Dogs
Jun 6, 2025
If you’ve noticed your female dog acting a bit off, maybe more clingy, restless, or suddenly the centre of attention for every male dog in the neighbourhood, I know it can be confusing and even a bit scary. This phase, often called a female dog’s period cycle, is totally normal.
Just like humans, a female dog’s period cycle is just part of how her body prepares for possible pregnancy. But knowing what to expect and how to care for your female dog during this time can make all the difference.
What Is a Female Dog’s Heat Cycle?
A female dog’s heat cycle is her natural way of getting ready to have puppies. It’s often called the female dog period cycle, though it’s different from what humans go through.
When a female dog is “in heat,” her body is preparing for the chance to mate and become pregnant. You may notice blood spots, a swollen vulva, or changes in her behaviour, like acting more clingy or restless. Some dogs may seem more playful or start lifting their tail to the side when touched near their back end.
When Do Female Dogs Start Their Period Cycle?
Most female dogs go into their first period and are in heat between 6 and 12 months old, though some may start a little earlier or later. Small breeds often begin sooner, or as early as 6 months, while larger breeds may only have their first period cycle when they’ve hit 18 to 24 months old. This is something to keep in mind when choosing the right dog breeds, especially if you’re a first-time owner or want to plan around the timing of their development.
If your puppy is around that age and you’ve started noticing small spots of blood, or she’s suddenly got every male dog in the park sniffing around her, chances are she’s starting her first cycle.
How Often Do Female Dogs Have Their Heat Cycle?
Most female dogs go into heat twice a year, or about every 5 to 11 months. It’s different for every dog, and some might only have their period cycle once a year, especially certain breeds like Basenjis or Tibetan Mastiffs.
If your dog’s still young and is experiencing her first heat, her cycle might be a bit irregular in the beginning. Over time, most dogs settle into a more predictable pattern.
Tracking your female dog’s period cycle can be helpful if you're trying to avoid pregnancy or if you're thinking of spaying her at the right time. You can do so by marking the dates on your calendar when you notice signs of heat, like spotting or a change in mood.
The 4 Stages of the Female Dog in Heat
The female dog's period cycle is made up of four stages, and each one affects your dog in different ways. Knowing what happens in each stage helps you understand her behaviour, how to care for her, and when it’s safe to walk her or consider spaying.
Stage 1: Proestrus
Proestrus is the start of the heat cycle. It’s also when most people first notice something is going on.
The main sign is usually bloody discharge from your dog’s vulva. You might also notice swelling in that area, and she may start licking herself more than usual. She’ll attract male dogs during this time, but she won’t be ready to mate yet.
Behaviourally, some dogs become more clingy or a little grumpy. Others act completely normal. The proestrus stage typically lasts 6 to 11 days, although this duration can vary.
If your dog is experiencing proestrus, it’s best to keep her away from male dogs and provide her with extra comfort and care at home. Puppy pads, dog nappies, or washable bedding can help keep things clean.
Stage 2: Estrus
Estrus is the fertile stage, the time when your dog can become pregnant.
Her discharge may change colour (it often becomes lighter, like pinkish or straw-coloured), and she may now be more welcoming to male dogs. During this stage of a female dog’s period cycle, you might notice her lifting her tail to one side, and this is called “flagging”, which means she’s ready to mate.
Estrus usually lasts around 5 to 9 days, though it can be shorter or longer. This is the time to be very careful if you’re not planning to breed. Keep her on a leash during walks and never leave her alone in the garden.
Stage 3: Diestrus
Diestrus starts when your dog is no longer interested in mating, even if a male still shows interest, she’ll turn him away.
Her body now acts like it’s pregnant, whether she is or not. Hormone levels stay high, and you might notice changes like tiredness, increased appetite, or even nesting behaviour. This can last anywhere from 60 to 90 days, depending on her cycle.
During the diestrus stage of your female dog’s period cycle, things will usually go back to normal at home. Her discharge stops, and any swelling goes down. If you’re not sure whether she’s pregnant or you’re worried about anything unusual, a vet check can give you peace of mind.
Stage 4: Anestrus
Anestrus is the resting stage. It’s the break between heat cycles, which usually lasts around four months.
In this stage of a female dog’s period cycle, hormones are low, and there are no signs of heat. Your dog will act like her usual self, and you don’t need to take any special steps unless you're planning a spay or breeding in the future. This is the time her body resets.
The anestrus stage is often the calmest part of the female dog's cycle, giving you both a breather before the next one.
Signs Your Female Dog Is in Heat
The most common signs that your dog is in heat are physical changes and shifts in behaviour. These signs are part of the natural female dog's period cycle, and they help you know when her body is starting to prepare for possible mating.
Knowing what to look out for can save you a lot of worry and help you respond calmly when things change.
Physical symptoms
The first sign most owners notice is a bloody discharge. It might show up as tiny drops on the floor or in her bed. Some female dogs clean themselves often, so you may not see much, but you’ll likely spot some discharge if you check gently.
