Dogs In Heat Home Remedies

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If they haven’t been spayed, female dogs will go into heat. If you’re not sure what “going into heat is” or how to help your dog when she’s in heat, then you’ve come to the right place.

We’ve put together some information about the heat cycle, what happens during this cycle, and how you can help your dog as she goes into heat. Let’s get started!

What Does “In Heat” Mean?

When a female dog reaches maturity, she will eventually “go into heat.” But what does this mean? Being in heat is the term used for when a dog goes through estrus. This is the time when she’s fertile and able to become pregnant with puppies.

An estrus cycle may begin when a female dog is between the age of six to nine months. However, some dog breeds may not go into heat until they’re about eighteen months old. This is most common in larger dog breeds.

A female dog typically goes into heat about twice a year, with each cycle lasting about three weeks. During this time, the female dog will be receptive to mating and could become pregnant. Female dogs are not usually receptive if they’re not in heat.

You may notice the following symptoms if your fur baby goes into heat:

Aggression
Agitation
Lethargy
Bloody discharge
Swelling of the vulva

Most dogs may bleed during the first half of their cycle for about seven to ten days. Larger dogs may bleed more than smaller dogs, but it depends on the dog’s breed. There are also dogs that may not bleed at all or very little.

It’s during this time that a female dog is receptive to a male dog’s intention to mate. But what does this mean? You may notice your lady dog acting in these ways if she’s receptive:

Seeking out male dogs
Be very friendly with other dogs, especially males
Turn her tail to the side
Appear nervous or agitated
Mounting behavior

Most females are not in pain during their cycle, even if they bleed. However, it can happen that a dog may have pain or feel uncomfortable during this time. If your dog seems uncomfortable during her heat cycle, then it’s a good idea to have her checked by the vet.

The good news is that your dog’s cycles will become fewer and farther between as she gets older. But it’s important to understand that she can go into heat her entire life. Even if she’s a senior dog, she will go into heat and could become pregnant.

How to Prevent Heat Cycles

One of the most effective methods to prevent heat cycles in female dogs is to have them spayed (also called being “fixed”). This is usually recommended when a female dog is young if the pet parents don’t plan on breeding her.

When a female dog is spayed, her reproductive organs are removed. After she’s recovered from the surgery, your fur baby won’t have to deal with another estrus cycle again for the rest of her life.

There are also nonsurgical methods to prevent the estrus cycle. For instance, a medication called megestrol acetate can delay or prevent heat cycles. And there are other veterinary medications that can permanently suppress heat cycles.

Megestrol acetate is effective; however, there are some side effects to be aware of:

Weight gain
Behavioral changes
Breast tumors
Adrenal gland suppression

Because the side effects can be serious, dogs on this medication must be monitored closely. The vet will want to check your dog’s weight, blood sugar levels, living function, and reproductive health at regular intervals. Tests can also be done to see how well the medication is working.

In most cases, spaying is the best method to stop heat cycles for dogs who are healthy. In addition, spaying ensures your canine companion won’t become pregnant with unwanted puppies, and it may also prevent serious diseases of the reproductive tract.

However, if you don’t want your fur baby treated for estrus, what can you do to help her during this time?

Home Remedies for a Female Dog in Heat

Here are some home remedies that may help your dog when she’s in heat!

1. Give Her Lots of Attention

Some dogs become more affectionate when they’re in heat. However, there are also dogs that may become more irritated and even aggressive.

If your fur baby is dealing with rollercoaster emotions, then it can help to pay her more attention. Give her snuggles and extra love at this time. It can really help take her mind off her raging hormones.

2. Spend Time with Your Dog

As you’re giving her more attention, why not spend more time with her, too? This is a great way to keep her company. Playing games indoors, providing her puzzle toys, and more can keep her busy. She may be distracted by keeping her mind and body busy and occupied.

When you watch TV, consider letting her snuggle with you and your family. Make her comfortable and give her plenty of attention.