Everything about estrus in dogs: from physiological characteristics to nuances of behavior

Estrus (also: estrus, estrus, heat) in dogs, regardless of breed, occurs 2 times a year. Most often observed in bitches in the autumn-spring periods. The animal's body undergoes physiological and mental changes during this period. Therefore, during heat, the pet requires increased attention and care. However, novice dog breeders usually don’t know what to do with a female dog in heat. This article is devoted to how to help the dog during this period, choose the right moment of mating, and not harm its health.

How is estrus going?

If the breeder has a good understanding of the basic physiological aspects of the process, then no special problems arise. If the owner has no idea what is happening in the dog’s body, then there is a high risk of unwanted pregnancy. For breeding bitches intended for breeding, this can cause subsequent culling. That is why it is important to understand how estrus occurs and what dangers await your pet during this period.

Estrus phases

The entire period of the cycle can be divided into four phases. Each of them has its own physiological nuances and behavioral signs.

1. Proestrus . This phase is also called the precursor phase. Duration ranges from 7 to 10 days . At this stage, the dog shows the first signs of impending estrus. The blood supply to the external genital organs increases, they increase in size and “swell”. A few days later the first spotting appears. For the most comfortable keeping in the house, you should purchase special underpants for your dog, which will allow you to avoid unpleasant surprises on the floor and interior items.

The pet's behavior also undergoes significant changes. The animal becomes less controllable, actively marks its territory, and shows interest in male dogs. She's flirting, but not ready for mating yet. When trying to mate, it shows aggression, moves to the side or sits on the ground.

2. Estrus . The second name of the phase is rut. The period of sexual hunting itself. During the first 2-3 days after the onset of estrus, ovulation occurs. Several eggs are released from the ovaries, ready for fertilization. This phase begins on average 11 days after the start of bleeding. The owner should remember that the dog allows male dogs in for several days, and not just at the time of ovulation. Consequently, the risk of unwanted pregnancy from outbred males persists for quite a long time.

The classic sign that demonstrates the female’s readiness for mating is the complete absence of discharge, as well as a change in bloody color to transparent or light pink. A heavily swollen loop is also a characteristic sign that the dog is ready to mate. When trying to stroke the base of the tail, the female moves it to the side, raises her pelvis and freezes in this position.

Pay attention to our article: Dog mating. From theory to practice

3. Metaestrus . Its duration is about 60-100 days . The discharge has stopped and the size of the vulva is gradually decreasing. The female shows aggression towards males who show interest in her. The attenuation of sexual activity gradually appears.

During this same phase, the animal experiences an increased amount of progesterone. The result is often a false pregnancy.

4. Anestrus. This name is given to the period between two heats. Its duration ranges from 4 to 8 months .
The duration of the period varies depending on the breed, size and age of the pet, as well as the individual characteristics of the organism. Different cycle lengths can be observed even in one individual and this depends on its physiological and psychological state, as well as a number of other factors.

Cycle timing

Dog menstruation follows a floating schedule. This is because the start and end dates constantly shift throughout the year. Without regular records, it becomes impossible to track the real state of affairs.

How many days does it last

On average, bitches are in heat for 20-22 days. The duration is influenced by the following factors:

1. Season. In spring and summer the duration is longer than in autumn and winter. This factor loses its relevance if the animal is kept at home and not on the street.
2. Conditions of detention. If you have several animals of different sexes, then menstruation will be early and long. Sexual maturity occurs early in such cohabitants, so be prepared to protect your pet from unwanted pregnancy.
3. Breed. The smaller the pet, the shorter the duration of its sexual cycle.
4. Age. The duration of estrus gradually decreases with age. Despite this, animals give healthy offspring up to 6 years of age.
5. Activity. Menstruation lasts the longest in dogs that prefer a sofa lifestyle.

Consider the characteristics of your pet to plan or avoid future mating. Fluctuations in the cycle until the bitch is 1.5-2 years old are normal and should not cause concern.

What is the frequency

Responsible owners need to know how often dogs go into heat. This helps to protect against damage to furniture and other unpleasant consequences.

