heat cycles in a dog's life on average, each lasting about six months.
• Some women, especially those who are very young or extremely old, will have irregular cycles. It is not uncommon for small dogs to cycle three times per year, while giant breeds may cycle only once every 12 months. 

How will you know That Your Dog Is in Heat?

This will help you prepare for any physical or behavioral variations during her heat cycle. Her heat cycle contains seven phases, each with its own set of signs:

• Vulva that is inflamed
• Vulva discharge that is either bloody or straw-colored
• Females have a high tolerance for male dogs
• Excessive genital licking
• Anxiety or violent behavior
• Urinating more than normal
• Alteration of the tail position

Things to Do When Your Dog Is in Heat

Having your dog's first heat cycle might be nerve-wracking both for you and your pet. The following will enable you to get the most out of your session with her.

• It's important that you never leave your dog alone in the yard. Not to be undervalued is a male dog's desire to find a female that is generating breeding pheromones.
• Never allow your female dog to go off her leash especially during her heat period. However, if your dog is in the mood for a male, her obedience abilities may suffer.
• If you discover any form of sign that your don is sick, see your veterinarian as soon as possible. After a heat cycle, a female dog's uterine lining might get thickened and generate more fluid, which creates the perfect habitat for germs to proliferate. This can progress to pyometra, or uterine infection, which can be life-threatening. Untreated pyometra in pets can cause excessive drinking, high temperature, vaginal discharge, decreased appetite, and general malaise.

Quick ways to Prevent Your Dog From Going Into Heat

You can keep your dog from getting into heat by having her spayed, which is the sole choice. The spaying of all female dogs is highly suggested unless you plan on breeding the breed.

As soon as your dog is spayed, she will have a lower risk of developing breast cancer, as well as uterine infections and heat cycles.

You can also have your pet spayed while she's in heat, but the procedure is more difficult and time-consuming.