The health of our four-legged friends is paramount, and in many cases, we want to avoid unwanted reproduction. One of the key moments in a dog’s life is her heat period, which repeats approximately every six months. Sometimes managing this period can be complicated for both the owner and the dog. For those owners looking for natural and safe methods to manage this cycle, this article will provide you some useful tips.

Understanding the heat cycle in dogs

The heat cycle in dogs It is a natural hormonal process which is repeated approximately every six months. During this cycle, bitches go through four stages: proestrus, estrus, diestrus, and anestrus. Each of these stages has specific characteristics and durations, and understanding them is essential to managing heat effectively.

The 4 stages of heat in dogs

Proestrus

During proestrus, which lasts approximately 7 to 10 days, the dog experiences physical and behavioral changes. During this stage, your vulva may be swollen and there may be a bloody discharge. The bitch attracts males by releasing pheromones, but is not ready to mate. During proestrus, it is important to keep the dog under supervision and Avoid contact with unneutered males.

Oestrus

Estrus is the stage of fertility and can last 5 to 9 days. During this phase, The dog is at its most fertile and receptive to mating. The bloody discharge decreases and becomes lighter in color. During estrus, the bitch may display behaviors such as raising her tail, actively seeking out males, and showing interest in mating. If breeding is desired, additional precautions should be taken to avoid contact with unneutered males.

Right handed

After estrus, diestrus follows, which is the period of hormonal inactivity. If the dog has mated during estrus and has become pregnant, this stage will correspond to the gestation period. However, if reproduction has not occurred, diestrus is a period of hormonal rest. During this stage, there are no obvious external signs and the dog can behave normally. It is important to note that unwanted pregnancy can occur if the dog has mated during estrus.

Anestrus

Anestrus is the period of sexual rest that follows diestrus and can last 2 to 3 months. During this stage, there is no hormonal activity related to heat and the dog is in a state of reproductive rest. It is important to take advantage of this time to provide general care and ensure good health for the dog, such as providing adequate nutrition and maintaining her regular exercise routine. During anestrus, the bitch is less likely to attract males and show interest in mating.

Natural and safe techniques to manage heat

As we said at the beginning, a dog’s heat is a natural and necessary process for your reproductive health. However, I understand that it may be uncomfortable or inconvenient for some pet owners. It’s important to put attention on There are no natural or safe methods to stop or stop a dog’s heat.

On the other hand, it is possible to implement different natural techniques to manage it safely.

Balanced diet

Maintaining a balanced and nutrient-rich diet is essential to ensure your dog’s hormonal well-being. Opt for quality foods, such as premium commercial foods or a proper homemade dietwill provide the nutrients necessary to maintain a healthy hormonal system.

Additionally, some foods that are especially rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon or fish oil, may have anti-inflammatory properties and help balance hormones. Nevertheless, It is crucial to remember that each dog is unique. and has individual needs, so it is essential to consult a veterinarian to determine the appropriate diet for your pet.

Regular physical exercise

Regular physical exercise plays a vital role in maintaining your dog’s physical fitness and in the release of accumulated energy. During the heat period, exercise can be especially beneficial, as it helps reduce the stress and anxiety that some dogs may experience.

Daily walks, interactive games and activities that stimulate both your mind and your body are highly recommended. However, it is important to exercise caution during estrus and avoid places where they may encounter non-neutered males to prevent possible problems or unwanted situations.

Natural supplements

Some natural supplements can be of great help in managing your dog’s heat cycle. As we mentioned before, Fish oils are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which can help balance hormones. However, it is important to note that before administering any type of supplement it is essential to consult with a veterinarian. Each dog is unique and may have specific needs, so a veterinary health professional will be able to provide personalized recommendations and ensure that the best decisions are made for your pet’s well-being.

The use of protective clothing for dogs

exist special garments designed for female dogs in heat that can help prevent bleeding and protect her from males. These garments are available at pet stores and can help prevent unwanted contact with other dogs.

Some benefits of wearing protective clothing for dogs during heat are:

1. Bleeding prevention: These garments are designed with an absorbent layer on the bottom that helps retain bleeding during heat, thus preventing it from staining your home or furniture.
2. Protection against unwanted males: During the heat, males can be very persistent in their search for a female in heat. Protective clothing helps decrease the odor and visual cues of heat, thereby reducing interest and harassment from males.
3. Greater comfort: Protective clothing can help your dog feel more comfortable during heat by providing an extra layer of coverage and safety.

The importance of veterinary consultation

Although there are natural methods that can help manage your dog’s heat, It is essential to have the guidance and monitoring of a veterinarian. A trained veterinarian will not only provide specific information about your dog’s breed and overall health, but will also provide personalized recommendations tailored to your pet’s individual needs.

Additionally, have the supervision of a professional will ensure that the best decisions are made regarding your diet, supplementation and hormonal care, thus ensuring their long-term well-being. Do not hesitate to consult a trusted veterinarian to obtain appropriate advice and provide your dog with the necessary veterinary care.

Conclusion

Managing heat in a dog requires understanding and proper care. Understanding the different stages of the heat cycle and its characteristics is essential to address it effectively. By complementing with a balanced diet, regular exercise andin some cases, natural supplementss, we can help our dog go through this process more comfortably.

However, it is always important to have the advice of a veterinarian, who will be able to provide us with the best guidance for Ensure the health and well-being of your dog.