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What Do you do When your Dog Gets her Period at First Time? A little guide just for you in 2023

As a responsible dog owner, it’s essential to be prepared for all stages of your pet’s life, including its first heat cycle. Female dogs typically experience their first period between 6-12 months of age, and it’s essential to understand how to care for your dog during this time. The process can be confusing for many pet owners who are not familiar with the changes that occur, such as discharge and behavioral shifts.

what do you do when your dog gets her period at first time

This article will provide guidance on what to do when your dog gets her period for the first time, including tips on monitoring her behavior, keeping her clean, preventing unwanted pregnancies, and maintaining her normal routine. With the right knowledge and preparation, you can ensure that your dog stays healthy and happy throughout this process.

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Guidance on What to Do when your Dog gets her Period for the First time

When your dog gets her period for the first time, it can be an overwhelming experience for both you and your pet. However, with proper guidance and care, you can help your furry friend get through this period with ease. Here are some tips on what to do when your dog gets her period for the first time:

  1. Monitor her behavior – During her first period, your dog’s behavior may change. She may become more restless, vocal, or even aggressive. It’s important to keep an eye on her behavior and make sure that she’s comfortable.
  2. Keep her clean – Your dog will experience a discharge during her heat cycle, which can be messy and attract other male dogs. You can keep her clean by wiping her with a damp cloth several times a day. You can also use doggy diapers to help contain the discharge.
  3. Prevent unwanted pregnancies – If you don’t want your dog to become pregnant, keep her away from male dogs. Make sure to supervise her closely when you take her outside. You can also consider getting her spayed, which will prevent her from going into heat and eliminate the risk of unwanted pregnancies.
  4. Maintain her routine – It’s essential to keep your dog’s routine as normal as possible during her heat cycle. Continue to feed her the same food, take her for walks, and play with her. However, you may need to limit her outdoor activities to avoid attracting male dogs.
  5. Seek veterinary care – If your dog experiences any unusual symptoms during her heat cycle, such as excessive bleeding or lethargy, seek veterinary care immediately. Your vet can provide guidance on how to care for your dog during this time.
what do you do when your dog gets her period at first time

Tips on Monitoring her Behavior and Keeping her Clean

Monitoring her behavior:

  • Keep a close eye on your dog’s behavior during this time. Look for signs of discomfort, such as excessive whining, pacing, or licking her genital area.
  • If your dog seems agitated or restless, try to provide her with a quiet and comfortable space to rest.
  • Consider distracting your dog with interactive toys or puzzles to help keep her mind occupied.
  • If you have a male dog at home, separate them during this time to avoid unwanted mating.

Keeping her clean:

  • Use a damp cloth or dog-friendly wipes to clean your dog’s genital area several times a day. Avoid using harsh soaps or shampoos, as they can irritate your dog’s skin.
  • If your dog is receptive to wearing them, doggy diapers can be a helpful option for containing the discharge.
  • Use a clean and comfortable dog bed or crate to help keep your dog clean and comfortable.
  • Avoid bathing your dog during her heat cycle, as it can disrupt her hormonal balance and increase the risk of infection.
what do you do when your dog gets her period at first time

So, What Do you do when your Dog Gets her Period at the First Time

In conclusion, caring for a dog during her first period can be a challenging experience, but with proper care and attention, you can help your furry friend stay healthy and comfortable. It’s important to monitor your dog’s behavior, keep her clean, prevent unwanted pregnancies, maintain her routine, and seek veterinary care if necessary. By following these tips and staying patient and loving with your pet, you can help her get through this time with ease. Remember to consult with your veterinarian for any concerns or questions you may have, as they can provide expert advice and guidance.

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Dr. Jamie Anderson
Dr. Jamie Anderson is a veterinarian with over a decade of experience in the field. She has worked at several extensive animal facilities and has been involved in various specializations, including general practice, emergency medicine, and surgery. She received her bachelor's degree in zoology from the University of Texas at Austin, followed by an M.D. from Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine in 2003. She completed her residency training in small animal medicine at the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Veterinary Medicine in 2006. During that time, she also served as an adjunct professor teaching veterinary students how to manage emergencies related to animals' health issues and behaviors in real-life situations throughout their careers as veterinarians. As part of her university work, she also researched topics such as canine behavior problems and dog-human communication behaviors. Today Dr. Jamie continues to conduct research related to canine behavior problems and dog-human communication behaviors while also providing care for individual animals that have behavioral or health issues.