Female Australian Shepherds (Aussies) typically have their first heat cycle (estrus) between 6 to 13 months of age, though it can range from 6 months to over a year, with many coming into heat around 9 to 12 months, and sometimes a first "silent heat" goes unnoticed. Factors like genetics, size, and individual development influence the timing, with a wide variation being normal, but most will have a noticeable heat by 18 months.
4 Signs Your Dog Is Going into Heat
But it is rare if they go into heat before they reach six months of age. This article will explain what you have to know and prepare for your Australian shepherd and their heat cycles. While no specific duration is set in stone, they are commonly in the heat for three weeks.
Physical Signs
A small dog's first heat typically lasts about 2 to 3 weeks, with bleeding and swelling as common symptoms. Behavioral changes like restlessness or increased affection may occur. No medication is usually needed unless complications arise. Keep the dog clean and monitor for excessive bleeding or signs of infection.
Heat can be messy, having a packet of baby wipes on hand ready to go can help keep your home clean. Some dogs can get quite snuggly during their heat cycle, so make sure to make time for extra cuddles. Also make sure you dog has plenty of access to fresh clean water.
You will need to put a diaper on your dog at the beginning of their heat cycle. This will help prevent bloody discharge from being spread throughout your house. You should change your dog's diaper around every four hours during the day. At night, it is best to put your dog in a fresh diaper just before going to bed.
While there is no pain felt during a dog's heat cycle, they will still appreciate being made to feel comfortable during this period of time.
Proestrus is the start of the heat period when your dog's body is preparing to mate. Signs include a swollen vulva, blood-tinged discharge, excessive licking of the genital area, clingy behavior, and aggression toward male dogs.
Not necessarily. Some female dogs manage their hygiene well by licking themselves clean. However, for heavy bleeders or for your own convenience and cleanliness, pads can be a great help.
They do sometimes tend to pick a favorite person, but are generally affectionate to their entire families. A working dog at heart, the Aussie has a built-in affinity for herding. In fact, he may even try to herd his human pals! Aussies are incredibly smart, and often make the list of the most intelligent dogs.
During a puppy's first heat, hormonal changes cause vaginal swelling and discharge, prompting excessive licking that can cause rawness. To alleviate discomfort, use an Elizabethan collar to prevent licking and apply vet-approved soothing ointments. Keep the area clean and dry to avoid infections.
Appetite may change, with some dogs eating less than normal. While male dogs may begin to show interest, females in proestrus usually do not allow mating and may snap or growl if approached by a male. Owners often observe increased urination during this stage. This is not always related to hydration or bladder issues.
Dogs are generally in heat for 3-4 weeks. However, most don't bleed that entire time. But she will need to be away from all intact males during this time—the longer the better in order to be safe. As far as the reusable diapers go, it's okay to leave them on when she's in the house while actively bleeding.
Common behaviors for dogs in heat are restlessness, increased aggression or becoming more affectionate, increased urination, and licking their vulva. Physical changes can also include a swollen vulva, swollen nipples, and bloody vaginal discharge.
Spaying or neutering won't change who your dog is—but it may change some of the behaviors they no longer feel compelled to act on. That's often a positive shift for both dogs and their families. If you're worried about your dog's behavior before or after surgery, we're here to help you make a confident decision.
It is well documented that spaying and neutering before skeletal maturity is reached (before the growth plates have closed) will delay closure of the growth plates which will result in disproportionately long limbs.
Some retrospective studies have recently been published that show very early sterilization may delay closure of growth plates in big bones, meaning the animal gets a little bigger or longer. In some breeds, like German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers, this may lead to hip or joint issues.
Female dogs in heat are messy. The bloody discharge can make a mess of your furniture, carpets, etc. Doggy diapers can help.
Use a mild dog shampoo to wash her body. Use a washcloth to wash her sanitary area. Don't worry if you see a small amount of blood. This is normal while she is in heat.
Offer your dog a heating pad or give her a warm bath to reduce muscle spasms and encourage blood flow, which helps to manage cramps. Talk to your vet about giving your dog CBD or canine aspirin, both of which are often effective painkillers safe for your pup in prescribed doses.
Common signs of a dog entering heat include: Frequent urination: This is one of the most common signs that a dog is entering heat, especially if they're uncharacteristically urinating in the house.
The Mikki Dog Hygiene Pant are designed to provide protection to female dogs on heat while avoiding messy clean-ups for you. The Mikki Dog Hygiene Pants are a comfortable solution for your female dog whilst in season and can also help to save your furniture, carpets and clothing from accidents and staining.
You may also observe that her vulva is large, red, or swollen with some bleeding or blood-tinted discharge. Your dog will only bleed for around half of the total cycle, usually 7 to 10 days. Generally, bigger dogs bleed more than smaller dogs, but it varies between dogs. Some dogs bleed very little.