The average frequency of estrus in dogs is once every six months. In native northern breeds, menstruation occurs once a year, and in shepherd dogs and Rottweilers - every 4 months. For domestic animals, pustovka occurs during the cold seasons, while for those living on the street, it occurs only in the summer.

Deviations include situations when the period between the end and the beginning of discharge lasts more than 8 months or is less than 4 months. At this frequency, it is recommended to be examined at a veterinary clinic.

First heat and its features

A dog's first heat begins at 6-12 months. The exact time depends on the breed of the animal. In rare cases, it occurs for 1.5-2 years. If by this time the discharge has not appeared, contact the veterinary clinic.

The duration of the first empty space is the shortest and can be about a week. In representatives of large breeds, the signs are weakly expressed, and ovulation may not occur. Also, in young animals, a small amount of purulent discharge is allowed. This phenomenon is called juvenile vaginitis and goes away on its own after the end of menstruation.

Signs and symptoms of estrus

For an experienced breeder, the first heat will never come as a surprise. But what if this is your first dog or until now you have only kept males? Veterinarians remind that there are a number of signs that will help an observant owner recognize an approaching heat and prepare for its onset.

The most characteristic signs indicating a dog’s puberty include:

• Swelling of the genital loop. At first it is slightly noticeable, but after a few days the swelling increases;
• Frequent urination;
• The appearance of bloody discharge in the urine;
• The appearance of bloody discharge;
• Behavior change. The animal becomes aggressive towards other females and becomes nervous;
• There may be a change in appetite. The dog may completely refuse food or begin to absorb it in larger quantities than usual;
• Flirts with male dogs;
• At the moment of touching the pelvic area, the dog freezes and moves its tail to the side;

Another sign of estrus is molting. It can cause additional troubles to the owner, in addition to the classic discharge during this period.

It is important to understand that during the first heat the signs may not be clearly expressed and it is quite easy to miss the start of the cycle. Males, at the same time, may not pay attention to the female. Or they may show increased attention to her. This is due to the hormonal background of the animal and it is practically impossible to predict the development of events.

Estrus and health

Owners of unsterilized female dogs need to be aware of several health-related issues. This will help you make decisions about surgery if necessary.

Recovery of the cycle after childbirth

The cycle normalizes 4-6 months after birth. The delay time depends on the duration of lactation and the size of the litter. To fully restore the body, it is recommended to wait until mating until the next menstruation.

False heat

This kind of estrus occurs in young bitches. It is accompanied by all the listed signs, but excludes ovulation. Because of this, any attempt at mating is doomed to failure. This phenomenon is not dangerous to health and is characterized by a sudden disappearance of the symptoms that have arisen.

Hidden heat

This menstruation is the opposite of false menstruation, that is, it is accompanied by ovulation without obvious symptoms. In rare cases, the situation is explained by a pathology of the thyroid gland, so play it safe and undergo a full examination at the veterinary clinic.

Dog sterilization

Due to the high likelihood of developing cancer in unsterilized and uncrossed dogs, veterinarians recommend sterilizing all animals not involved in breeding. The operation is carried out 14-20 days after the end of emptying.

Is it possible to vaccinate a bitch in heat?

Veterinarians have not reached a consensus on this issue. In the presence of chronic diseases and severe pain, it is recommended to wait until the end of menstruation. Vaccination of healthy individuals is acceptable.

Regular monitoring of your menstrual cycle will help you avoid possible problems. With it you can easily identify abnormalities that require a visit to the veterinarian. Avoid using hormonal medications and consider sterilization. Remember that the earlier the operation is performed, the lower the likelihood of developing cancer and other dangerous diseases.

The article is for informational purposes only. Contact your veterinarian!

How does a dog's behavior change during heat?

During the period of estrus, the mood and behavior of the dog undergoes significant changes. The animal becomes less controllable. There may be difficulties with behavior during walks. A previously perfectly trained dog may refuse to follow basic commands, show dissatisfaction at the end of a walk, react aggressively to other bitches and show increased attention to males of any breed.

A negative reaction to individuals of the same sex continues throughout the entire period of sexual hunting. But the female begins to let males in from the second phase. That is why dog ​​handlers and experienced breeders strive to teach a dog to wear special underpants and prefer to walk the animal only on a leash. This allows you to reduce the risk of unwanted pregnancy, as well as maintain control over your pet’s behavior.

