Dogs in heat: Complete Guide 2024

Have you ever wondered what happens when your dog is in heat? Just like us, our furry companions also go through certain hormonal phases, and heat is one of them. If you have a female or male dog, you've probably noticed some changes in their behavior. Did you know that heat in males also affects their attitude? And what happens if I bathe a female dog in heat? On Waggy's blog, we'll explain everything you need to know about heat in dogs, how to tell if your female dog has finished heat, and how to manage the stress or anxiety it can cause. Keep reading to learn more and help your furry friend go through this phase more calmly!

What is heat in dogs?

Heat in dogs is the period when female dogs become receptive to reproduction, meaning they are in their fertile phase. This cycle is similar to menstruation in women, but with some key differences. During heat, female dogs experience hormonal and physical changes that allow them to become pregnant if they mate with a male.

What are the stages of a female dog's heat?

A female dog's heat cycle is divided into four main stages, each with specific characteristics and hormonal changes. These stages vary in length and can be influenced by factors such as the breed, age and health of the female dog:

Proestrus: This is the first phase of the heat cycle, and it usually lasts between 7 and 10 days on average, but can be extended to 20 days. During proestrus, the female dog experiences a series of hormonal changes that prepare her for the next step in the reproductive cycle. One of the most visible signs is the bloody discharge from her vulva, although it is not as intense as in estrus. Even though males may be attracted to her, the female is not yet ready to copulate. At this stage, her behavior may become more anxious or even aggressive, as she is in the process of preparing for the next phase.

Estrus: Estrus is the most important stage of heat, as it is when the female dog is fertile and receptive to the male. This phase generally lasts between 3 and 20 days, and is when the female dog can become pregnant if she has contact with a male. During estrus, the bloody discharge decreases and becomes lighter or even colorless. Her vulva enlarges and becomes softer, and her behavior becomes more friendly and receptive towards males. It is at this stage that the female dog can be covered by a male and become pregnant if copulation occurs.

Diestrus: Diestrus is the phase after estrus, which lasts approximately 60-90 days, depending on whether or not the dog has become pregnant. If she has not become pregnant, the dog will go through a resting period where her hormone levels will normalize. During diestrus, the dog's body prepares for the next resting phase. If the dog has become pregnant, this stage becomes the gestation period.

Anestrus: Anestrus is the resting period between heat cycles, where there is no reproductive activity. This phase can last between 2 and 4 months, and is the time the dog's body needs to recover before starting another heat cycle. During anestrus, there is no vaginal discharge or obvious changes in the dog's behavior, and her reproductive system is at "rest."

How long does a female dog's heat last?

A female dog's heat period usually lasts between 2 and 4 weeks, although it can vary depending on the female dog and her breed.

How many times a year does a female dog go into heat?

Each heat cycle can vary in length and frequency, but generally female dogs experience one to two heat cycles per year. If you do not want your female dog to become pregnant, it is important to take precautions during estrus or consider spaying.

What care does a female dog in heat need?

During heat, a female dog needs special care to ensure her physical and emotional well-being:

• Hygiene control: During heat, female dogs often have vaginal discharge, which can cause stains on furniture or their bed. It is important to keep her area clean and, if necessary, use diapers for dogs in heat to avoid stains and maintain her hygiene. Bathing her regularly can also help, but make sure not to use irritating products.
• Avoid contact with unwanted males: Heat is the period when female dogs can become pregnant. If you do not plan for your female dog to breed, it is important to keep her away from unspayed males. Males may be very interested in her, and she may become more aggressive or anxious due to hormonal stimuli.
• Offer her a quiet place: Heat can cause changes in the dog's behavior, such as nervousness, anxiety or even aggression due to the increase in hormones. Providing her with a quiet and comfortable space, away from annoying noises or stress, will help maintain her emotional well-being.
• Pay attention to her exercise needs: Although she may be more nervous or less active than usual, it is important to maintain her exercise routine to reduce stress and keep her healthy. However, she should be kept away from areas with males or situations that may cause her even more stress.

If your dog is going through her heat cycle and you notice that she feels more nervous or stressed than usual, Waggy's RELAX may be the natural solution to help her stay calm. Formulated with Green Tea, Ashwagandha, Valerian and L-Tryptophan, this supplement works by reducing nervousness and promoting a sense of calm without causing sedation. Stress caused by hormonal changes during heat can be safely and effectively managed with RELAX, which will help her feel more relaxed and comfortable. Its 100% natural formula is suitable for sensitive dogs and comes in delicious, easy-to-administer soft chews. Help your dog stay calm during heat with RELAX, the perfect supplement to calm her anxiety gently and naturally.

• Monitor her health: If you notice excessive changes in her behavior, unusual discharge, or signs of pain, it's important to take her to the vet. In some cases, infections or reproductive problems can arise during heat, so a preventive checkup is recommended.
• Proper nutrition: Keep her diet balanced and make sure she is getting enough water. Some dogs may lose some appetite or show more hunger than usual, so it is important to adjust her diet as needed.

