How Long Does a Dog Stay in Heat?

Proestrus.

This is the stage where most pet parents say, “My dog is in heat!”. Lasting for an average of nine days, this is the stage where male dogs will be attracted to your furbaby but your female dog will not feel the same way. The levels of estrogen are will start to rise, the vulva will begin swelling, and a blood-tinged discharge will be present but only in small amounts.

Estrus.

This stage is where your female dog will become responsive to the males lurking around her. Estrus is the stage where your dog will be most fertile and will usually last an average of 9 days.

This is the best stage to breed your dog, given that it’s not her first or second heat and she is both physically & mentally prepared for pregnancy. If she is not, then you might consider taking pregnancy prevention methods.

Diestrus.

The third stage of the estrous cycle where your dog will no longer be fertile or receptive to the male dogs. Your dog’s hormones will begin going back to their normal levels, given she is not pregnant.

Anestrus.

If your dog is not pregnant, this is the dormant stage of the estrous cycle, waiting for the next proestrus to begin. Most dogs will go into heat twice a year but certain breeds, like the Rhodesian ridgeback and the Basenji, only go into heat once a year. Additionally, Pets WebMD says that the frequency of estrous cycles depends on your dog, but should be consistent. If it isn’t, talk to your vet so they can determine why your dog is having irregularities.

If she is pregnant, she will be giving birth in about 62 to 64 days. It’s a good idea to speak with your veterinarian about your dog so you know what to expect.

Keep the Boys Away. If you want to prevent pregnancy, it’s important to keep intact males away. Males can smell a female in an estrous cycle from miles away and, if left to their own, will do whatever it takes to get to her and mate. Intact male dogs have even been known to jump and scale the fences of yards to get to the “girl next door”.

Never let your female dog out into the backyard by herself, and, when walking her, make sure she is always on a lead.

Pay Attention to Her Energy Levels. Many females in heat will not be as active as usual. This is normal. This doesn’t mean, however, that your dog shouldn’t get any exercise for those weeks. Continue to play with your dog and take her for walks, paying attention to her energy levels. If you normally walk for half an hour in the morning but notice she is dragging after 10 minutes, then cut your walks shorter during her cycle.

Keep Her Groomed. Depending on the breed, many dogs will need to be groomed while in their estrous cycle, with a focus on the coat surrounding the private parts, so that bloody discharge doesn't dry in the fur. If this happens, it means additional clean-up and potential infections.

Get Some Doggie Diapers. There’s no pretty way to say this… But while in heat, your dog will have bloody discharge. This discharge can and will get on your carpet, furniture, and floors. Pet Parents^® Washable Dog Diapers are a perfect solution to keep your house clean and mess-free. Our diapers for dogs come in many different sizes and colors so you’re sure to find a solution that fits your dog just right.

Support Her with Pads and Blankets. You may want to consider using Pawtect® Blankets as these blankets are made to help protect your couches and car seats from getting soiled by your dog’s bloody discharge. Additionally, Pawtect® Pads can also be used as bedding to your furbaby's bed and crate or place it on the floor where she usually lies down. So, if accidental leaks happen, the pad soaks up the mess and her favorite place to rest stays clean and dry.

Consider Spaying Your Dog. Spaying is not only a great way for your dog to no longer experience estrous cycles but also controls the homeless pet population. It also helps in keeping your dog healthy and improve their quality of life. Spayed female dogs show a lower incidence of breast, ovarian, and cervical cancers, and typically live longer.

Speak with Your Vet to Find Out More. Now when your pup goes into her first heat you won't have to frantically ask, “How long does my dog's heat last?”. But instead, you'll be able to identify the signs and prepare all the necessary things for a happy and healthy cycle.