Heat Cycle In Dogs. The cycle lasts an average of 12 to 21 days but can be as short as a few days or last as long as four weeks. The first period takes place between 6 months and 1 year of age although this always depends on the type of breed. Generally this dog heat cycle bleeding appears 2 times per year once every 6 months. This is the fourth and final stage of the dog heat cycle when your dog is normal.
In some large dog breeds the first heat might not appear until they are 2 years old. The Proestrus Stage Getting Ready. The canine estrus cycle commonly referred to as the dog heat cycle occurs every 6 to 12 months. A dog heat cycle only happens once or twice a year. Many times the onset of puberty and the length of the estrus cycle depends on the breed and size of the dog. A puppy can go into heat sooner than you think.
During your dogs complete heat cycle she will experience four phases.
How long are dogs in heat. Diagram showing two heat cycles back to back. Mature eggs are released from the bitchs ovaries and her body is preparing for mating and the possibility of producing a litter. Small breed dogs may cycle three times per year while giant breed dogs may only cycle once every 12 months. In conclusion pay attention to your dog. Dogs will typically have two heats per year but each dog differs in length of heat discharge amount and hormonal changes.