This is a lesser-discussed topic and something that even most dog parents don’t know much about- menstruation in dogs. In this blog, we will try to cover everything that you need to know about menstruation in dogs/dog periods briefly. 

Menstruation in female dogs is technically called the estrus cycle and more commonly called heat. There are many things you need to know about female dogs when they are on heat.

First, let us bust some myths about menstruation in dogs-

• Female dogs don’t menstruate as humans do. This is the most common myth among people and also a reason why some people prefer to adopt male dogs. However, it is not at all true and there are many differences between human menstruation and dog menstruation.
  
  
• They do not menstruate every month. Yes, it’s not very commonly known but it’s true. People might think that female dogs are on heat every month or something like are humans. In fact, female dogs are usually on heat twice or thrice a year, and that too for 2-3 weeks.
  
  

  “Dogs typically have two heats per year, but each dog differs in length of heat, discharge amount, and hormonal changes.”

  
  
  
• Female dogs hit puberty at the age of 6-8 months and that is when they menstruate for the first time. The cycle can be a bit irregular initially as their body is trying to get used to it, but after the first two years, the cycle starts to get normalized.
  
  
• Not all female dogs need to be wearing a pad or diaper while menstruating. Most female dogs keep themselves clean by licking their own self. It's totally normal for them to lick themselves and it is a natural thing. Many times you wouldn’t even realize that your dog is on heat, it’s because the blood isn’t visible when they keep cleaning it off.
  
  However, it’s totally normal if your dog isn’t keeping herself clean which is why there are products like doggie sanitary napkins, diapers, etc. You can check them out from our store’s special hygiene category.
  
  

Many people ask us if adopting a female dog will be tougher duty than adopting a male dog, and we always tell them that female dogs are just as adorable as male dogs. In fact, they are said to be more affectionate and loving than the male ones. It’s just that for the longest time there have been rumors that female dogs need a lot of care and are very demanding during heat, but we have tried to break maximum myths.

Now let’s look at some pointers on how to take care of your doggo when she’s on heat-

• Never leave your doggo out alone, especially when she’s on heat. This would prevent unwanted pregnancies and the male gaze. And abortion is a very risky procedure in dogs, it's better to be safe than sorry. 
  
  
• Don’t take her for off-leash walks when she’s menstruating. Even if your dog is highly trained, natural instincts can be really over-powering.
  
  
• Maintain a good balance between rest and exercise that suits your doggo. Different dogs behave differently while on heat, some may become very lazy while others may become restless.
  
  
• Consult your vet every once in a while related to your dog’s cycle.
  
  
• Female dogs can show some behavioral changes while they are on heat and it's totally natural. Just pamper her with love and take care of her needs. 
  
  
• Try to keep her physical activity less as compared to normal days. She may feel tired and lethargic and it's okay.
  
  

• If your pooch is bleeding heavily and is not keeping herself clean, go for sanitary pads. There are sanitary napkins available for female dogs at pet stores and also online. You can check them out here.

To sum it up-

Menstruation in dogs is as normal as menstruation in humans. It is important to understand your dogs' needs when she is on heat and give her the space she needs. We often are asked if adopting female dogs is a handful of responsibilities and we always say that adopting any pet is a big responsibility. Female dogs are beautiful in their own way and they just need a little extra care while on heat but there's also extra affection that they show towards their pawrents. We hope that we were able to clear basic queries about menstruation in dogs, if there's anything else you'd like to know, feel free to contact us.