When young dogs first begin to cycle, it is normal for their cycles to be somewhat irregular. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Once your dog is spayed, she will have a reduced risk for mammary cancer and will be unable to contract uterine infections or go through a heat cycle. You can delay this up to 9 months, however, and some people believe it is better to wait. Why Your Dog Doesn’t Want to Go Outside and what to Do About It? It begins with swelling of the vulva and vaginal discharge and ends when all bleeding has stopped. This happens because your dog is driven by nature to deposit urine rich in pheromones near her location. We put sheets on the couch and throw blankets on the bed. When she is in heat, she will actively seek male dogs with whom to mate, and will often wander off from the house or escape a fenced yard, putting her at risk of getting hit by a car, being taken by a stranger or getting into a fight. A dog usually experiences its first heat cycle between the ages of … Fact 5: Do Female Dogs Go Into Menopause? There is no guarantee that a Goldendoodle will inherit the Poodle's coat type in any given breeding. She became very needy and we gave her extra attention and cuddles. There will also be a blood-tinged discharge and swollen vulva. Smaller breeds may go into heat more frequently, as often as 3-4 times a year. 6. She was especially aggressive when protecting her yard so we had to keep a close eye on her. Most female dogs come into heat two times per year , although that can vary depending on the breed and even each dog individually. Dogs have an average of two heat cycles per year, roughly six months apart. How to Prevent Your Dog From Going Into Heat . She is still a puppy at 6 months old and should be able to grow up more before you breed her the first time. Some dogs can go into heat as young as four months, while larger breeds may be as old as two years before their first heat. The only option to prevent your dog from going into heat is to have her spayed. It certainly alleviates some behavioral problems such as frequent urination. This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. The canine estrus cycle (commonly referred to as the dog heat cycle) occurs every 6 to 12 months. It can also occur late; when they are 1 ½ to 2 years old, depending on the size of your dog. Small breeds tend to cycle more regularly than the larger breeds. This is also called their estrus cycle. We groom her often and I can smell the blood a couple of days before. So, that means no doggie menopause for your four legged female friend. I have 7 facts about female dogs in heat so you’ll know the warning signs.​. Depending on how often dogs go into heat in your dog’s breed, you may be putting up with this two to three times a year. But this can vary, especially in the beginning, so it's a good idea to keep track. But, it has been known for smaller breeds to have 3-4 heat cycles per year and larger … However, as with all breeds, genetics come into play. It will appear bloody, much like a woman’s period. Schedule a spay for your dog unless you are a breeder! On average, it will last for three weeks. You must be understanding of her change in behavior because this is what nature intended. 1. DogHubs is a community of Dog Lovers. Most vets and research available recommends you spay your dog around 6 months old. Isolate your dog when she is in heat and care for her during this time. Additionally, it will prevent her humping things and licking herself which can be embarrassing when company is over. when she first goes into heat again, she will not want to mate until the downside of her heat, like the last two days Additionally, Doghubs.com participates in various other affiliate programs, and we sometimes get a commission through purchases made through our links. This is also called their estrus cycle. How long does a dog stay in heat? How often do dogs go into heat? The blood comes off of hard floors with a quick swiffer cleaning. At this duration, you will notice the symptoms in a female German shepherd being in heat. The spay surgery is like a hysterectomy in humans. Without some advice and examination from your vet, it is difficult to pinpoint this exactly. Female dogs go into heat twice a year. This number can vary dog to dog and breed to breed. But this can vary, especially in the beginning, so it’s a good idea to keep track. Because pugs are on the smaller side of the range of dog breeds they do tend to go into heat a little earlier than larger breeds with the average being between the fourth and sixth months. Female dogs cycle into heat on average every six months. Your dog will continue to go into heat throughout her life, although the length of time between estrus will increase as she gets older. Personally, I recommend that you do have your dog fixed. How often do dogs go into heat? Female dogs are ready for breeding two times a year and can safely have a litter each time. The duration of the heat cycle is between 12 and 21 days, although this varies between breeds and individual dogs and can last up to four weeks. Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole. How often do female dogs come into heat? Female dogs go into heat twice a year. Your vet has the best advice about this subject! Most dogs have two cycles per year, and the season is irrelevant. Small dogs will tend to go into heat more frequently, as much as three or four times a year. I couldn’t resist- we need a little humor in this anatomy and biology discussion! Small breed dogs may have a heat cycle 2 to 3 times a year, while large and giant breeds may only have 1 cycle every 12 to 18months. Additionally, large-breed dogs can go as long as 12 to 18 months between heat cycles. Overall not really a big issue. Some female dogs can take 18-24 months to develop regular heat cycles. I want to hear from you about how often dogs go into heat in your house if you live with intact female dogs! How often will she be in heat? When your dog is 6 months old, she is old enough to go into heat. Although the pattern may vary widely from dog to dog. Female dogs cycle into heat on average every six months. Larger dogs, like Irish Wolfhounds, St. Bernards and Great Danes may only go into heat every 12-18 months. 2. Learn how your comment data is processed. Photo by Dmitry Kalinovsky. Sharing Is Caring and Commenting Is Even Better! A female may allow a male to mount her at any time during the cycle, although most not only only accept mounting later in the cycle, but actively seek it.   Some females will have irregular cycles, especially if they are very young or very old. This can also vary from breed to breed. Taking this into account, since a dog will go into heat every 6 months or so and the gestation period lasts 2 months, a dog will take about another 4 months before they can become pregnant again. During this stage, there’s an increase in estrogen levels, then a sharp decrease and then her ovaries release eggs. Try 15 Dogs That Don’t Shed or Can Dogs Get Pink Eye- How To Get The Red Out for more information and even more cute photos of dogs, too. How often do dogs go into heat? Although it varies with different breeds and individual dogs, an unspayed female usually goes into heat twice yearly, about every six months. First, intact female dogs can develop a condition called pyometra. Related Articles. Most dogs go into heat on a biannual basis with heat cycles occurring approximately every six months. Perhaps you have a new puppy who is growing older and you’re wondering when you should have your dog fixed. At what age will my dog have her first heat? Another has only one season per year. In general, dogs experience the heat cycle every six months or twice a year. That is a specialized subject that has its own pros and cons to consider. If your dog hasn't had her first heat yet, you will want to be prepared. 7mn read Dec 3, 2020 Jay. Fact 3: How Long Will My Dog Stay In Heat? Similar to humans, dogs can also have irregular cycles at first. Most dogs come into heat twice per year, or about every six months, although the interval can vary between breeds and from dog to dog. Unspayed female dogs usually go into heat (the time when they can get pregnant) at least once a year and often two to three times a year. With experience, pet owners become more adept at recognizing the onset and taking good care of their dogs during this natural life cycle. The average English Bulldog will go into heat once every six months. Occasionally, your Bulldog may show signs of going into heat between these regular cycles, but she will typically be infertile during these additional seasons. However, it may last between two and four weeks and still be regarded as normal. No Comments. Responsible breeders never breed a dog on her first or even her second heat. How often does a great dane go into heat? There are distinct signs of estrus, both physical and behavioral. As the fertile period continues, the discharge will turn more clear. She may urinate more than usual. If you don’t feel that your vet is knowledgeable about how often dogs go into heat or when to spay dogs, interview other vets and choose a new one right away. Answer a few simple questions and find the right dog for you, Compare up to 5 different breeds side by side, Browse the AKC Marketplace to find the right puppy for you, Browse our extensive library of dog names for inspiration, Find out the best and worst foods for your dog and which to avoid. The small breeds can experience their heat cycle three to four times per year, while large breeds may only cycle once per year. It can take some dogs 18-24 months to develop regular cycles. Female dogs are ready for breeding two times a year and can safely have a litter each time. So, your Great Dane may only have one litter of puppies a year. How Often Do Dogs Go Into Heat- 7 Ways To Tell, Fact 2: Female Dogs Go Into Heat For The First Time At 6 Months Old. Small dogs will tend to go into heat more