Shih Tzus are small, companion dogs that are native to China. They are known for their long, silky hair and their playful personalities. Shih Tzus typically reach sexual maturity between 6 and 9 months of age, although some may mature earlier or later.
Estrous Cycle
The estrous cycle is the reproductive cycle of female dogs. It is divided into four stages:
1. Proestrus: This is the first stage of the estrous cycle and it typically lasts for 3-9 days. During proestrus, the female dog's body begins to prepare for ovulation. Her vulva will swell and she may experience some vaginal discharge.
2. Estrus: This is the second stage of the estrous cycle and it typically lasts for 7-14 days. During estrus, the female dog is fertile and she is most likely to conceive if she mates with a male dog. Her vulva will be swollen and she will discharge a bloody or straw-colored fluid.
3. Diestrus: This is the third stage of the estrous cycle and it typically lasts for 60-90 days. During diestrus, the female dog's body begins to return to normal. Her vulva will shrink and she will no longer discharge any fluid.
4. Anestrus: This is the fourth and final stage of the estrous cycle. It typically lasts for 4-6 months. During anestrus, the female dog is not fertile.
Mating
When a female Shih Tzu is in estrus, she will attract male dogs by releasing pheromones. Male dogs will mount the female dog and insert their penises into her vagina. The male dog will ejaculate and the sperm will travel through the female dog's cervix and into her uterus.
Pregnancy
The gestation period for Shih Tzus is typically 58-63 days. During pregnancy, the female dog's body will change to accommodate the growing puppies. Her abdomen will enlarge, her breasts will swell, and she may experience weight gain.
Whelping
Whelping is the process of giving birth. Shih Tzus typically give birth to 2-5 puppies at a time. The puppies will be born headfirst and the female dog will lick them clean. The puppies will then begin to nurse.
Postpartum Care
After whelping, the female Shih Tzu will need to rest and recover. She will need to be provided with plenty of food and water. She should also be kept in a warm, quiet environment. The puppies will need to be monitored closely to ensure that they are healthy.
Spaying and Neutering
Spaying and neutering are surgical procedures that sterilize male and female dogs, respectively. Spaying and neutering can help to prevent unwanted pregnancies and can also reduce the risk of certain health problems, such as testicular cancer and ovarian cancer.
If you do not plan to breed your Shih Tzu, it is important to have him or her spayed or neutered.