Caring for a Bitch in Season: What Every Dog Owner Should Know

When your female dog enters her season – also known as her heat cycle – it can come as a bit of a shock, particularly if you’re a first-time dog owner. From unexpected bleeding to increased male attention and mood changes, the process requires a thoughtful approach to ensure both your dog’s wellbeing and your own peace of mind. The good news is that caring for a bitch in season is entirely manageable when you know what to expect and how to respond.

In this guide, we’ll explore the signs that indicate your dog is in season, how to care for her during this time, and how to protect her from unwanted attention and stress. Whether you’re simply planning ahead or your dog is already showing signs of being in heat, you’ll find practical advice here to support you.

What Does It Mean When a Dog Is in Season?

A bitch in season is going through the oestrus phase of her reproductive cycle, during which she becomes fertile and capable of getting pregnant. Most dogs have their first season between six and nine months of age, although this can vary depending on the breed. Smaller breeds often come into season earlier, while larger breeds may not experience their first heat until around twelve months or more.

Each season typically lasts between two and three weeks and occurs roughly every six to eight months thereafter. During this period, your dog will go through several hormonal and behavioural changes. The most noticeable signs include a swollen vulva, bloody discharge, increased urination, a tendency to mark her territory, and changes in her temperament. You may also notice her becoming more clingy or, in contrast, seeking more space and solitude.

Recognising the Signs Your Dog Is in Season

The season consists of four distinct phases: proestrus, oestrus, dioestrus, and anoestrus. The first two phases – proestrus and oestrus – are the key times when your dog will show signs of being in heat.

During proestrus, which usually lasts around nine days, you’ll notice swelling of the vulva and the appearance of a bloody discharge. Your dog may urinate more frequently and become less tolerant of other dogs, especially males. In the oestrus phase, which also lasts about nine days, the discharge often lightens in colour and your dog may become receptive to mating. This is the most fertile stage of the cycle, and her behaviour may reflect an increased interest in male dogs.

Throughout this time, you may also observe shifts in your dog’s energy levels, appetite and mood. Some dogs become anxious or excitable, while others appear tired or irritable. These changes are perfectly normal and typically pass once the season ends.

Maintaining Hygiene During the Heat Cycle

Managing hygiene during your dog’s season is important both for her comfort and to keep your home clean. While the amount of bleeding varies between dogs, most will experience a light to moderate discharge for at least part of the cycle.

To reduce mess, many owners opt to use specially designed dog pants or season-proof dog nappies, which are available from pet retailers such as Pets at Home and Amazon UK. These should be changed regularly to maintain hygiene and prevent skin irritation.

It’s also wise to restrict your dog’s access to carpeted areas and soft furnishings. Cover her bed or resting area with washable blankets or towels, and consider using pet-safe wipes to gently clean her genital area a couple of times per day. Regular grooming and basic hygiene go a long way in helping your dog feel more comfortable.

Exercise and Outdoor Safety: Proceed with Care

Although your dog can and should still go out for walks during her season, it’s essential to keep her on the lead at all times and avoid busy parks or areas where dogs are off-lead. Even the best-trained dog may act unpredictably during her heat due to hormonal changes.

It’s recommended that you walk her during quieter times of the day, such as early mornings or late evenings, and stick to quiet routes. Keep a close eye out for male dogs and avoid any interaction with them, even if they seem friendly. Remember that male dogs can detect a bitch in season from great distances and may behave in ways they ordinarily wouldn’t.

If you have a garden, make sure it is fully secure. Never leave your dog unattended outside, as male dogs have been known to scale fences or dig under gates to reach a bitch in season. It’s also possible your own dog may attempt to escape in search of a mate.

Preventing Unwanted Mating

Preventing an unplanned pregnancy is one of the most important aspects of caring for a bitch in season. If you own an unneutered male dog, it is crucial to keep him completely separate from the female for the entire duration of her season. This may mean keeping them in different rooms or, in some cases, arranging for one of them to stay with a friend or family member temporarily.

If an accidental mating does occur, do not attempt to separate the dogs physically, as this can cause injury. Instead, keep them calm and contact your vet immediately. There are veterinary treatments available, such as a mismating injection, that may be administered within a specific time window to prevent pregnancy.

To avoid these situations altogether, it is best to remain vigilant, keep your dog indoors or on-lead outdoors, and avoid contact with male dogs until at least 30 days after the start of the season.

Keeping Your Dog Comfortable and Calm

Your dog may feel physically and emotionally unsettled during her heat cycle, so it’s important to provide a calm, supportive environment. Create a cosy, quiet space where she can rest without disruption, and try to maintain her usual routine as much as possible.

You may find that your dog seeks out more attention and affection, or she may prefer solitude. Follow her lead and respond accordingly. Gentle play, short walks, and interactive toys can help reduce stress, while soft bedding and soothing touch can provide reassurance.

Avoid stressful environments and unnecessary changes during this time, and ensure your dog always has access to fresh water and her normal diet. If she experiences a loss of appetite or unusual lethargy, it’s wise to speak to your vet for reassurance.

Considering Spaying: The Long-Term Solution

If you’re not planning to breed your dog, spaying offers a permanent solution to managing heat cycles and significantly reduces the risk of certain health issues such as pyometra (a serious uterine infection) and mammary tumours. Once spayed, your dog will no longer go into season or experience the related behaviours.

Most vets recommend spaying around two to three months after a season ends, as this allows hormone levels to stabilise and ensures the reproductive system is in a resting state. Some breeds and individuals may benefit from waiting until after their first or second season – your vet will be able to advise you based on your dog’s breed, age and health status.

For a comprehensive overview, the Blue Cross offers helpful advice on spaying and neutering options.

Final Thoughts

Caring for a bitch in season doesn’t need to be stressful. With the right understanding, a few simple precautions, and plenty of patience, you can support your dog through this natural phase safely and comfortably. Stay alert to her behaviour, maintain cleanliness, avoid interaction with male dogs, and speak to your vet if you have any concerns.

If you’re thinking about preventing future seasons, consider the long-term benefits of spaying. Ultimately, what matters most is that your dog feels loved, secure and supported – whatever stage she’s at in life.