| As usual my new puppy is giving me something to write about. This
time it is her first heat. By now a new dog owner should have made the decision
to breed their female dog or not. Breeding is not a profitable endeavor, therefore
it should be done only to propagate a breed of dog. Having your dog go
through the heat cycle is a messy stressful 3 week or more period. A dog usually
experiences a heat cycle twice a year after she reaches 6 months of age. In larger
dogs the cycle may be every 9-12 months. In some breeds like Basenji's it may
only be once a year. There are four stages to a heat cycle. The first is
called Proesterus. The vulva swells and there is a bloody discharge. The bitch
secretes pheromones which attract the males. This period lasts about 9 days and
the dog will not allow a male to mount her. It has been recommended to me that
even though some dogs may wash themselves frequently, to protect my carpet, clothes,
and furniture, it would be wise to purchase protective panties and use mini-pads.
The second stage is called Estrus. The female still has a discharge, but now she
will allow a male to mount her. This stage lasts another 9 -12 days. The third
stage is called the Luteal stage. It lasts 2-3 months whether or not the dog is
pregnant. Some dogs who are not pregnant will experience a false pregnancy. Their
mammary glands swell and will secrete fluid. They get nesting instincts and become
possessive of their nesting or bedding area. The last stage is the Anestrus cycle.
It is a stage of reduced hormonal or ovarian activity. It's the calm before the
next heat. During this period, if you are not planning on breeding, you should
again consider spaying your dog. Always consult your veterinarian and your breeder
for a course of action that is best for you and your dog. -------------------------------------------------
// ------------------------------------------------ Reprinted with permission
by Terrie Simpson | 
