How to Care for a Dog During Her Heat Cycle (Estrus)249

The heat cycle, also known as estrus, is a natural process that all female dogs go through. It is a time when the dog is fertile and can become pregnant. The heat cycle typically lasts for about 2-3 weeks, and occurs about every 6 months. During this time, there are a few things that you can do to help your dog stay comfortable and healthy.

Signs of Heat Cycle in Dogs

The first sign of heat cycle in dogs is usually a bloody discharge from the vagina. This discharge may be light or heavy, and it may last for several days. Other signs of heat cycle include:
Swelling of the vulva
Increased urination
Restlessness
Aggression
Increased appetite
Licking of the genitals

Caring for Your Dog During Heat Cycle

There are a few things that you can do to help your dog stay comfortable and healthy during her heat cycle. These include:
Keep her clean. The bloody discharge from the vagina can be messy, so it is important to keep your dog clean during her heat cycle. You can do this by bathing her regularly, or by using a dog diaper or sanitary napkin.
Provide her with a quiet place to rest. Your dog may be more restless and irritable during her heat cycle, so it is important to provide her with a quiet place to rest. This could be a crate, a bed in a quiet corner of the house, or even a spot in the yard where she can be away from other animals.
Monitor her for signs of infection. The bloody discharge from the vagina can be a breeding ground for bacteria, so it is important to monitor your dog for signs of infection. These signs include redness, swelling, or discharge that is foul-smelling or purulent.
Keep her away from male dogs. If you do not want your dog to become pregnant, it is important to keep her away from male dogs during her heat cycle. Male dogs can be attracted to the scent of a female in heat, and they may try to mate with her.

When to Call the Vet

In most cases, the heat cycle is a normal process that does not require veterinary attention. However, there are some cases when you should call your vet. These include:
If the heat cycle lasts for more than 3 weeks.
If the bloody discharge is heavy or foul-smelling.
If your dog is showing signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge that is foul-smelling or purulent.
If your dog is having difficulty urinating or defecating.
If your dog is experiencing any other unusual symptoms.

2024-11-12

Previous：How to Identify Dog Breeds

Next：Property Manager‘s Guide to Dog Care