Hey there, fellow service dog handlers! 👋 Today, let’s chat about a topic that’s becoming more relevant as science learns more about the health impacts of early spaying and neutering: managing your furry friend’s heat cycle. Don’t worry, I’ve got your back with some friendly advice to make this experience as smooth as possible for both you and your pup!
The Basics of Canine Heat Cycles
First things first, let’s talk biology. During the approximately 3 heat cycle, you might notice your girl:
- Smaller more frequent pees (think 5 to 10 in an hour walk)
- Sporting a swollen vulva (about three times its usual size)
- First clear pink droplets, then blood drops during the middle 7 days of the cycle
- Having slightly stinky breath from self-grooming (totally normal, don’t fret!)
- The dogs have to be “tied” to get pregnant. This means a casual humping won’t get your dog pregnant but it can lead to that if not interrupted.
Tips for a Stress-Free Heat Cycle
Comfort is Key
Let’s keep your dog comfy:
- Try doggy panties with disposable liners (pro tip: even light day pads work great!)
- OR if you don’t want to do the dogs wearing clothing approach, set up a cozy spot in a central area of your home that has an easy-to-clean surfaces like linoleum, or add foam tiles or yoga mats.
- Or use both options. I put panties on my dog at night so she could sleep with us, then took them off during the day when she had access to the cleanable floor space.
- Use washable old blankets or towels for a dog bed or cover the current one with a waterproof cover.
Keep the Routine Rolling
- Stick to your usual activity levels as much as possible
- Treat your pup to licki mats, frozen Kongs, chew sticks etc. for entertainment
Walkies with Caution
- Choose leashed areas or spots with fewer dogs
- Use a long line for more freedom in safe areas
- Be prepared to politely ask other dog owners for space (tell them your dog is contagious if needed.)
Public Outings
- Supervise your dog at all times when outdoors-even in your own yard! Intact males go to great lengths to access a female in heat
- It’s best to avoid stores and other indoor public places
- If you must go out, be extra vigilant about other dogs
- Let others handle the shopping if possible so you can focus on your dog
Emotional Changes
Remember, hormones can affect your dog’s behavior. Some pups might become more sensitive, others more reactive, some more bold and some might not change at all. This could be a great opportunity to reinforce positive behaviors or change her emotional responses to situations if your dog is in a good headspace.
The heat cycle lasts about 3 weeks make sure to protect your dog from pregnancy for an additional week in case your observations of heat start date are off.
By following these tips, you’ll be well-prepared to handle your dog’s heat cycle like a pro. 🐶❤️
Check out our QA video Chat on this topic in our SDTI library. You’ll need to subscribe https://servicedogtraininginstitute.online/groups/library-subscription/ to be able to watch the recording. Buy a single month then cancel immediately and you will get 30 days access from time of purchase. Tons of other information too.
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