Periods are a topic that many people don’t like to talk about, even when it comes to our furry friends. Dogs are an integral part of our lives and understanding their biology is important for their health and wellbeing. One of the biological topics that many dog owners have questions about is whether or not dogs bleed on their period. This blog post will address this question and provide information about canine reproductive health.
The female reproductive cycle of a dog is similar to that of a human in many ways, however there are some unique differences that pet owners should be aware of. A female dog typically goes through two cycles each year, known as a ‘heat cycle’. During these cycles, changes in hormone levels can cause physical changes in the dog such as swollen vulva, increased urination, and occasional bleeding. The amount of bleeding will vary between individuals, but it is important to understand the signs of a healthy cycle and to recognize any abnormalities that may indicate a
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If you’re considering getting a female dog, you might be curious about whether they have periods, or if you already have a female dog but she isn’t spayed, you might be wondering why she is bleeding. Once they reach maturity, female dogs do experience a regular cycle and bleed if they are not spayed. The experience might seem scary (and messy) at first, but the more you comprehend it, the more you’ll be able to support your dog.
A puppy can experience her first heat as early as 6 months old, though the exact timing depends on the breed and size of the dog. She will continue to go into heat approximately every six months well into her senior years if she is not spayed.
A dog’s heat cycle has four stages . The first three can last up to 30 days and include the following periods:
When a female dog is in heat (called estrus), she has a bloody discharge from her vulva—similar to a human period or menstruation. But that’s where the similarities end. While humans experience a menstrual cycle every 28 days on average, dogs’ estrous cycle is six months or more.
The period of time between the end of one estrous cycle and the start of the next is considered the fourth stage.
How do I treat my dog’s estrus cycle?
If you have a female dog who is not spayed and do not intend to use her in a respectable breeding program, spaying her will stop her from going through her estrous cycle and any unfavorable symptoms that come along with heat cycles, such as bloody vaginal discharge. In addition, spaying will prevent unwanted puppies. It is not advised to have puppies outside of a breeding program due to the abundance of dogs in strays and shelters.
Your veterinarian can spay your pet by performing an ovariectomy, which involves removing the ovaries, or an ovariohysterectomy, which involves removing the ovaries, uterus, and cervix. Both procedures will prevent unwanted pregnancy and heat cycles.
Visit our guides on Dog Ovariohysterectomy and Dog Ovariectomy to learn more about these spay procedures.
FAQ
Do dogs have periods and bleed?
If you live with a female dog who isn’t spayed, you might be curious as to why she is bleeding, especially if you’re thinking about adopting a female dog. Once they reach maturity, female dogs do experience a regular cycle and bleed if they are not spayed.
Do dogs get periods every month?
The expression “time of the month” in reference to our canine companions is inaccurate. Female dogs typically only cycle once or twice a year rather than every month. The average is about every seven months.
What do you do when your dog gets her period?
- Set aside some extra time for lots of cuddles during this period because puppies often become very snuggly.
- Offer her a chewable toy that is secure for her to brush up against.
- Never chastise your dog if she makes a bloody mess; instead, kindly reassure her as you clean it up.
How often do female dogs bleed?
Some dogs may require 18 to 24 months to establish a regular cycle. Small dogs typically experience more heat cycles, up to three or four times annually. Large breeds such as Great Danes and St. Bernard might only go into heat once a year.