frequently, as much as three or four times a year. Your dog will show signs of heat that include displaying for male dogs, frequent urination, and bloody discharge. I am How often do dogs go into heat? Pun intended. Course topics include introduction to breeding, genetics, anatomy, whelping and nutrition. This is an infection of the uterus that requires an emergency spay. A female dog reaches sexual maturity at around six months old. Some people believe this surgery prevents cancer. Giant dog breeds such as Great Danes and Irish Wolfhounds may go into heat once a year or less. She will be eight months old then. The urine will draw them to her for breeding. How Often Do Newborn Puppies Poop. Female dogs will go into heat their entire lives. Small breeds may cycle three times per year, while giant breeds may only cycle once every 12 months. Your email address will not be published. Watch for the following signs to identify if your dog is in heat. Let’s review what we’ve learned here, since it was quite a lot! That being said, I want to be very clear that this article is not about breeding your dog. This can be dangerous and requires emergency surgery. Ovulation Timing In Dogs – Duration, Hormones, Calculators, Etc. Consult your vet for the best opinion on this important decision. It is possible to occur only once or as much as thrice a year, depending on individual circumstance. Small dogs will tend to go into heat more frequently, as much as three or four times a year. It is serious and life threatening. They can answer questions with authority and help you breed your dog safely. Often there are some patterns in cycling frequency, but exceptions are not rare. For example, small breed dogs can have three cycles a year. I was just wondering when Jillee may go into her first heat cycle....I am not getting her fixed until Dec.13. At the start of the fertile period, this discharge will be darker red. Understanding Your Ravenous Beast. Most dogs will come into heat twice a year, or every 6 months at any time of the year. 3. Our German Shepherd was born with 2 very serious heart defects. If you are going to breed your dog, please talk with your vet about this and consult an experienced breeder who is willing to help you. All rights reserved. Dogs go into heat around 6 months old. Let me answer the real question first. How Often Do Dogs Go Into Heat? Doghubs.com does not intend to provide veterinary advice. If you choose to keep your dog intact, be sure to keep up on regular vet visits. The interval between heat cycles tends to be 4 to 12 months with an average of 7 months. You won’t have to worry about the mess a dog’s period can create in your house. If you’ve enjoyed this article, check out some of the other recent posts on the website. You can’t say with certainty that dogs go through heat cycles twice annually because the actual Pomeranian breeding cycle length can vary enormously. Secondly, spaying your dog will make life easier for you. Although the time intervals can vary between breeds, most female dogs will go in heat twice per year (usually every 6 months). For more information, please read our privacy policy. It depends on your dog's breed, as it varies with different breeds and individual dogs, an unspayed female usually goes into heat twice yearly, about every six months. This is the only way to identify your dog’s individual cycle. Do you have any tips and tricks of your own to share with our readers? Your dog has come into heat It is most common for the dam to come into heat at six months of age and then every six months thereafter. Go out into the yard with your dog when she’s in heat. Discharge emerges from your dog when she is in heat. Your vet will perform any necessary genetic testing and will also be able to tell you when your dog is ready. That being said, I want to be very clear that this article is not about breeding your dog. Some breeds of dogs go into heat more often than others, but in general, pugs go into heat at an average rate of around every five to eight months. It’s like bedroom eyes but a little less sophisticated. How Often Do German Shepherds Go Into Heat? This, of course, is also known as spaying your dog. The vet removes the dog’s ovaries and uterus to prevent heat and pregnancy. Very large breeds, like Great Danes and St. Bernards among others, may only go into heat every twelve months. Small breeds and toy breed dogs like Chihuahuas may go into heat more frequently. How often dogs go into heat, varies from a Dog to dog. Doghubs.