Health Concerns for Female Dogs In Heat

Female dogs in heat can be a challenge to deal with. Their bloody discharge can stain your carpet and furniture, the smell of their pheremones will attract male dogs from miles around and if she is left unsupervised outdoors, your bitch is very likely to be approached and bred by an aggressive male dog. She may also experience a mood change when she is in heat and become more aggressive, protective or territorial.

Unless you are operating a responsible breeding program, there is no good reason to avoid spaying your dog. She will be happy and possibly healthier if you spay her as this procedure can reduce her risk for certain cancers, diabetes, mange and epilepsy. If you spay your dog before her first heat cycle, her risk of developing breast cancer is .05%. In an unspayed dog, that risk is 8%. Think of your dog's health, as well as your own convenience.

These days, spaying a female dog is a common 1-day abdominal surgery in which a veterinarian removes the dog's uterus and ovaries.

If you own an unspayed female dog, chances are she will come into heat for the first time at about 6-9 months of age and about twice a year thereafter. To avoid the hassle of handling female dogs in heat, you can have your dog spayed for a very reasonable cost and this will prevent spotting in the house as well as the possibility of unwanted pregnancy. Many pet over-population advocacy groups offer low-cost spay and neuter clinics. If cost is an issue for you, search these out and see what they can do to help you.

The best time to spay your female dog is before she comes into heat the first time but after she has some adult growth. Generally about 6 months of age is a good time to shoot for, but check with your vet and see what he recommends for your dog's breed.