Get

In Your Inbox

Dogster is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more.

Do Dogs Get Periods? Vet-Approved Canine Heat Explained

French Bulldog dog wearing fabric period diaper pants for protection

As the owner of a female dog, the question of whether they experience a similar reproductive cycle to humans is valid. While it can be said that yes, female dogs clearly have a cycle in order to reproduce, they also have times in which they will have a bloody discharge. However, the female cycle in the bitch is different from that of female humans. In the canine world, the menstrual cycle is referred to as the estrous cycle, and periods of bleeding occur during the proestrus phase, or the beginning of coming into heat. Let’s look into this matter further and impart some valuable insights for you.

dogster face divider

Do Female Dogs Get Periods?

As answered above, female dogs do not have menstrual periods like human women. However, they do go through a reproductive cycle. This is the time when a female is preparing for potential mating and reproduction to produce offspring.

Bitches reach puberty usually at around 6 months old, but this can be anywhere from 5 to 24 months, as it depends on factors such as size and breed type. Large breeds tend to reach puberty later than smaller breeds.

Typically, dogs will have a cycle every 6 to 10 months (twice a year), depending on their breed. A certain portion of this cycle involves bleeding and spotting, as well as experiencing a series of other physical and behavioral changes. We’ll discuss this more later.

What Are the Stages of a Dog’s Heat Cycle?

Dog Heat Cycle
You are free to use this image but we do require you to link back to Dogster.com for credit

The four stages of the canine heat cycle are:

  • Proestrus: Proestrus is the phase in which you will see bloody discharge due to the presence of high amounts of estrogen. You may also notice swelling of the vulva and she may show an interest in males but is not yet ready to breed. Proestrus lasts approx. 9 days.
  • Estrus: As a pup moves into estrus, levels of estrogen drop and progesterone rises. This sparks a surge in luteinizing hormone to spur her into being receptive to a male. The bloody discharge typically turns a yellowish color, but there may be variation between dogs. A female will remain in estrus, and therefore, receptive to mating for 10 – 14 days, but it can be as short as one day or as long as 20.
  • Diestrus:  Diestrus starts once a female stops showing signs of receptivity. Progesterone will remain high whether or not she is pregnant, and then slowly start to decline towards the end of two months.
  • Anestrus: Anestrus follows diestrus or having a litter. Progesterone will be low while the uterus repairs and prepares for proestrus again. This stage can last four months or longer.

Signs Your Dog Is in Heat

Recognizing the signs of your dog’s heat cycle is essential whether or not you plan to breed them. If you’re not planning to breed, you will want to keep your dog away from others when they start showing these signs. If you are looking to spay, you will want to wait until all signs of heat are gone.

They may not exhibit all these signs, but there will often be several:
  • Swelling of the vulva
  • The vulva may appear red or pinkish in color
  • Increased urination but in smaller amounts
  • A bloody discharge from the vulva (can range from light pink to dark red, and amounts and duration of the discharge can vary)
  • Heightened friendliness toward male dogs
  • May actively seek out potential mates
  • Restlessness, changes in appetite, or increased aggression toward other female dogs

If you’re concerned about your pet’s well-being, we recommend consulting a veterinarian.

Did you know you can talk to a vet online? Click on the image or button below to schedule a call: PangoVet_Mention-in-Content Savings V1


How Long Do Dog Periods Last?

Most female dogs will have a bloody discharge for 7-10 days. They will then be receptive to males for about a week in most cases, but can range from one day to nearly three weeks. The duration of your dog being in heat is an individual thing, and your female may be on either side of these ranges and still be considered completely normal.

It’s important to keep track of your dog’s heat cycles and note any changes in their behavior or physical appearance. This can help you anticipate future cycles and alert you to any problems that you may have to ask your veterinarian about.

female dog lie in a diaper and wags its tail
Image Credit: moonmovie, Shutterstock

How to Look After Your Dog in Heat

Managing your pooch while they are in heat requires some extra attention and care to ensure well-being and prevent unwanted pregnancies. Here are a few tips you can use during this time, or check in with your veterinarian, as they will be happy to advise on this further.

  • Keep your dog indoors with, ideally, access to a secure garden/yard to prevent mating and unwanted pregnancies. If not, ensure all time spent outdoors is supervised.
  • Use protective garments, such as diapers, to help prevent the discharge from soiling and staining your furniture and carpets. These items are widely available and can sometimes be washed and reused to save money.
  • Avoid off-leash walks. This will help to stop her from running off to find a mate.
  • Provide extra comfort and attention, as they may experience discomfort and anxiety. Providing a comfortable and quiet space may help to alleviate this and offer rest and peace of mind. Be aware they can also show aggression, though.
  • Keep their environment clean. Regularly clean bedding and living areas to prevent any odors building up that may attract male dogs
  • Maintaining a regular grooming routine is key to keeping your female dog clean and comfortable during her heat cycle. Pay special attention to her genital area and clean it gently with warm water to prevent any irritation or infections. Make sure to brush out any tangles in the fur as well.
  • Keep male dogs away. If you have unneutered male dogs in your household, it’s important to keep them separated from your female dog during her heat cycle. Male dogs can become very agitated and may become aggressive toward each other when competing for the female’s attention.
  • Consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns or questions about managing your dog’s cycles, and also consider spaying your dog if you do not intend to breed them. Again, your vet can advise on this and the best time to arrange it.
vet holding a puppy
Image Credit: Friends Stock, Shutterstock

dogster face divider

Conclusion

A dog’s reproductive cycle is very different from humans. They do experience a time with bloody discharge, but this time is different from what is referred to as a period in women. Rather, it is the time right before they become receptive to mating.