Limiting your dog's walks in crowded places will help avoid the consequences of inappropriate behavior and reduce the risk of unpleasant situations.

FAQ

On what day of heat should a dog be bred?

This indicator is individual for each individual. The optimal period is considered to be 9-13 days. Breeders keep a calendar and calculate the best day for mating empirically.

Is it possible to spay a dog during heat or should I wait until it is over?

There is no clear answer to this question. This should be answered by a veterinarian. The doctor must take into account the dog’s health status and the presence of medical contraindications.

Can a dog get pregnant without being in heat?

Of course not. A pregnancy that is unexpected for the animal’s owners is the result of an estrus that went unnoticed.

What should you do if your dog has swollen mammary glands after estrus?

Immediately show the animal to the doctor, he will be able to make a diagnosis. A symptom usually has two causes. The first is that fertilization has passed and pregnancy has occurred. The second is false pupishness.

How many times do dogs come into heat per year? What frequency is considered normal?

In veterinary medicine, a frequency of 1-2 times a year is considered conventionally normal. The indicator is individual.

Do spayed dogs go into heat?

If a sterilization operation is performed (without removing the reproductive organs), then the dog remains in estrus. If castration (ovariohysterectomy or ovariectomy) was performed, there should be no heat. The presence of bloody discharge after castration is a bad sign.

Until what age do dogs go into heat? At what age does this process stop?

Dogs do not have menopause; the estrous cycle continues throughout their lives. But, veterinarians and professional breeders believe that all dogs over 7 years of age must be sterilized with complete removal of the uterus and ovaries. Pregnancy and childbirth in dogs older than 7 years is a big risk and burden on the animal’s body.

We have a Labrador Retriever. The girl is not sterilized. The last heat was a little over a year ago. Why hasn't my dog ​​been in heat for a year?

You did not specify the age of the pet. In older pets (over 8 years old), estrus may occur less frequently and less intensely. A delay in young females indicates problems.

Is it possible to worm a dog during heat?

You can deworm and treat for external parasites without any restrictions. The only thing that cannot be done is vaccination.

Is it possible to wash a dog during heat?

There are two opinions on this matter. Some veterinarians believe that water procedures are completely contraindicated. The latter do not see the need to refuse the owners. They allow pets to be bathed. The only thing they are unanimous about is that you shouldn’t let your dog into open, cold water. There is a risk of infection and inflammation of the genitourinary system.

How to walk a bitch during heat?

The frequency of walking does not change. Where there are no or few other dogs. The leash is short. Excessive physical activity is not allowed. Before going outside, it is recommended to treat your dog with a spray that neutralizes the smell of a female dog in heat.

What to do if your dog doesn't eat after being in heat?

Lack of appetite after estrus may indicate serious problems with the reproductive system. Be sure to take your dog to the vet.

Does your dog have white discharge after being in heat? What to do?

White discharge, discharge of any other color (brown, green) is an indication for a visit to the veterinary clinic. Call a specialist immediately to your home if the discharge has a strong odor.

What time of year is it most common for dogs to go into heat?

Street pets usually go for walks with the arrival of spring. There is no such pattern for pets.

Timing of the onset of the first estrus in dogs of different breeds

As a rule, females of miniature breeds enter puberty much earlier than their larger female friends.

Thus, in Yorkshire terriers, French lapdogs, Italian greyhounds and toy terriers, the first heat occurs at the age of 5-6 months.

For animals of medium breeds, this period shifts to 7-9 months. Bitches belonging to large breeds (shepherd dogs, Labradors, Rottweilers) enter puberty closer to one year.

And representatives of giant breeds (St. Bernards, Great Danes) mature after a year and their first heat appears much later than in other females.

How often does this happen to an animal?

Basically, estrus occurs twice a year. The interval between them is 6 months. In the first seven days, the dog is not ready to mate. If male dogs act out, she will behave aggressively. On the ninth day, the female herself will want fertilization.

The frequency is affected by age and breed. The husky comes into heat once a year. In an old individual, sometimes the signs do not appear, but pregnancy can occur. The cycle gets disrupted due to hormonal problems. With anostria, hormones are produced in small quantities, so the female will not leak. It is important to ensure that a representative of a large breed does not approach a miniature dog. Otherwise, your pet will have serious health problems.

