Dogs in heat
Female dogs are "in heat" when they have entered the fertile part of their reproductive cycle. A heat, on average, lasts for 3 weeks and a dog will usually go into heat every 6 to 8 months.
Most breeds have their first heat at about 6 months old but it may be earlier or later.
A heat can usually be identified when there is some bleeding from the vagina, a swollen vulva or increased urination. Female dogs do not produce very much blood, and in a small dog you may not even notice the bleeding.
Unwanted attention
The first thing you will notice if you have a bitch in heat is that she will attract un-castrated male dogs within a very large radius. Her behaviour will change too, so while she normally wouldn't let males mount her, she almost definitely will while in heat.
Additionally, male dogs will go to surprising lengths to get to a female in heat. While your bitch is in heat it's inadvisable to leave her unsupervised outside, and you'll need to keep her on the lead at all times while on walks. In general, other pet owners you encounter will be able to control their dogs, but the scent of a female in heat can cause aggressive behaviour in some dogs.
Tasty Tips
Bleeding
The second concern is bleeding. If your dog is producing enough blood to cause a mess you may want to restrict her to easy-to-clean, un-carpeted floors. Just leaving her outside is a bad idea unless you want her to have male visitors (and potentially puppies).
Unless you intend breeding, it is best to have her spayed. Spaying will prevent her from going into heat.
There is some debate about when it is best to spay your bitch. Some veterinarians will advise to let a dog have one heat while others will spay as early as 6 months. Ask your vet which course of action they think is right for your dog.
Related products
Adult Perfect Digestion Chicken, Barley & Whole Oats Recipe Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Adult Perfect Weight & Joint Support Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
This weight management and mobility support dog food was created with Hill’s unique understanding of the biology of overweight dogs.
Hill's Science Diet Adult Healthy Mobility Large Breed Chicken Meal, Barley & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
Advanced nutrition shown to support joint health and improve mobility
Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Large Breed
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Large Breed dry dog food is gentle on stomachs while nourishing skin & promoting a lustrous coat. In a delicious large bite size for large breed dogs.
Related articles
The Advantages of Wet Dog Food
Learn how today's wet dog food blends have gotten a face lift, and how you'll provide your dog the nutrition he needs in the form he loves.
What to Feed Your Pregnant or Nursing Dog
Learn what you can feed your pregnant or nursing dog to keep her and her new pups healthy.
What to Look For in Food for a Mature Dog
Learn about choosing the right dog food to help ensure your mature older dog will receive the correct balance of nutrition.
Special Diet Needs for Large & Giant-Breed Puppies
Large breeds of dogs have different nutritional needs than smaller breeds. Learn more about the specific needs of large and giant breeds.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.