How does a bitch's heat go? - briefly
A bitch's heat cycle typically begins with the proestrus stage, characterized by swelling of the vulva and attraction of male dogs due to pheromone release. This is followed by the estrus stage, where the female is receptive to mating for about 9-15 days.
How does a bitch's heat go? - in detail
The estrous cycle, or heat, in female dogs is a complex process that involves several stages and hormonal changes. Here is a detailed breakdown of how it occurs:
The estrous cycle typically begins when a bitch reaches sexual maturity, which can vary depending on the breed but usually occurs between 6 to 12 months of age. The entire cycle lasts about 3-4 weeks and consists of four main stages: proestrus, estrus, diestrus, and anestrus.
Proestrus: This is the first stage of the estrous cycle, lasting approximately 9 days on average. During this period, the bitch experiences a rise in estrogen levels, leading to several noticeable changes. The vulva swells, and there may be a slight bloody or straw-colored discharge from the vagina. Male dogs are attracted to the bitch during proestrus due to the hormonal signals she emits. However, the bitch is not yet receptive to mating and may even show aggression towards male dogs.
Estrus: This is the stage when the bitch is most fertile and receptive to mating. Estrus usually begins around day 9-10 of the cycle and can last for 4-13 days, depending on the individual dog. During estrus, the vaginal discharge changes color from red or straw-colored to a lighter pink or clear. The bitch will allow males to mount her, and she may exhibit "flagging" behavior by raising her tail to one side while wagging it slowly.
Diestrus: This stage begins after estrus and lasts for about 60 days. During diestrus, the bitch's body prepares for pregnancy or returns to a non-fertile state. If mating occurred during estrus, the fertilized eggs will implant in the uterus around day 16-18 of the cycle. If no pregnancy occurs, the bitch's hormone levels drop, and the vulva returns to its normal size. Some bitches may experience a false pregnancy during diestrus, exhibiting symptoms such as enlarged mammary glands and nesting behavior.
Anestrus: This is the final stage of the estrous cycle, lasting for about 90-150 days. During anestrus, the bitch's reproductive system is in a state of rest. No heat signs are present, and the bitch is not receptive to mating. After anestrus, the estrous cycle begins again with proestrus.
Understanding the estrous cycle in bitches is crucial for responsible pet ownership and breeding practices. It helps owners monitor their dog's health and plan for possible pregnancies or prevent unwanted litters through spaying or careful management of interactions with male dogs during heat.