After childbirth, estrus occurs as before. The state of pregnancy causes the cycle to be delayed. A delay indicates a malfunction of the ovaries. This usually occurs due to the pituitary gland.

1. In adults, hypofunction is not observed. The reason is a difficult birth that caused pathology of the reproductive system. After the examination, the specialist will prescribe treatment aimed at restoring the cycle.
2. The owner can leave his dog with another pet who is in estrus. Sometimes other people's pheromones get rid of delays.
3. If problems persist, surgery may be required. In some cases, the veterinarian recommends sterilization.
4. Delay also appears with cancerous tumors. It is important to undergo regular examinations for preventive purposes.

Problems during heat

One of the most common problems faced by dog ​​owners is frequent urination immediately before the start of the emptying session. If the animal is not used to limiting itself, then it is recommended to increase the frequency of walks or transfer the pet to an enclosure where it will be alone.

The use of special panties and constant monitoring allows you to avoid unwanted pregnancy. If the dog stops obeying the owner and tries to escape during the walk, then the optimal solution would be to walk the animal on a leash during the off-leash period.

Some bitches may experience changes in the frequency of estrus, its intensity, or the appearance of uncharacteristic discharge. You should not try to figure out the problem yourself. You should seek help from a specialist who will identify the cause of this dog’s condition. It will also help correct the estrus cycle.

Preparation for mating and its implementation

Mating is carried out on the 11-15th day of the third emptying in the territory of the dog. 1.5 months before mating, animals are dewormed and checked by a veterinarian.

According to the method of knitting, it can be free and manual. In the first case, the animals do everything on their own, and in the second, their owners help them. Hand knitting is typical for small breeds and untied animals. During this process, the owners help to mount and wait for mating - 5 minutes of mating after ejaculation. To consolidate the result, it is recommended to knit again.

Undesirable consequences of estrus

Subsequent complications include the mating of a small female with a large male, which will lead to the formation of large fruits. In this case, independent delivery is difficult. And if the breeder missed the moment of mating, then the supervision of a veterinarian is necessary in order to monitor the condition of the bitch.

There is also a danger of unwanted pregnancy from outbred males in females intended for breeding. If this becomes known, the pet will forever lose the right to participate in improving the line and maintaining the purity of the breed.

Unwanted pregnancy

If the breeder suspects that the bitch has been bred, then the only reasonable solution would be to visit a veterinarian. The specialist examines the dog and, based on its physiological state, selects a drug to terminate the pregnancy.

It should be understood that such a decision will not be easy and may cause certain health problems for the bitch in the future. Modern manufacturers offer a wide range of medications that can be used both on the first day after mating and a few days later.

Abortion could be a radical solution. In this case, the dog is no longer suitable for breeding because its uterus has been completely removed. In any case, the decision should be made only after consultation with a veterinarian. The specialist will talk about possible complications and adverse consequences of any choice of the breeder.

Pay attention to our article: Pregnancy in dogs: main signs

False pupishness.

If the bitch has not been bred, then after a short time she may show signs of pregnancy. This condition is called “false pregnancy” and is associated with an increased level of progesterone in the animal’s body.

It is extremely rare for a dog to cope with the problem on its own and its hormonal levels gradually return to normal. In most cases, the help of a veterinarian is necessary, who selects a course of medications to normalize hormonal levels and stabilize the psychological state of the pet.

We have previously written about false pregnancy in dogs: False pregnancy in dogs - what to do and how to treat?

Possible problems and consequences

Possible problems include variations in timing. Contact your veterinarian if:

• the appearance of a delay of 9-10 months;
• menstruation lasting less than 10 or more than 30 days;
• any deviations in the cycle after 2 years, including a delay in the first emptying;
• increased frequency of menstruation;
• abundance or intense color of discharge.

The animal may also experience a false or unwanted pregnancy. The first can be eliminated with medication, and the second can be eliminated by competent avoidance of male dogs or surgical intervention.

How to discourage male dogs

In addition to walking on a short leash, it is possible to use sprays that fight off the smell of a bitch in heat. They are applied to the back of the body before each walk. Domestic products are also represented by BioVax.

