When your female dog (or bitch, as the term goes in canine care) comes into heat, it can feel like a whirlwind of emotions, behaviours, and responsibilities. Whether you’re new to this experience or need a refresher, understanding how to keep her safe and comfortable during this time is essential.

What Does “In Heat” Actually Mean?

A bitch in heat is going through her estrus cycle, the phase where she’s fertile and can become pregnant. This typically occurs twice a year and lasts around three weeks. During this time, hormonal changes cause noticeable physical and behavioural shifts—such as a swollen vulva, blood-tinged discharge, and increased interest in male dogs.

If this sounds like a handful, don’t worry—you’re not alone in navigating it. Knowing what to expect and how to respond can make the process smoother for both of you.

Safety Comes First

Keeping your dog safe while she’s in heat is your top priority. Male dogs can pick up the scent of a female in heat from long distances and may become persistent or even aggressive in their attempts to get close. Here’s how to minimise risks:

• Supervised Walks Only: Always keep your bitch on a lead when outside. Even the most well-behaved males can appear out of nowhere, so being vigilant is key.
• Secure Your Garden: If you let her out into your garden, make sure fences are tall and secure enough to keep determined males at bay.
• No Off-Lead Time: This isn’t the time for free roaming in parks or public spaces. Even if she normally has perfect recall, instincts can take over during this period.

Managing Her Comfort

Beyond physical safety, making sure she’s comfortable is just as important. Being in heat can be stressful and might leave her feeling out of sorts.

• Provide a Quiet Space: She might prefer some alone time during this period, so set up a cozy area where she can rest away from household hustle and bustle.
• Use Protective Pants: Canine heat pants or nappies can help manage the discharge and prevent unwanted messes around the house. Make sure they fit snugly without restricting her movement.
• Stick to Routine: Dogs thrive on consistency, so maintaining her usual feeding and exercise schedule can help her feel secure.

Watch Out for Behavioural Changes

Hormones can play havoc with your dog’s behaviour. She may become more clingy, irritable, or restless. Some bitches actively seek out male dogs, so you’ll need to keep an extra close eye on her. On the flip side, she may also seem less interested in play and more focused on sniffing and marking.

This is all normal, but if her behaviour becomes particularly challenging, a quick chat with your vet can help you figure out how to manage it.

Timing Matters

Knowing the stages of her cycle can help you plan ahead. The first week or so involves the heaviest discharge and swelling, but she’s not yet ready to mate. By the second week, she’s at peak fertility and most attractive to males. The third week signals the tail end of her cycle, with symptoms tapering off.

Being aware of these phases means you can adjust your care accordingly, ensuring she stays safe throughout.

Should You Consider Spaying?

If dealing with heat cycles feels overwhelming, spaying might be worth considering. This procedure eliminates the heat cycle altogether and prevents unwanted pregnancies. It also offers health benefits, such as reducing the risk of uterine infections and certain cancers.

However, it’s a big decision and one that depends on factors like your dog’s age, health, and breeding plans. Discussing it with your vet can help you decide what’s best for your dog.

Keeping Other Dogs at Bay

If you live in a multi-dog household, managing her heat cycle becomes even more crucial. Male dogs, regardless of their usual temperament, can become very determined and disruptive when a female is in heat. Separating them completely is essential—preferably in different parts of the house or even sending one to stay with a trusted friend temporarily.

Be Prepared for the Unexpected

Dogs in heat can be unpredictable, and sometimes accidents happen despite your best efforts. If an unwanted mating occurs, contact your vet immediately. They can advise on next steps and provide support if needed.

Patience and Care

It might feel like a bit of a juggling act, but keeping your bitch safe during her heat cycle is manageable with a little preparation. Your calm, consistent care will help her feel secure during what can be a confusing time for both of you.

As her guardian, you’ve got the tools and knowledge to navigate these few weeks smoothly. She may not be able to thank you in words, but her wagging tail will let you know you’re doing a brilliant job.

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