INTRODUCTION

Oestrus is one of the natural moments in the life of animals, it is what indicates that they are biologically ready to conceive (although in responsible breeding you have to wait for at least the second oestrus).

WHAT IS ‘OESTRUS’?

Oestrus in bitches is a period when they undergo hormonal and physical changes. This normally occurs in bitches. The males take advantage of this situation to mate.

What are the symptoms?

SWELLING OF THE SEXUAL ORGANS

During the first two weeks of oestrus, the vulva becomes inflamed. This is one of the first signs of this period. Occasionally this area darkens. It is normal for the bitch to lick this area continuously.

BLOOD LEAKAGE

One of the symptoms of oestrus in bitches is bleeding and swelling of the vulva. This serves to attract the attention of males. The blood contains a substance called pheromone which attracts their attention.

FEEDING

Some bitches eat less than normal. This is normal behaviour when bitches come into heat. They are reluctant to eat (if this situation lasts longer, it is advisable to see a vet).

WANTS TO SOCIALISE MORE WITH MALES

This is alarming behaviour. It is normal that by nature dogs tend to socialise. But if the bitch frolics and sniffs more than usual with a dog, it is a sign of reproductive attraction.

How long does oestrus last in bitches?

The duration of oestrus in bitches can be influenced by several factors: size, age or state of health. In general, oestrus can last between 15 and 23 days and occurs twice a year. It is advisable to note the dates of the beginning and end of the oestrus.
During oestrus bitches go through 4 stages:

PROESTRO

This phase lasts about 4 to 10 days. The vulva is swollen and leaking blood. The bitch is eager to leave the house and regularly licks the area.

ESTRO

This is the fertile stage. The bitch is receptive and lasts between 3 and 17 days. The bitch will let the males sniff her and will urinate many times to leave pheromones.

DIESTRO

The duration of this stage of oestrus in bitches can last between 60 and 100 days. It will depend on whether or not fertilisation has taken place.
In this phase the bitch rejects the mating and, so to speak, returns to the way she was before. They eat normally and their character stabilises.

ANESTRO

If fertilisation has taken place, the previous stage ends with whelping. This is the stage of sexual inactivity.

PHANTOM’ OESTRUS

The concept of ‘phantom heat’ is not well known among dog owners and few cases are recorded as such. Phantom heat’ is only associated with fertile bitches and translates as a time of heat that does not show any of the above mentioned symptoms. The bitch may be mounted and pregnant in exactly the same way, but we are not aware of it until the signs of it become evident.
It can occur outside of the usual oestrus dates and occurs when there are masses in the reproductive tract or major hormonal imbalances.

CONSEQUENCES OF OESTRUS

The consequences of oestrus can range from the usual and annoying day-to-day ones to some that are more dangerous from a medical point of view.

Here are some of them:

• Bleeding (and staining of furniture or bedding).
• Male dogs running at large may come to the door of the house attracted by the scent of the female dog.
• Male dogs running loose in the street may harass us during walks.
• Psychological pregnancies (after the oestrus is over).
• Pyometra (after the oestrus is over).
• Unwanted pregnancies (if we are irresponsible or careless during the heat).
  
  

HOW CAN I MAKE MY DOG'S OESTRUS EASIER?

Some tips that we can apply to make our day-to-day life during the heat easier are the following:

• Always walk her on a lead (do not let her out in public places, whether open or closed, where we cannot act quickly).
  
  
• Doors and windows should be tightly closed
  
  
• We can use panties for the heat or baby/adult nappies (depending on the size of our dog) making a hole for the tail, in this way we will avoid that they stain in the house.
  
  
• If we have fertile males at home, the best thing to do is to take them to a kennel or with a friend/family member for those days, in this way we will avoid the male getting very stressed, causing any small damage or having an accident.
  
  

CONCLUSION

The heat can be an annoying moment, but if it is carried out responsibly, it does not have to cause any serious problems. If we do not want to or cannot be aware of it, it is best to opt for sterilisation once the first heat has passed.