How Long Do Female Dogs Stay In Heat And When Is The Best Time To Breed Them?

Female dogs can get their first heat cycle at the age of 4-18 months depending upon breeds. A female dog can come in to heat twice in a year. Canine heat cycle can last for 2-4 weeks with an average of 3 weeks.

First stage of canine heat cycle is called proestrus. At this time, vaginal bleeding starts and swelling of vulva takes place. This period can last for an average 10 days. Female does not allow males to come close at this stage.

Second stage is called estrus during which she is ready and mating takes place. Ideal time for mating is on 11-15 day starting from the first day of bleeding or when your dog starts to accept males and show flagging behavior.

Third stage is called diestrus which can last for 56-58 days if she becomes pregnant and in case of no pregnancy, this stage may last for 60-100 days.

Fourth and last stage of canine heat cycle is anestrus which is a period of no attraction for and from male dogs. This period can last for 4-5 months.

A female dogs heat cycle lasts about 3 weeks . The best time to breed them is on the last week.

A female cycle is 4 parts, she will accept the male in the 3rd phase, her drainage should be the color of straw. Gestation is 61-63 days, mark the calendar for that time after she has tied with the male the first time. Normal dog temp is 101, it will drop to 98-99 w/in 24 hrs of labor. She will bleed for 2-3 wks. After birth. Puppies need to be wormed starting at 2 wks old, every 2 wks until 4 mo. Old. They need their first shot at 7-8 wks. If you are not familiar with breeding it is not recommended you do it. Can you identify an umbilical hernia? Unless you have a dog that should be bred to carry on its great lineage you should not be a backyard breeder and bring more second rate dogs into the world.