If you have a female dog, understanding the canine heat cycle (and your own dog’s unique one) is crucial so as to maintain their care, minimize unwanted pregnancies, and prevent any health issues from occurring.

By recognizing the signs of a dog in heat, understanding the duration of the heat cycles, and implementing the tips and information outlined here, you are well on your way to providing top-notch care for your dog during these testy times!

See also:


Featured Image Credit: Firn, Shutterstock

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate (you can leave written feedback after clicking submit)

Help us improve Dogster for pet parents!

Your feedback really matters.

What did you like about this post? Also how can we improve it?

Join the conversation

Leave a Reply

You’re very welcome to leave a comment or question. Please know that all comments must meet our community guidelines, and your email address will NOT be published. Let’s have a positive and constructive conversation.

Talk With A Vet Online

Peace of mind,
anywhere, anytime

Affordable vet advice

How Long Will a Dachshund Stay in Heat? Vet-Verified Signs & Facts

Understanding the canine heat cycle can be tricky, especially when it differs depending on various factors. One thing heat cycles have in common...

miniature chocolate dachshund standing on rock

Behavioral Changes During Proestrus and Estrus in Dogs: Vet-Approved Facts

Female dogs typically go through a heat cycle twice a year, during which time, they can mate and conceive babies. The first part...

Dog Couple in the field

When Do Border Collies Go into Heat? Vet-Approved Facts & Tips

Border Collies are fun, loving dogs, but this is not your average dog breed. They require a great deal of attention, care, and...

sad and worried border collie dog lying on a wood floor

When Do Golden Retrievers First Go into Heat? Vet Approved Facts & FAQ

A dog is capable of becoming pregnant when they “go into heat.” However, it might surprise you to learn that the heat cycle...

Golden retriever beautiful lovely pair

More related

Male and Female Dog

How Often Do Dogs Go Into Heat? Vet-Verified Facts & FAQ

When dogs are physically ready to reproduce with a mate, they usually begin to show different signs and behaviors that make it easily...

japanese akita inu puppy dog posing with brush and excess fur or hair shed

Do Dogs Shed More When in Heat? Vet-Approved Possible Reasons & Tips

Dogs tend to live by their own rules, especially when it comes to grooming. They shed their coats wherever they please, leaving a...

Beagle dog looking alert on estrus cycle , reproductive system in dog on estrus cycle

Why Is My Dog’s Vagina Swollen? 5 Vet Explained Reasons & When to Worry

Your dog’s genital area seems bigger than it normally is, so you naturally wonder if it’s time to call the vet or if...

Jack Russell Terrier dog male genital

Dog Genitals: Canine Anatomy Explained (Vet-Approved)

When it comes to your favorite canine companion, you probably think about various parts of their body as it relates to their health—like...

Keep reading

8 Best Dog Foods for Diabetic Dogs in 2025 – Reviews & Top Picks

If your beloved dog has been diagnosed with diabetes, you may be in shock and overwhelmed by the situation. The good news is that with the right diet, lifestyle, and care, your dog can still enjoy many years of good...

Ginger dog eating

Buying Dog Food In Bulk: Benefits & Risks

According to statistics, the typical American dog owner spends an average of $1,380 annually on their dog’s basic expenses.1 While our pooches deserve the world, $1,380 is a lot. As such, any avenue that allows us to save on pet...

dog food_Shutterstock_Ekaterina Markelova

Do Foxes Attack and Eat Dogs? How to Avoid Danger in Your Backyard

Foxes are rather common creatures, found in both rural settings and more populated areas like towns and even major cities. They’re wily creatures and have a reputation for making messes that they often didn’t actually create, though these scavenging predators...

red fox walking on wet street

10 Best Dog Foods for Loose Stools in 2025: Reviews & Top Picks

Picking up after our dogs is one of the least enjoyable aspects of canine ownership. But this task is made even harder if your dog consistently produces stool too loose to be easily collected in a poop bag. If we...

boston terrier dog holding a bowl of food

Can Dogs Eat Goat Meat? Vet-Approved Facts & FAQ

Dogs are facultative carnivores, meaning they can be quite adaptable when it comes to food. Although their ancestors evolved to eat a primarily carnivorous diet, dogs can do well on diets that have a lot of, a little of, or...

Can Dogs Eat Goat Meat

Can Dogs Eat Waffles? Vet-Verified Nutrition Facts & Risks

It’s nice to spend time with your pet in the morning and share a good breakfast with them, which has many people wondering if it is safe to feed waffles to dogs. It might be fine for your dog to...

Can Dogs Eat_waffles

Can Dogs Eat Sunflower Butter? Vet-Reviewed Facts & FAQ

This rich, delicious seed butter is often used by humans as an alternative to peanut butter or a topping that shines on its own. But can dogs eat sunflower butter too? Yes! Sunflower butter is a healthy treat for dogs...

Can Dogs Eat_Sunflower Butter

7 Best Dog Foods for Pitbulls to Gain Muscle in 2025 – Reviews & Top Picks

As pet owners, we all want our companions to thrive and give them the best we can give them when it comes to their nutrition. If you own a Pitbull, you understand that public perception has missed the mark, and...

pitbull eating