How to Care for a Dog in Heat

Approximately every six months, a female dog comes into heat. At this time her hormones are preparing her body to attract a male and become pregnant. If you are planning to breed her, this is the time to do it. But if not, her cycle can cause stress for both of you. Follow some easy guidelines and minimize the problems.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Sterilize your pooch if you are not going to breed her. Not only will it prevent unwanted puppies but also it may prolong her lifespan.

2. Keep her inside and close the windows. Male dogs are attracted by the scent of a female in heat up to three miles away. Minimize the effect by keeping the windows shut.

3. Keep an eye on your fence. Even if your female dog can’t jump out, male dogs may be able to jump in. Chain link fences are easy for some dogs to climb and owners report that even cedar fences won't always deter a dog seeking romance.

4. Apply a little menthol rub to a spot just under the female dog's tail to thwart would-be suitors. Some veterinarians also recommend a little dab on a male’s nose to mask the female’s scent.

5. Give her some chlorophyll tablets. Dog owners use these with varying success in an attempt to mask a female’s odor during her heat cycle. Ask your vet for the recommended dosage based upon your dog's weight.

6. Keep your pooch calm. She’s anxious during this time and needs attention. Schedule extra time to pet and brush her and play some soft classical music to sooth her nerves. Avoid allowing youngsters to frolic and get her excited.

7. Dress her in a pair of protective doggy panties to protect your floor and furniture from discharge stains. Available in pet stores, these pull-on diapers have a hole for her tail to stick out. Keep enough on hand to last for the first two weeks of her three-week cycle.

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[cherylphillips]

on 6/13/2009 important info for dog owners! 5*

[jenng]

on 6/2/2009 Great article on how to care for a dog in heat 5*

[SchoolOfLife]

on 3/14/2009 Very well written, great information. Keep up the good work! :P

[Tippy]

on 9/9/2008 It's always good to get them spayed when they will not be bred.

The dog, herself, will try to wash and clean herself but unless you buy those doggy diapers, which most dogs just chew off, anyway, you'll have to keep cleaning up after her. But keep her inside! She will attract every loose male dog in the neighborhood.

[spookyjudy]

on 9/8/2008 I have a dog in heat and need to know how to keep this area clean. I am getting her spayed as soon as it is over. She is a rescue from the streets.