Unwanted pregnancy

Unwanted pregnancies are treated with abortifacients or surgery. In the latter case, the surgeon cuts out the uterus, which excludes the dog from further breeding.

False pregnancy

If you notice signs of pregnancy in an unmated pet, contact your veterinarian. Physiological changes occur due to an excess of progesterone and rarely disappear on their own. In most cases, the problem can only be solved with drug treatment. Without the help of a veterinarian, there is a high chance of developing mastitis or pyometra.

How to discourage male dogs during heat

It is not possible to completely discourage male dogs during the period of heat. But manufacturers offer a whole range of high-quality and effective sprays that will help partially eliminate the odor and reduce the number of males attracted.

The following products are available on the domestic market:

• Spray from ;
• “True Friend” - eliminates oestrus odor;
• Manufacturer Le Artis offers touch-me-not spray;
• From the domestic manufacturer Himol, you can find the drug “Antikobelin” on store shelves.

It’s worth noting right away that it will not be possible to completely remove the smell of a bitch and males will still pursue her when free-walking. But the aroma that attracts them will become significantly less and the likelihood of attracting animals from more distant territories will be much lower.

When does heat start?

Even the most experienced breeder with many years of experience will not be able to determine exactly when the estrus period will begin, since this process is unpredictable and purely individual. However, there are general physiological norms according to which the period of maturity of a female can be approximately determined. For example, those very days do not come until the baby teeth are completely replaced, therefore, you can’t expect anything until six months.

The onset of estrus largely depends on the size and breed of the animal. Small ones flow earlier and more often, large ones much later and less often. And also everything depends on the blood lines, usually the daughter’s period of puberty coincides with the mother’s.

How to keep a bitch and a dog in the same room when the bitch is in heat

Safely keeping a dog and a bitch in the same room during the emptying period is a difficult and troublesome task. For a bitch, you need to stock up on a large number of special panties that are securely fixed on her body and prevent unscheduled mating. The use of sprays can reduce the intensity of the odor and partially alleviate the condition of the dog.

Manufacturers of veterinary drugs also offer sedatives that will help the pet survive the most dangerous period of emptying. How safe are these medications? Of course, they are not beneficial for the dog’s health. Should I use sedatives on my dog ​​if the bitch is in heat? The answer to this question must be decided by the animal owner himself.

One of the most effective and efficient methods is to separate dogs during estrus. It is necessary to place the animals in different rooms to minimize the risk of unwanted mating. Also, some breeders practice "vacation". During the period of heat, the male is simply sent to close friends or relatives.

Anti-estrus medications

There are two types of drugs used in veterinary medicine:

• hormonal, disrupting estrus;
• non-hormonal, reducing the pet’s libido and arousal.

Hormonal drugs to stop estrus

Drugs in this group interrupt and prevent estrus. But, they cannot be used uncontrollably and constantly, like contraceptives. Only a veterinarian should prescribe hormonal medications. They are introduced according to the scheme. Once the drugs wear off, dogs go through a natural estrous cycle. These products are not an alternative to sterilization. They are used with caution due to the high risk of complications .

This method of reversible contraception is recommended for use in isolated cases when the estrous cycle falls at an inconvenient time for the owners. Most often it is done to dogs during foster care, before exhibitions, competitions or while traveling. Sometimes hormonal drugs are prescribed for medicinal purposes. Hormonal drugs are not used if estrus has already occurred.

Drugs that stop estrus:

