THE BITCH

A bitch’s first season generally occurs between the ages of 6 and 24 months depending on the breed. Large and giant breeds tend to develop more slowly and therefore do not reach puberty until much later than the smaller breeds.

What to expect

In the days and sometimes weeks leading up to a season bitches often display a change in temperament, and become more subdued and clingy. You may also notice an increase in the frequency of urination as they scent their territory to attract male dogs.

The onset of the season is indicated by swelling of the vulva, and bleeding. The amount of blood produced varies between individuals, and as bitches in season tend to show an increase in licking of the vulval area, it may appear that very little blood is being passed.

The bitch’s season generally lasts an average of approximately 3 weeks, and she will normally bleed for the first 10-14 days of this period. She will be attractive to male dogs from the onset of her season, however she will not normally allow a dog to mount her until approximately 7-10 days into the season.

If you intend to breed from your bitch, ovulation normally occurs around the 11^th day, and so the most fertile time is between days 10-14 of oestrus. This varies between individuals, and your vets will be able to carry out tests to give you a better indication of when a mating is most likely to be successful

It is essential that the bitch is monitored closely during her season as her scent will be very attractive to male dogs. It is wise to try and walk her in areas where you are unlikely to come across other dogs, and keep her on the lead at all times. If you have an un-neutered male in the same house it may be advisable to board him elsewhere for the duration of the season as he is likely to try and mount her, and may also start urine marking both inside and outside the house.

An average interval between seasons is around 6 months, however this can vary from anywhere between about 4 to 12 months depending on the individual.

Phantom pregnancy

Phantom pregnancy is a condition where the bitch displays signs of pregnancy and maternal behaviour when they are not pregnant. It is not uncommon and occurs to varying degrees in different individuals. The onset of clinical signs generally occurs between 4-9 weeks after the season has finished, and can include behavioural changes such as nesting and “mothering” of toys, a change in temperament, mammary development - often including the production of milk - and sometimes a loss of appetite. Mild cases often resolve without any need for veterinary treatment, however some more severe cases may need medical intervention.

An increase in exercise and removal of any toys that the bitch appears to be “mothering” can help. It is also advisable to not let young children into any nests that the bitch may have made as she may become snappy and protective.

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