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. A puppy can go into heat sooner than you think. How often will my dog go into heat? Elective surgery is not an option. The average is three weeks or 21-days. Most dogs will come into heat twice a year. Your email address will not be published. Male dogs will know your dog is in heat because there are scent signals called pheromones in her urine. Your dog’s cycles will regulate by the time they are around two years old. If you haven't gotten your female dog spayed, she will go into heat. Large dogs tend to sexually mature and experience estrous cycles later in their life than small or medium-sized dogs. Why Is My Puppy Always Hungry!? The cycle slows down, however. It will also protect your dog from unwanted advances from male dogs in the neighborhood. Can Dogs Get Pink Eye- How To Get The Red Out, How to Stop Dog from Barking at Door in 4 Easy Steps. Required fields are marked *. The time during which male dogs are attracted to a female dog is variable, approximately 18 days. Watch for the signs I explain below to identify when your dog is in heat and when the heat is over. iy_2021; im_01; id_08; ih_15; imh_01; i_epoch:1610146874470, py_2020; pm_12; pd_13; ph_23; pmh_04; p_epoch:1607929499261, link-block-publisher; link-block-publisher_link-block-publisher; bodystr, pn_tstr:Sun Dec 13 23:04:59 PST 2020; pn_epoch:1607929499261. Smaller breeds might cycle three times a year, while larger breeds might only cycle once a year. Leave me a comment about this or anything else related to dogs. Flirting for dogs involves the female dog presenting her rear end to the male. The first time she went into heat was about 7.5 months. 2. On average, this occurs about twice a year or every six months, although it varies from dog to dog. You may or may not be able to see this, however. But usually, once every 6 months is the frequency you can expect when do Golden Retrievers go into heat. How Often Do Dogs Go Into Heat? Visit the AKC Breeder Education Platform designed to support your continuing education needs. 4. It is a little like male dogs marking their territory. https://www.akc.org/subscription/thank-you. You might need to know because this is your first foray into breeding your dog. Female dogs cycle into heat on average every six months. Some dams come in at four months and some at twelve months for their first heat, while some are every six months and some every five to 11 months. After dogs experience their first estrus cycle, they will continue to go into heat approximately every 6 months. By Giggle Pets February 6, 2020 June 12th, 2020 Dogs. Essential info about dog health, training, sports and more. I learned something new about dogs researching this article for you! How Often Will My Dog Go into Heat? As you already know, most dogs owners choose to take their dogs to the vet for a simple surgery that prevents them from getting pregnant. The space in between seasons will usually be somewhere between every six months and annually. Just like human women, female dogs may be fertile through the entire heat or they may only have a 10 day window that they can get pregnant in. 7mn read Nov 18, 2020 Jay. 83 comments on « Signs & Stages Of The Dog Heat Cycle » Melba Dowding says: Apr … 16mn read Nov 12, 2020 Jay. You may be able to see this by examining your dog. How Often Do Dogs Go Into Heat? But this can vary, especially in the beginning, so it’s a good idea to keep track. She may have her first heat anywhere between 6 months and 24 months, so make sure you… On average, a female dog that hasn't been neutered or spayed goes into heat twice a year. In some dogs, it lasts only two weeks while others go four weeks. Although six months old is the average age of a dog’s first heat, this can vary widely. But this can vary, especially in the beginning, so it’s a good idea to keep track. How Often Do Dogs Go Into Heat? On average, small breeds go into heat every four months, medium size breeds every eight months, and large and giant breeds once per year. Founded in 1884, the AKC is the recognized and trusted expert in breed, health, and training information for dogs. This is why she is peeing so much! Therefore, dogs in their later years will have longer periods between their periods. 5. Finally, you may see your dog ‘flirting’ with male dogs. It can take some dogs 18-24 months to develop regular cycles. She’ll be receptive to male dogs and may initiate sexual contact, including raising her rear towards male dogs and deflecting her tail to one side, which is called ‘flagging.’ During the middle stages of the cycle, a female dog will actively court males and this may continue until the cycle is over. © The American Kennel Club, Inc. 2020. Smaller breeds, however, can come into heat every 4 months. Your dog will urinate frequently during walks when she is in heat. Female dogs cycle into heat on average every six months. Lauren is a young woman with a true passion for animals. It is considered best practice to wait until her third heat, at about 18-24 months. Females are receptive to males for only half of this time. How Long is a German Shepherd in Heat? How To Clean A Dog’s Ears In 5 Simple Steps, How to Make a Dog Bandana Without Sewing in 10 Easy Steps, When do German Shepherds Stop Growing – Find Out the Truth Now, 15 Dogs That Don’t Shed: Amazing Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds. You might even consider using a leash. She loves that her dogs keep her so active and satisfy her desire to spend lots of time in nature. It is very important to know when your dog has come into heat. On the upside, if your dog isn’t spayed, your family will have lots of stories to tell after Thanksgiving at your house this year. Conversely, however, some female dogs are receptive to breeding right away as they enter their heat. Training isn't just for pets - here's your chance to learn too. Different Types of German Shepherds. Your female Lab’s season will normally form a fairly regular pattern. AKC actively advocates for responsible dog ownership and is dedicated to advancing dog sports. 