What Are the Signs of Chihuahuas Going Into Heat for the First Time?

If you own a Chihuahua that has not been spayed, it is important that you know what to watch for when she goes into heat. Because Chihuahuas are such small dogs, keeping large male dogs away from them when they are in heat is important. It is pretty simple to realize that your Chihuahua is in heat for the first time, as long as you watch for the symptoms. The symptoms will be the same every time she goes into heat.

  1. Vulva

    • One of the first things you might notice when your Chihuahua is beginning to go into heat is that her vulva will become swollen and enlarged. The vulva is toward her stomach from her anus and is the area where she urinates. While you might not notice a normal vulva, it will be noticeable when it is swollen. Watch for a swollen vulva when your Chihuahua is about six months old, then for every six months thereafter.

    Discharge

    • Soon after you notice a swollen vulva, the Chihuahua should begin to have discharge from her vagina. The discharge will be clear for the first few days and then will become thicker and cream colored. A few days later, the discharge will become bloody. Chihuahuas will generally be in heat for about 21 days, although they will not have discharge for the entire time. If your Chihuahua is indoors, purchase specially made diapers that she can wear while she is in heat so that her discharge will not damage anything.

    Behavior

    • Dogs act differently while they are in heat, and the Chihuahua is no exception. Expect your dog to lick her vulva frequently. She may simply do this because it is enlarged or she could be experiencing some minor pain. Dogs with long tails, like Chihuahuas, often hold their tails to the sides while they are in heat. Your dog will instinctively want to mate, so she may stand with her rear toward male dogs, in a position that would make it easier for them to mate. She also may whine to be near male dogs and may hump objects.

    Warning

    • The instinct to mate with a dog in heat is strong. Because Chihuahuas are tiny dogs, they could easily become injured by a much larger male dog attempting to mate. For that reason, it keep your Chihuahua in a safe area where larger dogs will not be able to reach her. Also, the scent of a dog in heat can rub off onto people who are in contact with her. Be aware that if small children are in close contact with your Chihuahua while she is in heat, large dogs could be attracted to them.