Dogs don't have a specific "time of year" for heat; it's a cyclical event happening roughly twice a year (every 6-7 months), varying by breed, size, and age, with smaller dogs often cycling more frequently and giant breeds less so, but there's no set season for domestic dogs except Basenjis and sled dogs. A dog's first heat can start between 4 to 24 months, and cycles become more regular over time, though they can still be irregular initially.
A heat/season is the fertile period of a dog's cycle when they can get pregnant. Dogs usually have their first heat at around 6 months old, and then every 6-7 months afterwards. Each heat tends to last approximately 16-18 days. Signs of a heat include a swollen vulva (private parts), bleeding, and changes in behaviour.
These signs include:
Dogs in heat
Female dogs are "in heat" when they have entered the fertile part of their reproductive cycle. A heat, on average, lasts for 3 weeks and a dog will usually go into heat every 6 to 8 months.
Here are 5 simple tips to help your pooch during her heat cycle:
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.
The 3-3-3 rule for dogs is a guideline for the adjustment period after adoption, representing 3 days (overwhelmed/hiding), 3 weeks (settling in/testing boundaries), and 3 months (feeling at home/bonding) to help owners manage expectations and provide patience, routine, and a calm environment, understanding that anxiety is normal as they decompress from a stressful past. It's a framework for recognizing stress and fostering trust, not a rigid timeline, but it helps owners understand why a new dog might seem timid or act out initially.
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.
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.
Other common signs a dog is in heat
Other dogs get an upset stomach due to hormonal changes. Some female dogs in estrus lose their appetite temporarily since they are focused on looking for a mate. Dogs may experience mood changes due to hormone fluctuations.
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.
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.
Do not leave your dog outside and unsupervised: A female dog in heat who's also outside and alone is the perfect company for a passerby (or stray) male dog looking to mate. Walk your dog with a leash: To safely walk your dog while she's in heat, you should always keep her on a leash despite her obedience skills.
A dog's heat cycle has four stages: Proestrus (attracts males, bloody discharge, not receptive), Estrus (fertile, accepts mating, discharge lightens), Diestrus (hormones decline, rest or pregnancy), and Anestrus (resting phase until next heat). These stages, from the beginning of bleeding to the start of the next cycle, involve distinct hormonal shifts, physical changes, and behavioral patterns, with Proestrus & Estrus being the actual "in heat" period.
Going Into Heat
Perhaps the dog is too young, intended for breeding purposes, or has just been purchased or adopted and has not yet visited the vet. Whatever the reason may be, female dogs will continue to go into estrus (heat) and menstruate until they are spayed. For this reason, they will require female dog diapers.
Your dog's personality won't fundamentally change—but hormone-driven behaviors often reduce. Spay/neuter can help with marking, roaming, aggression, and mounting in many dogs. The earlier the procedure (before sexual maturity), the more noticeable the behavioral benefits.
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.
While the benefits of spaying are well-documented, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider. For instance, the surgery carries the usual risks associated with anaesthesia and operation. There's also a chance of weight gain post-surgery and a small risk of urinary incontinence in later life.
The 3-3-3 rule is a roadmap for the first three days, three weeks, and three months after pet adoption. It emphasizes patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement to help pets acclimate to their new environment.
It is also good to take note that if your furbaby pleasures herself (while in heat) by licking once or twice a day, there is nothing to worry about. But if her licking behavior causes some skin irritation, it is better if you try to distract her whenever you see her starting to lick again.
Even though your dog will bleed, she isn't in pain during heat. However, being in heat can make your dog uncomfortable and fidgety. If her symptoms seem to be causing her pain, consult your vet.
The most commonly surrendered dog type is the "pit bull type" (including mixes), often due to negative stereotypes, breed-specific legislation, and high energy levels, followed by other popular breeds like German Shepherds, Huskies, and Labrador Retrievers that may not fit owner lifestyles. Breeds like Staffordshire Bull Terriers (especially mixes) also top surrender lists in some regions like Australia.
The time it takes for a dog to adjust to a new home can vary from one dog to another. Normally, it takes 2-3 weeks for a dog to adjust to a new home, but it can take up to 3 months for them to fully adjust behaviourally.
Keep introductions short by following the “three second rule”; count to three as the dogs sniff each other, say thanks or nice to meet you to the owner, and then excitedly call your dog away and continue your walk.