How to Take Care of Dogs in the Estrous Cycle

Starting at about 6 months of age and then twice a year after that, unsterilized female dogs experience their 3-week estrous cycle, or as it is more commonly known, they go into heat. During this time a female dog is responsive to potential mates, and male dogs will come from miles away and try just about anything to obtain access to her. Knowing how to care for a female in her estrous cycle is important for her health and wellbeing. To keep your dog safe from males during her cycle, follow the advice outlined below.

Things You'll Need

  • Leash
  • Mentholated chest rub
  • Chlorophyll
  • Dog diapers
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Instructions

    • 1

      Determine whether your dog is entering her cycle. Telltale signs include a noticeable swelling of the vulva, the secretion of bloody fluid, and male dogs lurking outside your door. Your dog may also begin to display "mounting" behavior.

    • 2

      Keep her indoors and do not allow her to go outside unattended. Even so, you may find gentleman callers waiting on your steps or hanging out in your yard waiting for their dream girl to emerge. Do not be polite. Yell "Go home!" and shield your dog from their advances.

    • 3

      Keep her on a leash when she needs to potty and supervise her at all times when she is outdoors. She is a walking magnet for all the boys during her estrous cycle.

    • 4

      Shut the windows. The scent of a female in heat can be picked up by male dogs up to 3 miles away. Closing the windows won't make the scent go away completely, but it can minimize the damage.

    • 5

      Guard the fence. Your dog may not be able to jump out, but a motivated male may be able to jump in. Also, dogs have been known to do the deed through the holes in a chain link fence.

    • 6

      Dab mentholated chest rub just below the base of her tail. Masking her scent can foil the plans of the most ardent suitor. If you also have an intact male dog, try rubbing a bit on his nose to throw him off her scent.

    • 7

      Have her take chlorophyll. Put it in her water or hide capsules in small pieces of cheese. According to Dog Fancy magazine, owners have had some degree of success using this method to cover a female's scent. It seems to work better for smaller breeds, perhaps because the chlorophyll is present in a higher concentration.

    • 8

      Do what you can to soothe your dog and keep her calm. She's likely to be restless, fretful and even disobedient when she's in heat and will need more of your time and attention. Make room in your day for extra grooming sessions, brushing slowly and speaking softly to your dog. Keep her away from activities that are likely to get her excited.

    • 9

      Protect your furniture and carpet from unintentional staining by putting protective pants on the dog (see Resources). Or fashion your own from disposable diapers with a hole cut out for the tail. You'll need enough to keep her covered for at least the first 2 weeks of her cycle.