Another clear sign of the onset of a female dog’s period cycle is a swollen vulva (the area under her tail). It may look puffy or larger than usual. This occurs due to changes in her hormone levels, which are a regular part of the menstrual cycle and typically not painful.
You don’t need to panic when you see these signs. It’s just her body going through something natural, and with a bit of extra care and cleaning, you’ll both get through it just fine.
Behavioural changes
When your female dog is in heat, you might notice some changes in her behaviour. She may become more clingy than usual, following you around or wanting extra attention. Some dogs seem restless, pacing or whining, while others appear less playful or struggle to settle. These mood shifts are common and usually temporary.
As she moves through the cycle, she might also show signs of mating behaviour. This can include mounting, lifting her tail to the side (known as flagging), or becoming more interested in male dogs. Every dog is different; some may show clear signs, while others may not. Maintaining her calmness and adhering to a regular routine can help her feel more secure during this time.
Caring for Your Dog During Her Period Cycle
When your dog is in heat, the most important thing to do is keep her safe, comfortable, and away from male dogs. This stage of the female dog's period cycle can feel like a lot, especially if it’s your first time dealing with it, but with a few simple steps, you can help her through it with confidence.
Home Care Tips
Hygiene Solutions
One of the first things you’ll notice is the discharge. To manage this, many owners use dog nappies or heat pants. These help keep your home clean and reduce the frequency of washing bedding or mopping the floor.
Make sure she has a clean, cosy space to rest, like a soft bed in a quiet room where she can relax. If you live in a flat or smaller space, washable blankets or puppy pads can be particularly helpful during this time.
Avoiding male dogs
It’s very important to keep your dog away from male dogs while she’s in heat, even if they’re just neighbourhood pets or playmates. Pheromones in this stage can attract male dogs from a great distance, and they can become very determined.
Keeping her calm and comfortable
Some dogs feel out of sorts when they’re in heat. They may be clingy, anxious, or restless.
You can help by maintaining a calm routine, offering extra cuddles if she desires them, and providing her with quiet time when she needs it.
If you live in a busy home, consider creating a safe corner where she won’t be disturbed, somewhere she can feel safe, especially if she’s feeling overwhelmed.
When Is the Best Time to Spay Your Dog
The best time to spay your dog depends on her age, breed, and whether she has already gone through a heat cycle. Many veterinarians recommend spaying before the first heat, which typically occurs around 6 months of age for most dogs. For larger breeds, the timing might be different, so it's best to speak with your vet about the right plan for your dog.
Spaying before the first heat can lower the risk of certain health problems later in life, such as infections or some types of cancer. It also prevents unwanted litters and helps reduce behaviours linked to being in heat. However, spaying during a heat cycle is possible but not always advisable, as the surgery may carry a higher risk due to increased blood flow.
Your vet will look at your dog’s overall health, age, and lifestyle to help decide the safest and most suitable time. If you're unsure, it’s a good idea to ask during a routine check-up. Spaying is a common procedure, and planning it at the right time helps support your dog’s long-term well-being.
Tracking the Female Dog's Period Cycle
Keeping track of your dog’s period cycle can help you understand her routine and notice any changes. Many pet owners use a simple calendar or a mobile app to record the start and end of each heat. Noting signs like swelling, discharge, or behavioural changes can give you a clearer picture of her cycle.
Tracking is also useful when making health decisions, such as the best time to spay or when to speak to your vet about anything unusual. Over time, patterns become easier to spot, and you’ll know what to expect during each stage.
To make things easier, you can use a printable heat cycle tracker or chart. This can be kept on the fridge or in a folder with your dog’s health records.
Final Tips for First-Time Dog Owners
If this is your first time caring for a female dog in heat, it’s normal to feel unsure. But there’s no need to worry, being in heat is a natural part of a dog’s life. With a bit of preparation, you’ll be able to support her through it with confidence.
Make sure you have some basic supplies at home, such as dog nappies, washable bedding, and gentle cleaning products. Create a quiet space where she can rest, and try to maintain a steady routine. Pay attention to changes in her behaviour or physical signs, and keep track of her cycle if possible.
If you ever feel unsure or notice anything unusual, it’s best to speak to your vet. They can help answer questions, check for any concerns, and guide you on the next steps, whether it’s care during her cycle or planning for spaying in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do female dogs stop having heat cycles when they get older?
No, female dogs do not go through menopause like humans. They continue to experience heat cycles throughout their lives, although these cycles may become less regular as they age.
Can you spay a dog while she’s in heat?
Yes, but most vets recommend waiting until her cycle ends. Spaying during heat can carry a higher risk of bleeding, so many prefer to wait about two months after the cycle.
How long does a female dog usually bleed for?
Most dogs bleed for around 7 to 10 days during the first stage of the cycle. The amount can vary, some bleed more, others less.
How do you take care of a female dog on her period?
Keep her clean with dog nappies or washable bedding, and provide her with a quiet, comfortable space to rest. Avoid walks near male dogs and try to stick to her normal routine to keep her calm.
What should you avoid when your dog is in heat?
Don’t let her off-lead outdoors or near unneutered male dogs. Avoid dog parks and keep male dogs in the home separated to prevent unwanted mating.
