Female dogs typically get their first "period," known as the heat or estrus cycle, when they reach sexual maturity, which is usually around 6 to 12 months of age. Smaller breeds may start earlier, while larger breeds can start as late as 18 to 24 months. The heat cycle, during which they may have vaginal bleeding or discharge, lasts about 2 to 4 weeks. Dogs usually go into heat about twice a year, though smaller breeds may have more frequent cycles and larger breeds less frequent ones. This cycle is not a menstrual period like humans have but a reproductive phase involving hormonal changes and fertility. Key points:
- First heat cycle generally occurs between 6 to 12 months of age.
- Smaller breeds tend to start earlier; larger breeds later (up to 2 years).
- The heat cycle lasts about 2 to 4 weeks.
- Dogs bleed during the heat cycle, but it is not the same as human menstruation.
- Most dogs go into heat approximately every 6 months; smaller breeds may cycle more often, larger breeds less often.
- Physical signs include swollen vulva, bloody discharge, increased urination, and behavioral changes.
This means female dogs don't have a monthly period but a heat cycle occurring every few months that includes some bleeding and fertility.
