Expert: Jannie Balliett - 7/14/2008

Question
Hi. my name is gabi i just wanted to know about how long after they stop spotting can you still bread them?
so how long are they still in heat after they stop spotting?

Answer
12-21 days depending. Each breed and female is different and each cycle can be different from the one before or next one.

Here's a quick study of their cycle:

(http://vetmedicine.about.com/od/pregnancybirthindogs/f/k9_estrus.htm)

There are various stages of the cycle. During the actual bleeding, she will not accept a male, although he will try.


Answer(s): There are four stages to the canine estrus cycle:

     Proestrus: vaginal discharge, males attracted to females, females unwilling to mate. Length: 4-20 days.
     Estrus: swollen vulva, yellowish vaginal discharge, mating occurs during this phase. Length: 5-13 days.
     Metestrus (or Diestrus): period after estrus or mating. Length: 60-90 days. If pregnant, pregnancy lasts between 60-64 days in the dog.
     Anestrus: period of inactivity (sexual and hormonal) between estrus phases. Length: 2-3 months.

Depending on the stage she is in, pregnancy can occur-- to be sure to stop the mating/pregnancy-- keep them separated and a belly band is advisable to put on him, and a seasonal pantie on her. The pantie not only uses mini-pads for her discharge, but prevents him from entering her, and a belly band around his waist and penis prevents him as well.

Do not breed your female until she is at least 2 years old. Be prepared to stay up almost all night with newborn puppies until they are weened and sold.