• Kovinar (Netherlands). Injectable contraceptive to prevent estrus and treat false pregnancy. The active ingredient of the drug (prolygestone) is a steroid hormone. This substance suppresses the production of sex hormones in the bitch. Price: 20 ml. – from 1800 to 2200 rub.
• Sex Control (Russia). Domestic contraceptive in tablets and drops. The active ingredient of the drug is the hormonal substance megestrol acetate. Prescribed to female dogs to delay and interrupt estrus. Prescribed by a veterinarian. Dosage is calculated by weight. Course admission required. Price: pack of 10 tablets. – 120 rub.; drops 5 ml. – 115 rub.
• Sex Barrier (Russia). A drug with a contraceptive effect. Available in drops and tablet form. Interrupts sexual heat and normalizes the dog's behavior. Price: pack of 10 tablets. – 170 rub.; drops 3 ml. – 245 rub.
• Stop Intimate Api San (Russia). Hormonal agent for regulating sexual desire. Available in tablet form. It is given orally to female dogs to delay or interrupt estrus. Price: pack of 12 tablets. – 190 rub.
• CounterSex Neo (Russia). Veterinary contraceptive pills and drops. Inhibits reproductive function, regulates sexual desire. Use orally as prescribed by a veterinarian. Price: bottle 2 ml. – 128 rub., pack of 10 tablets. – 77 rub.
• EKS-5 and EKS-7.5 (Russia). An effective remedy for suppressing ovulation, correcting behavior and suppressing sexual desire. The composition of the drugs is identical, differing only in the dosage of the active substance (megestrol acetate). Price: 5 ml bottle. – 280 rub., pack of 10 tablets. – 105 rub.
• Pillkan 5 (France). A drug with an antiovulation effect is prescribed for a one-time cessation of estrus or its delay. Has a hormonal basis. Available in the form of sugar cubes, which are dissolved in food or water or given by hand. Price: pack 8 cu. – 550 rub.
• Ovostop (Russia). The new generation contraceptive is available in the form of drops on the withers in pipettes. Suppresses the onset of ovulation, corrects behavior. Price: pack 2 pip. – 315 rub.

Contraindications

Like all hormonal drugs, contraceptives for dogs have contraindications:

1. Lactation period.
2. Pregnancy.
3. Neoplasms (benign and malignant).
4. Diabetes.
5. Pathologies of the genitourinary system.
6. Urolithiasis disease.
7. First heat.
8. Diseases of the mammary glands and genital organs.
9. Concomitant use with corticosteroids is prohibited.

Side effect of hormonal drugs

You need to take hormonal contraceptives according to the regimen prescribed by your veterinarian. During treatment, the dog must be shown to a doctor in order to determine therapeutic effectiveness and timely detection of side effects.

1. Swelling of the mammary glands.
2. Lethargy and apathy.
3. Increased appetite.
4. Obesity.
5. Development of pathologies of the genital area.
6. Decreased immunity to sexually transmitted infections.

Important!

It is unacceptable to give dogs drugs of this group, based on reviews from owners and data from free sources. Hormonal medications should be prescribed by a veterinarian.

Drops, tablets and suspensions to reduce sexual arousal

Drugs in this group do not stop estrus. They reduce the dog’s emotional arousal and help the animal survive this period more easily and calmly.

Means to reduce sexual arousal:

• Hormone Balancer Flower Essence Drops (Australia). The best herbal preparation for eliminating behavioral disorders of a hormonal nature: estrus, false pregnancy, postpartum condition. Price: bottle 25 ml. – 2700 rub.
• Da-ba Relax Plus (Latvia). A sedative improves the functioning of the nervous system. Helps the dog survive stress during estrus. Price: pack of 30 tablets. – 450 rub.
• Stop Stress Api San (Russia). Drops to reduce sexual arousal and correct dog behavior. Price: bottle 15 ml. – 260 rub.

How to discourage male dogs from the current female

To reduce the interest of male dogs in a walking bitch, you can use veterinary agents to neutralize the odor.

Remedies to reduce the interest of male dogs during heat:

• Canina Dog-Stop Spray (Germany). The spray is sprayed onto the dog's backside, tail and thighs. Repeat the treatment twice a day: morning and evening. The spray effectively stops the odor emanating from a female dog in heat. Stops unwanted advances from male dogs. Price: bottle 100 ml. – 1050 rub.
• Antikobelin. (Russia). Deodorizing spray that removes the smell of bitches in heat. Twice a day you need to treat the dog's tail, hind legs, and perineum. Price: bottle 150 ml. – 180 rub.
• DOG STOP FORTE (Germany). Dragee to reduce the specific odor of a bitch during heat. Herbal preparation. During estrus, daily intake is necessary. Price: pack of 60 tablets – 1200 rub.

Important!

If you do not have the opportunity to buy drugs to neutralize the smell of the bitch, use a proven folk remedy - a concentrated decoction of bay leaves. You can use any eau de parfum for the same purpose.