11mn read Oct 19, 2020 Leonardo. https://www.akc.org/wp-admin/admin-ajax.php. Because domesticated dogs live in climate controlled situations inside our homes, there is no specific season that triggers your dog’s estrus cycle. It can take a … It can take some dogs 18-24 months to develop regular cycles. She may seem nervous or distracted. The vet said not to bother with the diapers. By Staff Writer Last Updated Apr 5, 2020 10:58:00 PM ET. The estrus cycle usually lasts an average of three weeks, although this can vary from 2-4 weeks. If you’ve waited a bit, you’ll need to know how often do dogs go into heat just so you are sure to handle this necessary task on time. We go to great lengths to help users better understand their dog; however, the content on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. How Often Do Dogs Go Into Heat? Fact 6: Why You Should Have Your Dog Spayed Or Fixed, How Often Do Goes Go Into Heat And What You Should Do. Do Male Dogs Recognize Their Own Puppies? Most sources will tell you that dogs go into heat two times per year, but the truth is that’s not 100% accurate for all dogs. I’m kidding. However, this is not universal. The amount of times a dog goes into heat per year depends on its size. She has kept many pets over the years and has intimate knowledge of their needs both emotionally and physically. Additionally, young dogs may have irregular cycles. Conversely, large breed dogs may only have one cycle every 12 to 18 months. Your dog’s vulva swells during heat. When the heat cycle begins, your dog may not be interested in male dogs. 5. Some of the information I give you here will help you understand how the fundamentals of breeding works, but it is not a comprehensive look at breeding dogs. How to handle a female dog in heat Never let your dog out in the yard alone: Protect your dog from male dogs and unwanted pregnancy. Her vulva may also swell. Just because nature says it is time doesn’t mean you should breed your dog so young. Small breed dogs may cycle three times per year, while giant breed dogs may only cycle once every 12 months. Unlike some other species, canine estrous cycles are not dependent on the seasons, sunlight, or … dogs usually go into heat every six to eight months, it's not a guarantee that they will get PG on the first time when they mate with a dog, it may take a few times. Many dogs go in the heat with a predictable frequency, as if they were on a clock. For example, one of our girls is every six months like clockwork. Spaying is highly recommended for all female dogs unless you plan on strengthening the breed. The overall German shepherd heat cycle can last for up to 4 weeks. The stage of the cycle when she’s receptive to mating is called estrus, or heat. During the cycle, dogs will be in heat for about 2-3 weeks. Most dogs will go through two heat cycles each year, but smaller dogs may go into heat more often. On the other hand, some dogs don’t show visible signs that are easy to notice. Your dog will be in heat for 2-4 weeks. What I want you to understand is that your dog will cycle two times every year until or unless you have her fixed. Some of these descriptions are a bit graphic, but it is important to discuss this with maturity so you understand what to look for to tell how often dogs go into heat. She’s not near Male dogs and the extra clean up is minimal. Male dogs are very sensitive to the smell of a female dog who is fertile. Some dogs who remain intact contract infections and diseases such as uterine infections. My dogs are little Chihuahua mixes and they seemed to be in heat all the time lol! It is not ok to become frustrated with your dog for being a dog. Some breeds go into heat more often. Join us to experience…. Others, may only go into heat per year, but smaller dogs may have... In between seasons will usually be somewhere between every six months in any breeding... Conversely, large breed dogs may cycle three times per year depends its. As Great Danes and St. Bernards and Great Danes may only go into in! Every year until or unless you are a Breeder their first estrus cycle lasts! And satisfy her desire to spend lots of time in nature very clear this... To have her spayed 9 months, however, and some people believe it is difficult pinpoint! 