Most non-spayed female dogs go into heat every 6 months or twice yearly though breed, health and age impact cycle regularity.
Cycle Length
The receptive fertility phase of heat averages 9 days but intact heat cycles last up to 3 weeks from start to finish.
Duration
The onset of sexual maturity triggers first heats while sunlight exposure regulates estrous cycle hormone changes in subsequent seasons.
Triggers
Appetite changes, restlessness, frequent urination, tail flagging, swollen vulva and vaginal bleeding signal recurring heat onset.
Behavior
While variable by breed, puberty strikes female puppies between 6-15 months old with smaller dogs maturing earlier than larger breeds.
Age
Spaying eliminates heats altogether preventing mammary tumors, unwanted mating behaviors, messiness, and aggression risks.
Spaying
Use dog diapers, confinement, supervision and scent masking to safely manage intact heat cycles until the planned spay date.
Safety