How often should a dog go through a heat cycle?

How often should a dog go through a heat cycle?

Your dog will experience a heat cycle before she is able to get pregnant. Veterinarians suggest that you do not breed her during her first heat period unless it happens after she is 1 year old. Any earlier would stunt the growth of your young female. Most dogs go into heat 2 times a year, but it is common to skip one on occasion.

What happens to a dog in the second stage of heat?

In the second stage of heat she is actually fertile. Her posture will transform to a stance that invites procreation. Her bleeding will change from light pink to a golden sand color. Her vulva will remain swollen but is softer than before.

How often does a female spitz dog go into heat?

Any earlier would stunt the growth of your young female. Most dogs go into heat 2 times a year, but it is common to skip one on occasion. While in heat she will be able to breed with more than the one male.

What should I expect when my dog goes into heat?

The first thing you will recognize when your dog goes into heat is a swollen vulva and bloody discharge. Eggs are not released yet in this phase of her heat cycle. Male dogs will be chemically drawn to her more than ever before. She still will not show a major interest in them, until this 6-11 day stage comes to an end.

When does a dog go through its first heat cycle?

A dog’s first heat cycle can occur anywhere from 4 months to 2 years, depending on their size. Here’s what to know about a dog’s first heat cycle.

How old is the youngest dog in heat?

The youngest is about six months of age though sometimes a female will come into season younger. First heat can start as late as 12 or even 14 months of age or later in rare cases. Again, it can vary dog to dog.

When does a Labrador Retriever go into heat?

Medium sized dogs like Labrador Retrievers generally go into heat in that 6 month range, however it can be up to a year before they have their first heat. Owners of large breed dogs tend to be the ones that have heat cycle scares. That’s because large breed dogs may not have their first heat until two years of age.

How old do toy dogs have to be to be in heat?

Toy breeds can come into heat for the first time as young as four months, while large and giant breeds may be as old as two years before experiencing a first heat cycle. On average, most dogs will have their first heat cycle between six and 15 months of age. 1  What Signs Indicate That My Dog Is in Heat?