Signs of Mating Dogs

The endurance of a species of animal depends on the extent to which new generations are born -- and the numbers that subsequently survive, to continue the cycle of procreation. It is also true that one force that drives this survival process is the desire within the living animals to mate. This drive is strong in dogs.

  1. Puppies

    • As with most mammals, the most reproductive period for dogs comes with the virility and fertility of the period between puberty and the oncoming of the middle years. However, even in the prepubescent stage, puppies often show signs of an instinct to perform the actions if not the actualities of the reproduction process. Puppies at play can often be observed trying to mount each other. While these can be seen as acts of establishing relative status and superiority, it probably has some connotation with breeding. Procreation and dominance are connected themes in terms of competition and natural selection.

    Young Bitches

    • Female dogs -- bitches -- can only breed at certain times. The period when a bitch is capable of reproduction is known as being on heat or in season. This will first occur when the bitch is between 6 and 12 months old. As a rule of thumb, smaller bitches come into season at the earlier age and larger bitches at the later. The first physical sign of being in season can often be a swelling of the external genital organs. She may also show that she is in season by changes in behavior. For example, she may rub herself against other bitches or lick herself more than she normally does.

    Mature Bitches

    • Even though her body has prepared her for mating, you should try to avoid letting your bitch become pregnant during her first time in season. There are several reasons for this. One is that she is just not really mature enough physically. Another is that her eggs are not yet mature. It is even inadvisable to allow her to mate during the second "in season" period. From the third time onwards is probably the best time. A bitch will normally be one and a half to two years old when this happens.

    Dogs

    • As is the case with many species, the male canine -- dog -- does not have the same intricate functions as the female, when it comes to mating. The desire to breed, as we have noted, is dependent upon her seasons for a bitch; but a dog can breed at any time. He will retain the urges at all times during the period of his life when he is fertile. Male hormone levels in dogs can reach their highest levels before a young dog has mated for the first time. Owners may notice that the urges are developing by behavioral patterns. The dog may start to try and mount objects and make thrusting motions on them or even against the legs of the owner.