How do I know when my bitch is on heat?

On heat or in season are other terms for the period when a bitch is in oestrus.  In other words, it is the part of the oestrus cycle when the bitch becomes interesting to males, ovulation occurs and a bitch can become pregnant.

On average bitches come into oestrus every six months, although for some bitches it is quite normal for it to be less frequent.  Often, where there are a group of bitches together their cycles will synchronise, in the same way that the human menstrual cycle will within a group of women. 

The first thing that you will notice when your bitch is coming into oestrus is a change of behaviour.  The most obvious signs are frequent urination and flirtatious behaviour, however in the early stages the bitch will snap at any dog that tries to mount her.

You will notice that the vulva begins to swell, becomes pink and slightly resembles a tulip! 

The first part of the ‘season’ called pro-oestrus lasts about 9 days and during this time the bitch has a bright red bloody discharge.  Some bitches bleed more than others, and some are better at keeping themselves clean, but  this is the time when you are most likely to get blood-stained floor, carpets and furniture if you keep your bitch indoors. 

Oestrus occurs around day 10, the discharge changes colour to a yellowy orange and ovulation takes place.  This is the time when the bitch will allow mating and it will usually take place between day 10 and day 12.

After day 12 the vulva begins to return to normal and the discharge dries up.  The entire process from start to finish usuaully lasts about 3 weeks.