Do Female Dogs Bleed After Mating? Everything You Need to Know

Have you ever wondered if female dogs bleed after mating? As a dog owner it’s natural to be concerned when you notice any unusual discharge or bleeding from your furry friend. Today I’m diving deep into this topic to give you all the information you need to understand what’s normal and when you should be concerned.

What Causes Bleeding in Female Dogs After Mating?

Female dogs may indeed experience some bleeding after mating, but it’s not the same for all dogs. There are several reasons why this might happen

Normal Bleeding During Heat Cycle

First, let’s clarify something important – female dogs naturally bleed during their heat cycle (estrus), which typically lasts around 2-3 weeks This bleeding occurs before mating and is part of the normal reproductive cycle

During a dog’s heat cycle:

• The first sign is usually a swollen vulva and bloody discharge
• This discharge may start heavy and red, then become more watery and straw-colored
• This is the time when the female dog is fertile and receptive to mating

Post-Mating Bleeding

After mating, some female dogs might experience minor bleeding due to:

1. Vaginal Tissue Irritation: The physical act of mating can cause minor tears or irritation to the vaginal tissue, resulting in some spotting or light bleeding.

2. Continuation of Heat Cycle: Sometimes what appears to be post-mating bleeding is actually just the continuation of the normal heat cycle bleeding.

3. Vaginal Trauma: In some cases, particularly with inexperienced dogs or rough mating, there may be more significant trauma to the vaginal tissues.

As the Kennel Club explains, “Some dogs may continue to bleed throughout their season, so there may be some bloody discharge during or after mating. So long as the bleeding isn’t excessive or continuous, and your dog is behaving normally, then there’s no reason to be concerned.”

Is Post-Mating Bleeding Normal?

The short answer is: it can be normal, but it depends on several factors.

According to dog breeding experts, minor spotting or light bleeding for 1-2 days after mating is generally considered normal and not a cause for concern. However, the amount and duration of bleeding can vary based on:

• The dog’s breed
• Individual physiology
• Whether it’s her first time mating
• The intensity of the mating

Some breeds seem more prone to post-mating bleeding than others. For example, smaller breeds like Chihuahuas might experience more noticeable bleeding compared to larger breeds like Labradors or Huskies.

When Should You Be Concerned?

While some bleeding might be normal, there are definitely situations where you should contact your vet immediately:

• Heavy bleeding that soaks through bedding or continues for more than 2-3 days
• Foul-smelling discharge accompanying the blood
• Signs of pain or discomfort such as whining, reluctance to move, or licking the genital area excessively
• Lethargy, fever, or loss of appetite
• Difficulty urinating

These symptoms could indicate more serious issues such as:

Pyometra

This is a severe uterine infection that can occur after mating when bacteria enter the uterus through an open cervix. It’s a potentially life-threatening condition that requires immediate veterinary attention.

Metritis

An inflammation of the uterine lining that can cause abnormal bleeding and discharge. It’s often seen in dogs who have had difficult pregnancies or deliveries.

Vaginitis

An inflammation of the vagina that can cause bleeding, discomfort, and abnormal discharge.

What To Do If Your Dog Is Bleeding After Mating

If you notice your female dog bleeding after mating, here are some steps to take:

1. Monitor the bleeding: Note the amount, color, and duration.

2. Watch for other symptoms: Check for fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, or signs of pain.

3. Use doggy diapers: To keep your home clean and monitor the amount of bleeding.

4. Contact your veterinarian: If the bleeding is heavy, lasts more than 2-3 days, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms.

5. Keep your dog calm and comfortable: Provide a quiet, clean area for her to rest.

Preventing Complications During Dog Mating

To minimize the risk of bleeding and other complications during mating:

• Wait until your dog is fully mature before breeding (usually after at least one year of age)
• Ensure both dogs are healthy and have had appropriate health screenings
• Consider matching an experienced dog with an inexperienced one for the first mating
• Provide a calm, quiet environment for mating
• Allow dogs to mate naturally without forcing or rushing them
• Keep both dogs calm during the “tie” (when dogs are locked together after mating)

Myth vs. Reality: Common Misconceptions About Dog Mating

There are several myths about dog mating and bleeding that need to be addressed:

Myth 1: All female dogs bleed heavily after mating

Reality: Most female dogs experience little to no bleeding after mating. When bleeding does occur, it’s typically light and brief.

Myth 2: Bleeding after mating always indicates a problem

Reality: Minor bleeding can be normal due to vaginal irritation during mating.

Myth 3: A dog that bleeds after mating can’t get pregnant

Reality: Bleeding after mating doesn’t necessarily affect fertility or prevent pregnancy.

Expert Opinions

Veterinary experts generally agree that while some minor bleeding can be normal after mating, anything excessive or prolonged warrants a checkup.

As one veterinary expert states, “Dogs typically do not bleed after mating. However, there are some rare cases where female dogs may experience slight bleeding due to the physical contact during mating. This is normal and should not be a cause for concern unless it persists or is accompanied by other symptoms such as fever or lethargy.”

Female dogs may experience some bleeding after mating, but it’s usually minimal and short-lived. Heavy or prolonged bleeding, especially when accompanied by other symptoms, should be evaluated by a veterinarian promptly.

Remember that each dog is unique, and what’s normal for one may not be for another. If you’re breeding your dog or planning to do so, it’s always best to work closely with a veterinarian who can provide guidance specific to your dog’s needs and help ensure a safe and successful breeding experience.

Have you ever noticed bleeding in your female dog after mating? What was your experience like? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!

---

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional veterinary advice. Always consult with a qualified veterinarian if you have concerns about your dog’s health.

You cannot definitively know if your female dog has mated unless she becomes pregnant, which can only be confirmed by a veterinary ultrasound around 25-30 days post-mating or x-rays after 45 days.

Yes, a female dog can be pregnant and continue to have vaginal bleeding, especially during her heat cycle when it’s normal for discharge to occur. However, if the bleeding is new, excessive, or occurs at an unusual time after being mated, it could indicate a complication like miscarriage, reabsorption of fetuses, or a separate health issue.

A female dog typically allows a male to mount her during the fertile period of her estrus cycle, which is often around days 9-14, though this can vary and last for about 7-9 days or even longer.