Sex

Female dogs may start their heat cycle as early as four months of age (especially in toy and miniature breeds), but often it begins around six months of age. It's possible that larger breeds, especially giants, don't go into heat for the first time until they're 18 to 24 months old.

It is not recommended to breed a young female dog during her first or second cycle. This is because of the immaturity of both their eggs and their canine. To find out whether your dog is of breeding age, it's best to check in with your vet.

The average length of a heat cycle is between two and four weeks. Some female dogs may be infertile at the beginning of their cycles, while others may stay fertile throughout. The cycle is over when the dog's vulva has shrunk back to its regular size and there is no longer any bleeding or discharge.

For the sake of the female dog and any pups she could have, it is essential to use responsible breeding procedures. The breeding procedure should never begin without first consulting a veterinarian. Veterinarians may advise on the best time to breed your dog, keep an eye on mom's health throughout pregnancy, and make sure you take good care of the new additions.

Physical changes are one indicator that a dog's heat cycle has come to an end. At the end of the cycle, the dog's vulva shrinks back to its regular size, and she has no more bleeding or discharge. These outward signs indicate that the dog is no longer in estrus and may assist owners in making that determination. Careful attention to the dog's actions and symptoms at this time is essential.