Veterinarian advice

The correct behavior of the owner during the dog’s heat period is the key to its health and well-being in its subsequent life. Veterinarians remind that if the breeder does not currently plan to obtain offspring from the dog, then it should not be bred.

Every mating is a huge risk of getting an unwanted pregnancy. Before estrus, your veterinarian may prescribe a course of medications that prevent ovulation. After the end of estrus, you need to carefully monitor the condition of the animal. After 2 months, signs of a false pregnancy may appear. In this case, you will need to consult a specialist and possibly prescribe medications.

If the owner does not plan to breed a bitch, then sterilization will be a good solution, which will immediately solve the problem of unwanted pregnancy.

General condition of the bitch

You can understand that a dog is in heat either using a special calendar or based on the symptoms it exhibits. The first option is more reliable, but is completely unsuitable for determining the first void.

Behavior

A dog's behavior before going into heat manifests itself in different ways. Some show aggression, others show excessive friendliness, and others show apathy. Such states are individual, but rarely coincide with the usual state of the pet. If you notice the first behavioral changes, do not forget to check the physiological ones. Only together do they indicate the onset of menstruation.

Physiological changes

Physiological symptoms of estrus in a dog are manifested in loss of appetite, deviation of body temperature from normal and the appearance of urinary incontinence. Eternally hungry animals begin to refuse their favorite food or finickyly dig into the bowl, throwing out some of the food. There is an increase in body temperature within 0.5 °C. Frequent urination occurs due to increased estrogen levels, which reduce the number of nerve cells in the bladder sphincter. As a result, the valve ceases to fulfill its role of containing urine.

How should an owner behave when his pet is in heat?

To prevent the estrus period from becoming an insurmountable nightmare for the whole family and making you regret the appearance of a pet, you need to prepare for the inevitable in advance. The following tips will be useful to you:

1. To ensure that your home, furniture, interior items, flooring and clothing are safe and do not get dirty during estrus, prepare special panties or protective diapers for animals in advance. Diapers and panties are selected according to the pet's weight category and height. It is worth noting that not everyone is happy to wear protective equipment; some try to remove their panties using their teeth, ride on their stomachs on the floor, and swing. In such cases, you need to wear a one-piece jumpsuit over the top. If the tailed lady categorically refuses to wear panties (diapers), then you will have to secure your home in a different way.
2. During the period of “growing up,” females attract males like a magnet. They can smell them over long distances. In order not to tease male dogs and not to fight off persistent courtship, it is best to walk with your girl away from other animals. Small dogs trained to wear a diaper can be left at home.
3. On “critical days,” the behavior of females changes dramatically. They can become aggressive or, conversely, too affectionate. Be patient, shorten the length of the walk, and don't let your girl off the leash.
4. During the period of heavy discharge, the bitch's genitals are not protected and are susceptible to infection. Make sure that she does not roll in the mud, swim or sit in the dust.
5. Females in heat should not participate in competitions, exhibitions and other events where a large number of animals are present.
6. Even if you are planning puppies, you should not breed a girl immediately after her first heat. You need to wait until she grows up and is fully mature to bear and feed offspring.
7. It is strictly forbidden to scold and punish a pet for damaging furniture and inappropriate behavior - this is nature. It is best to try to distract her, calm her down, and show understanding. You can also offer the female some kind of sedative based on medicinal herbs.

Dog pants

Special products help to maintain order in the apartment - underpants for dogs. Among the positive aspects of these devices, not only the absence of “tags” is noted, but also the prevention of infection in the bitch’s genital tract. The negative side is the fact that most animals do not like to wear “underwear”: in an attempt to remove them, the dog can chew or swallow them. In addition, during licking (which occurs instinctively), the panties will quickly become wet, which will require frequent changes.

Pants for dogs vary in models, fabrics, and designs. For example, there may be products with a hole for a tail, with pockets for pads, cotton, synthetic or nylon. Before purchasing a dog, you need to take several measurements: hips, tail circumference and others. It’s great if the product can be tried on. When purchasing, you need to carefully inspect the panties to exclude tight elastic bands and straps, thick seams and other nuances.