Sudden personality changes in dogs in estrus

Generally, pet dogs start their first estrus around eight months old. The most common cause of estrus is abnormal dog behavior. Its main manifestations are: Behavioral changes, increased excitability, increased activity, irritability, loud barking, bright eyes; vulva swelling, flushing, and red mucus with blood; decreased appetite, frequent urination, raised tail and back, and like to be close to male dogs, Often climbs over other dogs, etc. Each estrus lasts about 5 to 12 days, with an average of 9 days, and a few can last up to 21 days. If pregnancy is not achieved, the second estrus will start after a certain interval. The time between two estruses is often affected by the age, physique, climate, feeding and other factors of the female dog. Usually the period from the first estrus to the next estrus is called estrus.

What are the symptoms of dogs in estrus?

During estrus, under the influence of nerves and hormones, the female dog’s mental state and reproductive organs undergo complex changes. The estrus period can be divided into four stages:

Before estrus

The preparation period for estrus is about 7 to 10 days. The reproductive system begins to prepare for ovulation. The eggs are close to maturity and the reproductive tract epithelium begins to proliferate. Gland activity begins to increase, secretions increase, the vulva is congested, the vagina is swollen, flushed and moist, and the outer membrane is sticky with mixed blood. Males sniff often, but bitches are reluctant to mate.

Estrus

It is the period when the signs of estrus are most obvious and mating is accepted, lasting about 6 to 14 days. The vulva continues to swell and soften, the blood flowing out becomes lighter in color, and the bleeding decreases or stops. Ovulation begins 2 to 3 days after the female dog is in estrus, that is, on the 12th to 13th day after bleeding occurs. At this time, the female dog takes the initiative to approach the male dog. When the male dog climbs over, she actively lowers her waist, turns her butt towards the male dog, tilts her tail to one side, and opens her vulva to accept mating.

Late estrus

The swelling of the vulva subsides, gradually returns to normal, the temperament becomes quiet, and male dogs are not allowed to approach. Generally, it lasts for 2 months, and then enters the anestrus period. If pregnant, it enters the pregnancy period.

Aestrus

The reproductive organs enter a state of inactivity, usually for about three months, and then enter the next proestrus.

In fact, dogs do not necessarily have to mate when they are in estrus, especially when they are in estrus for the first time. They must be very careful not to mate, otherwise they are prone to dystocia. If the owner decides not to upgrade the dog in the first place, he should disinfect the dog after the first heat.