How to know if a dog has come out of heat or not? - briefly
To determine if your dog has come out of heat, observe her behavior and physical changes. If she stops attracting male dogs, shows decreased interest in them, and her vulva returns to its normal size without discharge or swelling, it indicates that the heat cycle has ended.
How to know if a dog has come out of heat or not? - in detail
To determine whether a dog has come out of heat, several signs can be observed. The estrous cycle in dogs typically lasts around three weeks and consists of four stages: proestrus, estrus, diestrus, and anestrus. Recognizing these stages is crucial for understanding when a dog has exited the heat period.
During proestrus, the initial stage of the heat cycle, the dog may exhibit behavioral changes such as increased attention from males and swelling of the vulva. However, she will not allow mating during this phase. As the cycle progresses into estrus, the dog becomes receptive to males and allows mating. This is the fertile period where breeding should occur if planned.
After estrus, the dog enters diestrus, which lasts about two months. During this stage, the vulva returns to its normal size, and any discharge or bleeding stops. The dog will no longer show interest in males, and her behavior should return to normal. It is important to note that during diestrus, the dog may experience a false pregnancy, exhibiting symptoms such as nesting behavior, increased appetite, and changes in mammary glands.
Finally, the cycle concludes with anestrus, a period of sexual inactivity lasting around four to five months. During this stage, the dog's reproductive system is at rest, and there are no visible signs of heat. Once the next estrous cycle begins, proestrus will start again, signaling the onset of a new heat period.
To confirm that a dog has indeed come out of heat, owners can monitor the following indicators:
- Vulva Appearance: The vulva should return to its normal size and appearance, without any swelling or discharge.
- Behavioral Changes: The dog's behavior should revert to normal, with no increased attention towards males or nesting behaviors if she is not pregnant.
- Discharge: Any vaginal discharge or bleeding that was present during heat should cease.
- Appetite and Temperament: A return to a regular appetite and stable temperament can also indicate the end of the heat cycle.
If any of these signs persist beyond the typical duration of the estrous cycle, it is advisable to consult with a veterinarian to rule out any potential health issues. Regular monitoring and understanding of the dog's reproductive cycle are essential for ensuring her well-being and preventing unwanted pregnancies.