In general, during heat, the bitch should be given plenty of attention, patience and care to keep her calm and comfortable.

What happens if I bathe a female dog in heat?

Bathing a female dog in heat is not harmful to her health, as long as you use the right products and do it gently. However, it is important to keep in mind that during heat, her vulva may be more sensitive due to hormonal changes, so you should avoid using products that may irritate her skin or mucous membranes. Also, if your dog has vaginal discharge, you may need to take extra precautions to keep her clean and comfortable. A gentle bath with lukewarm water can help keep her fresh and free of dirt, but always be careful.

What to give my dog ​​when she is in heat?

• If your dog is in heat and feeling more anxious or over-energized, Waggy's CRAZY BALL is the perfect toy to keep her entertained and distracted. This automatic, bouncing ball is ideal for those times when your pet needs to release her energy and calm down in a fun way. With its guaranteed cognitive stimulation, the CRAZY BALL challenges your dog to think and move constantly, helping to avoid boredom and anxiety. Made from super-resistant materials, it's perfect to withstand the most energetic play, even if your dog tends to destroy her toys. Plus, its rechargeable feature and LED lights make play continuous and exciting, even in the dark. The CRAZY BALL is the most fun and safe way to keep your dog entertained during heat and make sure she feels happy and active!

• Diapers or pads: During heat, your dog may have vaginal discharge. You can use diapers for dogs in heat to prevent stains on furniture and keep her clean. These will also help reduce the discomfort she may feel due to the discharge.
• Attention and company: Increase your attention and affection towards her. During heat, female dogs can become more sensitive or anxious, so your presence and reassurance can be comforting for her.

It is important to remember that heat is a natural and temporary phase, but if you notice signs of excessive discomfort, extreme behavioral changes or health problems, it is best to consult a veterinarian.

How do you know if a female dog has finished heat?

A female dog has finished her heat when she no longer shows obvious behavioral signs associated with this stage, such as vaginal bleeding and attraction to males. The bleeding decreases and eventually stops, and her vulva returns to its normal size. In addition, her behavior becomes calmer, since the hormonal changes that occur during heat are no longer as present. However, the entire cycle can last between 2 and 4 weeks, and after this period, the female dog enters the resting phase or anestrus, where she does not show signs of heat.

What is heat like in male dogs?

Heat in male dogs is not as obvious as in female dogs, as males do not bleed or have noticeable physical changes, but they do exhibit certain behaviors associated with their attraction to female dogs in heat. Male dogs may experience an increase in their interest in females who are in their heat cycle, showing signs such as:

• Frequent marking: The male may urinate more than usual to mark his territory, especially near females in heat.
• More agitated or nervous behavior: The male may become more restless, anxious or even more vocal, trying to attract the attention of females.
• Barking and Howling: Male dogs often increase their barking or howling, especially if they smell a female dog in heat nearby.
• Disinterest in food: Some male dogs lose interest in food and become more focused on tracking a female in heat.
• Mounting attempts: Mounting behavior is common in males during this period, although it is not always successful.

Heat in males can last from a few weeks to several months, depending on their environment and the presence of female dogs in heat. Unlike females, males can show interest in female dogs in heat throughout the year, as long as there are available signs.

How to calm a male dog in heat?

Calming down a male dog during his heat can be a challenge, as his natural instinct is to seek attention from females. However, there are several strategies you can implement to help him stay calmer and more balanced:

• Make sure your dog gets plenty of daily exercise to release energy and reduce anxiety. Long walks or active play sessions can help him feel more relaxed.
• Interactive toys or games that challenge his mind, such as puzzles or Waggy's CRAZY BALL, can keep him busy and distracted, reducing his drive to seek out females.
• If your dog is showing signs of anxiety or excessive nervousness, a supplement like Waggy's Calming with HEMP can be very helpful. This product is formulated with 100% natural ingredients, such as hemp oils, which help reduce stress and anxiety without sedating your dog. It is ideal for keeping your dog calm and relaxed during this phase, without affecting their personality or causing addiction.

• Limit your dog's exposure to female dogs in heat to prevent his behavior from escalating. If you have a female dog in the home, consider separating them to reduce stress on both of them.
• Provide a quiet and comfortable space for your dog where he can rest without interruptions. You can use a comfortable bed or an area where he feels safe and relaxed.

By implementing these strategies, you can help your male dog stay more balanced during his heat, reducing his anxiety and improving his overall well-being.

Conclusion

Heat in dogs is a natural phase where both males and females experience hormonal and behavioral changes. While it can be challenging, with proper care and a little patience, you can help your dog stay calm and comfortable during this period. Whether it's providing exercise, distractions, or even natural supplements like Waggy's Calming with HEMP, the important thing is to maintain their physical and emotional well-being. If you have any concerns or notice excessive behaviors, don't hesitate to consult your veterinarian for additional guidance.