A dog in heat is similar to a human being’s menstrual cycle, except for one main difference. Even though both species are bleeding during the process, but their fertility levels are different.
When a human being goes through a period, they have a lower chance of pregnancy during sexual intercourse. However, when a dog is in heat, it means that she is ready to reproduce, so the chances of getting pregnant are exceptionally high.
It could be a scary experience to witness your female dog in heat for the first time, but we have some insights on this process and what you can do.
When Do Dogs Go Into Heat
If you have a female dog, it’s common to ask the question, “when do dogs go in heat?” Dogs can go into heat as young as four months old, but on average, they usually start at six months.
Keep in mind that smaller breeds tend to go in their heat cycle earlier than larger breeds. Some giant breeds can start their first cycle in 18 to 24 months old.
If you are a breeder, try not to breed your dog during the first and second cycles. This is mainly because the eggs are not mature yet, and the dog has not completed its development.
You can talk to your vet, and he or she can pinpoint when the dog is mature enough for the breeding process.
How Long Does a Dog Stay in Heat
The answer to the question “how long does a female dog stay in heat” varies between 2 to 4 weeks. At the beginning of the cycle, a female dog may not like the attention of a male dog, but as she gets further in the process, she will become more receptive.
The length of the cycle can be shorter or longer, and you will know when the cycle is complete. That is when the vulva returns to its normal size and is no longer bleeding.
There’s a small window when the dog is highly fertile during the heat cycle. Usually, it begins 9 to 10 days after they go in heat and can last for about five days. Despite these ranges, they can still get pregnant until the end of the cycle.
Keep in mind that every dog breed is different when it comes to determining how long do dogs stay in heat.
