The full cycle (including Anestrus) usually spans 6 months (180 days).
Understanding the Cycle
The canine heat cycle has four stages. Proestrus (bleeding/swelling) lasts about 9 days, followed by Estrus (fertile stage) where the female accepts mating. Most dogs cycle every 6 months.
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Pro Tips
Small dogs can have their first heat as early as 6 months.
Giant breeds may wait until 18-24 months for their first cycle.
Dogs do not go through menopause; they can cycle for life.
A 'silent heat' occurs without obvious external bleeding.
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Fun Facts
"The Basenji breed typically only cycles once a year, usually in the autumn."
"During a 'tie', dogs are physically locked for 15-30 minutes; do NOT try to separate them as it causes injury."
"A female dog's pheromones during heat can be detected by an intact male from up to 3 miles away."
"If you aren't breeding, the 'Estrus' phase is the highest risk time for accidental pregnancy."
"Hormone testing (specifically progesterone levels) via a vet is the only 100% accurate way to predict the exact ovulation day."
