Knowing the signs of heat is important, whether you plan to breed your dog or want to have her spayed prior to her first heat cycle. The four phases of the canine reproductive process are proestrus (before estrus), diestrus (after estrus), and anestrus. When a dog is “in heat,” the proestrus and the estrus occur.
Proestrus is characterized by swelling in the dog’s vulva, and a bloody discharge. A wrinkled vulva and a brownish discharge are the main physical signs of estrus.
What happens during proestrus and estrus?
Estrus and proestrus are signs that your female dog is preparing her body for possible pregnancy and breeding. The majority of dogs go into heat every six months, but there are some breed and size variations. The first heat for female puppies is usually around 6 months but can occur anywhere from 4 to 24 months. In addition to the physical changes already described, many dogs also undergo behavioral changes when they are in proestrus or estrus.
Proestrus
The first phase of a dog’s heat cycle is proestrus. You may notice that your dog is more nervous or tired than usual in the days before proestrus. She might also be eating less. Proestrus begins when the vulva of your dog swells and bloody discharge starts. You may notice that male dogs are showing an interest in females around this time. As she continues to progress into her proestrus, you will likely notice that she is first aggressive towards male dogs and then becomes indifferent. Proestrus can last anywhere between 3-17 days.
Estrus
Estrus is a stage in the cycle where your female is usually ready to reproduce. As your dog enters estrus, you will notice her vulva becoming smaller, softer, and wrinkled. Her discharge will be less bloody. You may observe that her behavior has changed. She is no longer aggressive toward male dogs but is more interested in them. Flagging is a common behavior where she will carry her tail to one side or up. Estrus can last anywhere from 3-18 days, but the average is 9 days.
What about the other phases of the Reproductive Cycle?
Diestrus and Anestrus are the two last phases of a canine’s reproductive cycle.
Diestrus usually occurs 2 months after estrus. Your dog’s hormonal levels will be changing during this phase. Your dog will not likely show any physical changes unless she is pregnant.
Anestrus is usually the last phase of the cycle. It can last up to 4 months but it may be longer. Your dog may not show any signs, but her body will be preparing to start the next proestrus.
Your dog is in the heat: What now?
You know what the physical signs are of estrus and proestrus, and you have noticed these in your dog. What should you do if your dog is showing signs of proestrus or estrus?
You should also make sure that no male dogs who are not neutered can be near your dog during her estrus. Include any male dogs who are related to your dog.
Only let your female out in a fenced-in area. When she is outside, you will need to supervise. You will still need to supervise her when she’s outside.
Contact your veterinarian to find out what options you have to prevent pregnancy if a male dog manages to get close to your female, despite all your efforts.
The bloody discharge from proestrus or estrus can be a real mess. You can keep your dog in an easy-to-clean room or crate to contain the mess. You can have your dog wear dog diapers during proestrus or estrus if she tolerates them. Dog wipes are also useful for keeping your dog clean.
Before you begin the breeding process, do thorough research on all aspects of responsible dog breeding. Responsible dog breeding can be a lengthy and expensive process. The overpopulation of pets is a major concern. Make sure that you breed your dog properly and for the right reasons.
You don’t want to deal with a dog in heat: What now?
Spaying your dog is a great idea if you do not want to breed it and don’t like the idea of dealing with a dog that’s in heat. It’s also more convenient.
The chances of your dog developing mammary cancer (breast cancer) are almost eliminated if you spay her before she goes into heat. It is best to avoid this type of cancer as it can be painful and difficult to treat.
Pyometra is a serious infection that can develop in the uterus of unspayed females. Pyometra is a serious infection that can cause your dog to become very sick. If not treated, it will eventually kill her. This life-threatening disease can be prevented by spaying your dog.
Pet overpopulation, as we have already discussed, is a major problem in many countries. You can ensure that your dog won’t contribute to this problem by spaying her. Spaying your dog not only benefits her and is convenient for you, but also helps to make a positive difference in the lives of homeless dogs.
Your veterinarian can provide you with more information about the procedure and what you can expect during your dog’s recovery.
What are the symptoms of Proestrus in a dog?
Proestrus: The start of the heating phase, when your dog’s body prepares to mate. A swollen vulva, blood-tinged discharge, excessive licking of the vaginal area, clinging behavior, and hostility against male canines are all symptoms of this stage. Your dog’s tail may also be held close to her bod
What are the symptoms of Proestrus?
Proestrus is distinguished by fast follicular growth as well as an increase in estrogen. These modifications cause vulva enlargement, reproductive tract congestion, and bloody vaginal discharge.
What are the four symptoms of estrus or heat?
Raising the tail, frequent urine, “winking” or eversion of the vulva, shrieking, and posturing, which comprises expanding the rear legs while rounding the hindquarters, are all signs of estrus.
How long do dogs go through Proestrus and Estrus?
The female’s heat cycle lasts 18 to 21 days. The initial stage is known as proestrus. It starts with modest vulva swelling and a bloody discharge. This usually lasts around 9 days, but it might vary by 2 or 3 days.
Do dogs bleed when they are in Proestrus?
Proestrus: Heat usually lasts between 7 and 10 days. Around this period, your dog’s vulva begins to swell and bleed. She will begin to attract male canines, but she is not yet ready to mate.
What are the typical actions of a female dog in her first heat?
Lower energy levels, more aggressive behavior, changes in leg-raising when peeing, urinating more frequently than normal, and even running away from home are all indicators of a female dog going into heat. Male dogs, on the other hand, do not go through heat cycles.
What occurs during the Proestrus stage?
The CL regresses (progesterone decreases) during proestrus, and a preovulatory follicle enters its final growth phase (estradiol increases). During estrus, ovulation normally occurs (cows ovulate during metestrus). The follicular phase is made up of proestrus and estrus.
What are the four phases of the estrous cycle?
The stages of the oestrus cycle. The oestrus cycle is divided into four stages: pro-oestrus, oestrus, metoestrus, and dioestrus.
Can a dog become pregnant when in Proestrus?
It is vital to note, however, that your female might become pregnant up to four weeks before the conclusion of her season. The vulva should revert to normal after the estrus stage; at this point, she is no longer fertile and can be mixed with intact male canines.
What’s the distinction between Proestrus and Estrus?
Menstrual and estrous cycles Proestrus is the initial stage of the cycle, and it is characterized by significant changes in the reproductive system, notably uterine expansion, and endometrial proliferation. This is followed by the process’s culmination, estrus, at which point ovulation normally occurs.