That time and beyond
PMT: Premenstrual tension
Do canines suffer from the above? As they don’t menstruate, the simple answer is no. Well technically.
They do, however, undergo an estrus cycle similar to humans and as such a hormone change occurs which can affect the dog’s behaviour.
This cycle can be broken down into phases.
Proestrus
The first “heat” generally occurs between 6 months and one year of age. However, it can start as early as four months and, in very large dogs, may not arrive until the dog is around two years old.
This starts with a swelling of the vulva and a bloody discharge, this lasts approximately one week, and during this period, the female refuses any attempt to mate, will tuck her tail between her legs, sit without moving and can be quite aggressive to potential suitors.
Estrus
This is the time that our lady dog welcomes the males and displays a tendency to sway her tail to one side, indicating her willingness to accept the attention of a male dog an offer the male finds irresistible. This lasts approximately 7-10 days
Diestrus
This is when following her cycle, she is no longer attractive to the males, and they, in turn, have no interest. Vaginal bleeding re-commences and lasts for a few days before tapering off.
Anestrus is the period of time that follows the “heat” and lasts around one to six months. For owners, generally, this is a time cycle that is of no interest as there are no outward signs and is the period when the ovaries become inactive.
Responsible people have their dogs neutered and therefore have little or no experience of the problems connected to a dogs estrus cycle, but professional dog breeders do see these symptoms, which vary but can include:
- Aggressive behaviour, even from the most benign dog.
- Nervousness, again this can come from the most confident of dogs.
- Changes in the desire for food usually a loss of appetite, but in rare cases, the appetite will increase.
- Craving affection from humans, being more clingy.
- Vomiting.
- Increased urination, particularly just before the start of the season.
Yet again more compelling reasons to neuter.
While we are on this subject, let’s just mention…
The Menopause.
As dogs are able to reproduce even when they are seniors, they do not have a menopause.
It should be noted that as a dog gets older, the time span between seasons may get longer. Also, be aware that if the seasons stop altogether, then it is advisable to seek veterinary advice.
Just because they can reproduce it doesn’t mean they should. Elderly dogs giving birth are more likely to suffer a difficult pregnancy, smaller litters, higher mortality rates and are at greater risk of the potentially fatal condition pyometra.
I am aware that to my regular readers, it will sound like I take every opportunity to press the case for neutering. Yes, it’s true, and I make no apologies for doing so and here is another example of the distress we cause by not neutering. It wouldn’t be so bad if it were only the owners that suffered, but sadly the victims are our canine companions who continue to suffer extreme anxiety and have to contend with unnecessary mammary tumours and the aforementioned highly dangerous pyometra. On the subject of mammary tumours, it is a little know fact that neutering a female early, before her first heat, reduces the chance of these tumours appearing to less than 1%.
I don’t judge others. I don’t hate. I don’t discriminate. I don’t care about money. I don’t hold grudges. I DO know how to love unconditionally and that’s all I want in return.
I am a “fur-ever” friend.’
Anon