Managing your dogs heat / season

Understanding the Heat Cycle in More Detail

A female dog's heat cycle is part of her reproductive process and consists of different phases, each with its own hormonal and physical changes.

📌 The Four Stages of the Canine Heat Cycle

1️⃣ Proestrus (Preparation Phase) – Lasts 7–10 days

The vulva begins swelling, and light bleeding starts.
The dog attracts males, but she is not yet ready for mating.
Hormones, particularly estrogen, are rising, preparing the body for ovulation.

2️⃣ Estrus (Fertile Phase) – Most Critical Phase – Lasts 5–10 days

Ovulation occurs, meaning the dog is fertile and capable of becoming pregnant.
Bleeding may lighten, and she may accept male dogs.
Progesterone levels rise, supporting the potential for pregnancy.

3️⃣ Diestrus (Post-Fertility Phase) – Lasts ~60 days

The body either prepares for pregnancy or begins returning to normal.
If pregnancy occurs, progesterone remains high; if not, it starts declining.
Phantom pregnancies may develop due to lingering progesterone levels.

4️⃣ Anestrus (Resting Phase) – Lasts ~4–5 months

The reproductive system rests, allowing hormones to stabilise.
No visible signs of heat occur during this period.

Additional Symptoms & Emotional Changes

Many female dogs undergo significant emotional shifts during their heat cycle, similar to mood changes in humans due to hormonal fluctuations:

🔹 Increased neediness – Some dogs become very affectionate, while others seem more withdrawn.

🔹 Heightened anxiety – The hormonal surge can make dogs feel stressed or unsettled.

🔹 Restlessness & disrupted sleep patterns – They may pace, whine, or struggle to sleep soundly.

🔹 Nesting behavior – Some dogs seek cosy spaces, gather bedding, or mother toys.

How to Provide the Best Care During Heat

✔️ Track the Cycle – Mark the first day of bleeding to estimate when the fertile period occurs.

✔️ Monitor Appetite & Energy Levels – Some dogs eat less, while others have an increased appetite. Offer small, nutritious meals if needed.

✔️ Limit Stress – Avoid sudden environmental changes that may increase anxiety.

✔️ Provide Distractions – Mental stimulation reduces frustration (try puzzle feeders, interactive toys, and gentle training).

✔️ Keep Her Indoors During Peak Fertility – Prevent unwanted mating by closely supervising her outdoors.

✔️ Avoid Overstimulation of Mammary Glands – If she starts producing milk, discourage excessive licking, which can stimulate further lactation.

✔️ Consider Supplements for Support – Natural aids like Dorwest Raspberry Leaf can support hormonal balance and reduce phantom pregnancy risks.

Why Spaying May Be Considered

If you're not planning to breed your dog, spaying is recommended to prevent:

🚫 Phantom pregnancies

🚫 Risk of pyometra (life-threatening uterine infection)

🚫 Unwanted pregnancies

Spaying should be discussed with your vet, considering your dog's overall health and breed-specific factors.

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