3-4 times a year heat, at about 18-24 months to develop regular cycles! She became very needy and we sometimes Get a commission through purchases made through our.... Heat their entire lives is driven by nature to deposit urine rich in pheromones near her location and estrous! To keep track the spay surgery is like a woman ’ s individual cycle long 12... About dogs researching this article, check out some of the vulva vaginal! Menopause for your four legged female friend pet owners become more adept recognizing. Course topics include introduction to breeding right away as they enter their heat heat is over later years have! How long will my dog Stay in heat and pregnancy just because says. Humping things and licking herself which can be embarrassing when company is over usually be somewhere every! Be 4 to 12 months is no guarantee that a Goldendoodle will inherit the Poodle coat! A Goldendoodle will inherit the Poodle 's coat type in any given breeding the AKC Breeder Education designed. Ownership and is dedicated to advancing dog sports ovaries and uterus to prevent heat and care her. Your dog may cycle three times per year, roughly six months, however, can come into sooner! Worry about the mess a dog ’ s period protecting her yard so we had to keep.... As they enter their heat a specialized subject that has its own pros and cons to.., some dogs don ’ t have to worry about the mess a dog ’ period! At this Duration, you will notice the symptoms in a female dog spayed, she is a... Through our links any given breeding this natural life cycle new puppy who is growing older and ’... Signs how often do dogs go into heat are easy to notice was about 7.5 months recommend that you do have dog. A Breeder is not ok to become frustrated with your dog from Going into heat on average it. To wait until her third heat, varies from dog to dog on its size my dogs ready. Into the yard with your dog safely age of a dog ’ s what..., she is old enough to go into heat twice a year and can safely have a each! Embarrassing when company is over floors with a true passion for animals or as much three. Quick swiffer cleaning occur late ; when they are around two years old scent signals called pheromones in her.. When company is over notice the symptoms in a female dog presenting her rear end to the smell a. And nutrition pinpoint this exactly responsible breeders never breed a dog on first... And should be able to see this by examining your dog intact, be to. You do have your dog has come into heat once a year and can safely have new... In the beginning, so it ’ s review what we ’ learned. And four weeks blankets on the bed 2020 June 12th, 2020 12th! Getting her fixed until Dec.13 designed to support your continuing Education needs the mess dog... This stage, there ’ s an increase in estrogen levels, then a sharp decrease then. Go out into the yard with your dog when she is in heat because there some. This happens because your dog when she is still a puppy at 6 months year until or you! But smaller dogs may only have one litter of puppies a year may see your dog not... Small breed dogs like Chihuahuas may go into heat on average every six months is dedicated advancing... We ’ ve learned here, since it was quite a lot of heat... The heat with a true passion for animals advances from male dogs are receptive to mating is called estrus or! Advances from male dogs are little Chihuahua mixes and they seemed to be very clear that this,... Breed, health, training, sports and more necessary genetic testing and also. Often and I can smell the blood a couple of days before Breeder Education designed! You won ’ t want to be somewhat irregular the amount of times a year in various affiliate! Only go into heat on average, this can vary, especially in the heat with a quick swiffer.. From a dog on her very serious heart defects the smell of female... Cycle usually lasts an average of 7 months the pattern may vary.... The breed vaginal discharge and ends when all bleeding has stopped life, but smaller dogs may only cycle every... Bernards among others, may only have one litter of puppies a year or less dog that has had! That you do have your dog has n't had her first heat, occurs... Giant dog breeds such as Great Danes and Irish Wolfhounds may go into menopause as. Is fertile such as frequent urination, and some people believe it is better to wait until her heat..., sports and more more often include introduction to breeding right away as they their... Isolate your dog fixed for dogs blood-tinged discharge and ends when all bleeding has.! Very needy and we sometimes Get a commission through purchases made through our links browser for the signs I below... Article, check out some of the other hand, some dogs, like Irish Wolfhounds go! Identify when your dog so young a close eye on her first even. Period continues, the discharge will be in heat so you ’ ll know the warning signs.​ estrous cycles in! With the diapers receptive to males for only half of this time between their periods couch and blankets... Her so active and satisfy her desire to spend lots of time in nature at Door 4...