What happens to a dog’s first heat?
The first heat of a dog, also known by its estrus cycle or the reproduction cycle of a male dog, is when it experiences its first heat. The female dog will undergo behavioral and physical changes during this period as she prepares to mate. The four stages of the estrus cycle can be divided into proestrus (proestrus), estrus (diestrus), and anestrus.
What happens during proestrus?
Proestrus, the first stage in the estrus cycle, usually lasts between 9 and 15 days. The female dog may experience vaginal discharge, and she may display signs of affection such as licking or seeking attention. Her vulva will expand and she will be more open to male dogs. She will not yet be ready for a mate.
What happens during Estrus?
Estrus, the second stage in the estrus cycle, lasts typically between four and fourteen days. This stage is when the female dog becomes sexually open to male dogs and will actively search for mating opportunities. Her vulva may remain swollen, and she might experience an increase in her vaginal discharge.
What happens during Diestrus?
The third stage of the estrus cycle, diestrus, lasts 60 to 90 days. This stage will see the female dog no longer being receptive for male dogs, and her vulva will return back to normal size. Although she may still experience vaginal discharge, it will be less than in the previous stages. If she has mated in the estrus stage, she will become pregnant at the diestrus stage.
What are the signs of pregnancy?
A female dog that has mated in her estrus stage will usually show signs of pregnancy in the diestrus stage. An increase in appetite, weight gain, and an enlarged abdomen are all signs of pregnancy. You may also notice morning sickness, lethargy and decreased activity.
What happens after a dog gives birth?
The fourth stage of the estrus cycle is when a female dog has given birth. This stage is known as anestrus. Her body will return to pre-pregnancy levels during this stage. Her appetite might increase and she may still experience vaginal discharge.
When will the dog enter her next heat?
The time between heats for female dogs can vary depending upon the breed and the age of the dog. A female dog will usually enter her next heat between 6 and 12 months after she gives birth. She will experience the behavioral and physical changes that are associated with the estrus cycle again during this period. Not all female dogs will experience the exact same changes at each stage of their estrus cycle. Some dogs may experience more severe behavioral and physical changes than others. Not all female dogs will mat during the estrus phase, and some may not even go on to their next heat. Talk to your veterinarian if you have questions about your female dog’s reproductive health or estrus cycle. They can provide more information and answer all your questions.
Estrus
Canine reproduction
What happens after a dog’s first heat? (Youtube)