How long does a dog's heat last in Spitz? - briefly
The duration of a female Japanese Spitz's heat cycle typically lasts about 3 weeks. However, it can vary slightly depending on individual factors such as age and overall health.
How long does a dog's heat last in Spitz? - in detail
The duration of a female Spitz's heat cycle can vary, but on average, it typically lasts between 21 and 30 days, with some variations depending on the specific breed within the Spitz family. This period is divided into four distinct stages: proestrus, estrus, diestrus, and anestrus.
During proestrus, which usually lasts about 9 days, the female dog experiences swelling of the vulva and may exhibit signs such as increased urination or changes in behavior. There is no vaginal discharge during this stage, making it less noticeable to owners.
The second stage, estrus (also known as the "heat" phase), begins when the female dog starts exhibiting a bloody or straw-colored discharge from her vulva. This stage can last anywhere from 9 to 15 days and is characterized by increased receptivity to male dogs. It's important for owners to monitor their female Spitz closely during this period to prevent unwanted pregnancies.
Following estrus, the dog enters the diestrus phase, which lasts about 60 to 90 days. During diestrus, the vulva returns to its normal size, and any discharge stops. If the female Spitz is pregnant, she will remain in this stage throughout her pregnancy and possibly into lactation.
The final stage of the heat cycle is anestrus, a period of sexual inactivity that can last from 4 to 12 months. During anestrus, the female dog's reproductive system rests before the next heat cycle begins. It's crucial for owners to be aware of these stages and monitor their dogs closely, as proper care and management during each phase can help ensure the health and well-being of both the female Spitz and any potential offspring.