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Breeding Issues for Pet Owners |
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Estrus and MatingWhen does a female dog first come into heat? Puberty or sexual maturity in the female dog usually occurs around six months of age. The smaller breeds tend to go into "heat" earlier and some females can have their first "heat" or estrus as early as four months of age. On the other hand, the large and giant breeds can be up to two years old before they come into heat for the first time. How often is my female likely to come into heat? On average this occurs about twice a year, although it varies from dog to dog. After the first heat there is often a great deal of variation in the frequency and this is normal. Some females take a year to eighteen months to develop a regular cycle.
Very large breeds may only cycle once every 12-18 months. In most giant breeds (Great Danes, Irish Wolfhounds, St Bernard's) a yearly estrus is common. How long does a "heat cycle" or estrus last? Heat cycles vary, but average two to three weeks for most dogs. Heat should be considered to begin with the first signs of discharge and with the female paying attention to her vulva. The vulva will begin to appear swollen. It ends when all discharge ceases and the vulva has returned to its normal size. What are the signs of heat? The most notable sign is vaginal bleeding. Often this does not become apparent until a few days after the female has actually come into estrus. Vulvar swelling should be taken as the first sign, in addition to the female paying increased attention to her rear end. From the beginning of the heat period, she will be attractive to male dogs but does not usually allow mating until about 7-10 days later. The discharge will usually become less bloodstained at this time. Some females experience heavy vaginal bleeding during estrus. If you are concerned, please consult us. You may also find that she is passing small quantities of urine more frequently. The urine contains both pheromones and hormones signaling to any interested males that she will be receptive soon. How do I know when it is the best time to mate my dog? This can be difficult. Some females can ovulate either early or late during the heat period. Most ovulate and are receptive around the 11th day of estrus. The discharge will then be less bloody and the female will be actively looking for a male. Are there any tests to determine when to mate my dog? Yes. There are two simple tests available from your veterinarian.
Both tests can be performed at the veterinary practice. The blood test gives a very good indication when mating is most likely to be successful and is very useful for females that have a history of unsuccessful mating or for breeding dogs that have to travel considerable distance to the stud. It is required for artificial insemination, or frozen semen breedings. What can I do to ensure mating is accomplished satisfactorily? Surprisingly, male dogs appear to be more stress sensitive than females during mating. Thus, successful matings are more common when the dog is in its own environment. It is for this reason that females are usually taken to the stud dog. The time of mating is extremely critical and it is worthwhile It is also normal to arrange for two matings for your dog, often 24 or 48 hours apart. Check these details with the owner of the stud when making initial enquiries. Also, check the situation if your dog does not become pregnant as a result of the service. Contracts between the stud owner and the bitch owner are recommended. I was told that my female had tied well with the dog and that only one service was necessary. What does this mean?
I found my dog tied to a female dog during a mismating. Was there anything I could do to separate them? There is little point in trying to separate animals that are locked in this way. Buckets of cold water, water pistols, cap guns, etc. do little to speed up the process of separation and merely upsets the animals. In fact, forced separation can result in serious injury to the female and should be avoided. If a mismating has occurred, discuss it with your veterinarian as soon as possible. Please do not hesitate to contact us at 309-685-4707if you have any questions or concerns. This client information sheet has been revised from material written by Ernest E. Ward Jr., DVM. ©Copyright 2002 Lifelearn Inc. Used with permission under license. Dec. 16, 2002. | |||||||||
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There is no evidence that irregular heat cycles predispose the dog to false pregnancies or pyometra (uterine infection). Small breeds tend to cycle more regularly than the larger breeds. Three and occasionally four heat cycles per year can be normal in some females.
to have tests carried out at the practice to determine the ideal mating period. For most females, the best time for breeding is between the 10-14th day of estrus. Some females ovulate as early as the third or fourth day or as late as the eighteenth day. Blood tests will assist in determining the best period for your dog.
The genital anatomy of the male and female is such that during coitus, part of the dog's penis (the bulbis glandis) enlarges and is held firmly by the uscles of the vagina which contract, thus preventing the penis from being withdrawn. This is the "tie" that is considered a desirable feature of a successful mating. It is important to note that pregnancy can occur without a "tie". Once "tied" the male dog will often step over the female or be turned by handlers into a position so that the animals are back to back.