Pet Care & Dog Breeder Guides — heat

Vulvar swelling, a bloody discharge, and increased interest from male dogs can indicate that an intact female dog is entering her heat cycle. These signs do not tell you exactly when she ovulates or establish that breeding is appropriate. Understand the four cycle stages A basic overview of the canine reproductive cycle Stage General description Proestrus Swelling and bloody discharge may appear. Male dogs may show interest before the female accepts mating. Estrus The female is generally receptive to mating. Ovulation occurs during this stage. Diestrus The female is no longer receptive; reproductive and hormonal changes continue. Anestrus The relatively...