Ghar Ki Beti (The Daughter of the House): Understanding Your Female Dog’s Heat Cycle
When you bring a female dog home, you are responsible for her health through every stage of life. The “heat cycle” (also called the oestrous cycle) is the natural time when she is fertile and can become pregnant.
Understanding this cycle is crucial. Whether you plan to breed her or—more importantly—to prevent unwanted pregnancies (a big responsibility in India), knowing the signs will keep her safe and comfortable.
What is the Heat Cycle and When Does it Happen? 🐕
The heat cycle is a natural, hormonal process. It happens roughly:
- Age of First Heat (Pehli Baar): Most dogs start their first cycle between 6 and 12 months of age. Smaller breeds might start earlier, while larger breeds (like Labradors or German Shepherds) may start a bit later.
- Frequency: on average, dogs come into heat twice a year, about every six months.
- Duration: Each heat cycle lasts around 2 to 4 weeks. She is most fertile and receptive to males around the second week.
Signs to Watch For (Pechan Lo Yeh Ishaare) 👀
You will notice changes in her behaviour and physical body.
1. Physical Changes:
- Swelling: Her vulva (the external genital area) will look visibly swollen or enlarged.
- Discharge (Khooni Paani): You will notice a bloody discharge. This can range from light pink to a dark red and is the most obvious sign.
- Grooming: She will spend more time licking and cleaning her genital area.
2. Behavioural Changes:
- Affection or Restlessness: She might become extra clingy and affectionate, or conversely, she may seem restless and anxious.
- Territory Marking: She might start urinating in small amounts more frequently to mark territory.
- Tail Flagging: She may move her tail to the side (ek taraf hata dena) when touched or when a male dog approaches—a sign that she is ready to mate.
3. Attracting Males:
The powerful scent of a female in heat can attract male dogs from a distance. If you see male dogs suddenly gathering outside your gate, your female dog is likely in heat.
Managing the Heat Cycle: Your Responsibilities 🏡
Your primary goal is to prevent accidental mating and keep your home clean.
- Supervision is Key: Never leave her unsupervised outside, even in your compound or society park. Male dogs are very determined during this time.
- No Free Roaming: Keep her on a leash during all walks. Avoid busy parks or areas where you know there are many male dogs.
- Hygiene & Comfort:
- Use doggy nappies or “heat pants” (easily available in Indian pet stores and online) to manage the discharge and keep your home clean.
- Regularly wash her bedding.
- Give her extra cuddles and attention to help calm her restlessness or anxiety.
- Monitor Health: Keep an eye on the discharge. If you notice a foul smell, excessive bleeding, or if she becomes very dull (sust), consult your vet immediately.
The Most Responsible Choice: Spaying (Spaying Karana) ❤️
If you do not plan to breed your female dog, spaying (removal of the ovaries and uterus) is the most loving and responsible decision you can make.
Why Spaying is Better:
- Prevents Pregnancy: It completely eliminates the risk of accidental litters, solving the entire management problem.
- Health Protection: It drastically reduces the risk of mammary (breast) cancer and eliminates the risk of pyometra (a life-threatening uterine infection common in unspayed female dogs).
- Peace of Mind: You eliminate the stress of managing the heat cycle and the constant worry of male dogs being attracted to your home.
By understanding the heat cycle and making careful choices, you ensure your female dog is comfortable, healthy, and protected throughout her life.
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