5 tips to implement when your dog is in heat

If you make the choice not to have your dog spayed, she will be in heat. In this blog we will tell you what heat means and what you can do to make this as pleasant as possible for your dog.

What is heat?

Heat is the period when the bitch's body prepares to be mated to a male dog. Usually a bitch goes into heat twice a year, but some breeds only go into heat once a year. Heat lasts about three weeks and involves hormonal fluctuations in the dog's body. The dog is not fertile for three weeks, this is only for a few days. The dog's first heat occurs when the female dog has entered puberty. On average, the bitch is between six and 16 months old when she first comes into heat.

Tips when my dog is in heat

1. Don't demand too much from your dog

Hormonal fluctuations can make your four-legged friend very restless and distracted. A training or course in this period can therefore be difficult, because she will probably not always listen well. It is therefore not recommended to attend a training/course during the period of heat. It can also help not to demand too much from her, as this will only increase the agitation. But, don't abandon all rules either.... Otherwise, your dog will become too lazy.  

2. Keep your dog on a leash

It is possible that your four-legged friend will be mated by a male dog while on the loose. Male dogs can smell a dog in heat from very far away. To avoid this, it is wise to keep her on a leash.

3. Adjust your outlet times/outlet area

To avoid all the males chasing your dog, it is useful to adjust your walking times to times when it is quiet. It is also advisable to go to an area where it is quieter.

4. Maintain hygiene

Your four-legged friend may lose extra blood or discharge during her heat. If this happens then it is practical and nice to put a pair of heat pants on her. It is also important to regularly change the cushion or basket your dog lies on. So that she has a clean place to retreat to.

5. Give your dog a little more exercise at home

Because running loose is difficult when in heat, your four-legged friend may not be able to expend her energy well. Therefore, try playing some games in the house or moving around a little more, to cope with her restlessness.  

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