* What happens: During estrus, a female dog's body undergoes hormonal changes that prepare her for mating. This includes a physical change in her vulva (the external opening of her reproductive tract), which becomes swollen and may discharge a bloody fluid.
* Duration: A typical estrus cycle lasts around 2-3 weeks, but it can vary from dog to dog.
* Stages: Estrus is divided into several stages:
* Proestrus: This is the first stage, lasting about 7-10 days. The dog will show signs of swelling in the vulva and a bloody discharge. She may be more affectionate and playful but is not yet receptive to mating.
* Estrus: This is the fertile stage, typically lasting around 5-9 days. The bloody discharge becomes lighter and pinker, and the dog will become receptive to mating. She may actively seek out male dogs.
* Diestrus: This stage follows estrus and lasts about 60-90 days. The vulva returns to its normal size, and the discharge stops. The dog is no longer receptive to mating and may become more aggressive.
* Anestrus: This is the resting period, which lasts for the rest of the year. The dog is not fertile during this time.
Importance of understanding heat:
* Unwanted pregnancy: If a female dog is not spayed, she can become pregnant during estrus. This is important to be aware of, especially if you don't want your dog to have puppies.
* Behavior changes: During heat, a female dog may display changes in behavior, such as increased affection, restlessness, and even aggression.
* Potential health issues: If a dog is not spayed, she is at risk for certain health problems, such as uterine infections and tumors.
Spay vs. Intact:
* Spay: A spay is a surgical procedure that removes the dog's ovaries and uterus, preventing her from going into heat and becoming pregnant.
* Intact: A dog that is not spayed is called "intact."
If you have a female dog, it's important to talk to your veterinarian about the best options for her, including whether or not to spay her.