How to Care for Your Dog in Heat

Pup parents, we get it—your dog’s heat cycle isn’t fun for her—or for you. Until you can get your girl spayed, we've got some important info in keeping her comfy and you, well, less stressed.  

The canine heat cycle (estrus cycle) consists of a few stages: a mash-up of bleeding, behavioral changes, and high fertility. While your vet can provide you with medical advice during this time, we can help you feel less stressed and keep your girl comfy. 

Heat cycle hacks

So, your dog's in the mood for love, and it's a bit messy for everyone. Keep calm—we’ve got your game plan.

Diapers aren’t just for human babies

The first sign of your dog’s heat cycle is blood, whether it’s on her bed or you’re noticing it around the house. Hit up your local pet store for cute doggy diapers or a body suit to help her feel more comfortable—and to keep your house cleaner.

Set up a cozy spot with her favorite blankie

Pop it wherever she loves to snuggle, and by the end of the cycle, you'll only need one blanket in the laundry—winning!

Clean up crew on deck

Quick cleanups are your MVP. Keep disposable wipes on hand for rapid swipes. Carpets looking a bit rough? Investing in a good, compact carpet cleaner is your best bet. Even once your dog is spayed, it’s always good to have it on hand in case of accidents.

Comfort squad—assemble

Your pup could be feeling confused during her hormonal rollercoaster and might need a bit more nurturing. She may also be prowling around the house—and yowling. Yikes. Try and keep her as comfortable as possible. Consult your vet if you think she may be in a lot of pain or if she's acting extra uncomfortable or upset.

Let’s snuggle

Extra cuddles are a must. Consider a lap desk for multitasking. You work, and she can curl up by you.

Treat her to her favorite snack (no chocolate)

Give your lady some of her favorite treats or offer a chew-resistant toy for a sense of security. It's like doggy therapy, minus the couch. (And no hourly pay rate!)

Kindness is key

Accidents happen, and she’s really going through it. No scolding allowed. Just reassure her calmly while you work your cleaning magic.

VIP (Very Important Potty)

Ensure good eats, plenty of water, and extra potty breaks. A lot is going on down there, and she might need to do her business more often.

A litter of puppies sounds super cute—but let’s be real for a sec

Sit down for a minute, we need to have “the talk”—how you can help prevent pregnancy until your girl can get spayed.

Male dog alert

Male dogs on the prowl? Keep a close eye during outside breaks. And if you have your own four-legged Casanova, separate them to prevent any unexpected puppy surprises.

Aggressive anticipation

Male dogs can get a bit intense when a lady's in heat. Be extra vigilant during walks and doggy park visits.

What next?

The bleeding might stop, but the cycle isn't over. Stay on the lookout for changes in your dog's health. If anything seems off, vet up!

There are so many benefits to spaying your dog

Besides preventing litters of puppies, spaying your dog has several health benefits. 

1. In many cases, it can help your pup live a longer, happier, healthier life. Dogs in heat can become escape artists who roam, get into fights, and are at risk of accidents with cars or other animals.

2. Spaying helps reduce the risk of uterine infections and decreases the chances of mammary tumors.

3. Often, it ensures your dog is less stressed. A heat cycle lasts four to five days—every three weeks—during breeding season.

4. Preventing pregnancy means you avoid contributing to the homeless population of dogs and helps keep shelters from being overcrowded.

If you’re curious about when the best time to spay your dog is, it’s generally before their first heat cycle. Sometimes this isn’t possible, so be sure to chat with your vet about when would be best for your dog. It really all depends on their breed, age, and overall health.

Pet insurance can help

There’s a whole slew of financial perks when it comes to spaying or neutering your pet. Complications from pregnancy, caring for new puppies—all of this can add up, especially when you account for vet bills. The upfront cost of a spay/neuter procedure could potentially save you thousands down the road. It’s an investment worth making.

Figo can help when it comes to your dog’s health and getting money back for a spay or neuter procedure, too. You can level up your policy and pet parent game by adding on our Wellness Powerup. Besides reimbursing a set amount towards eligible spay and neuter procedures, this upgrade may also help with wellness exams, vaccines, and so many things your dog needs to stay healthy and prevent disease.

We’re always here to help. If you want more info, reach out to our team of experts by email at support@figopetinsurance.com or by phone at (844) 738-3446.

Editor’s Note: Is spaying and neutering pets helpful or harmful to their health? Here’s what you need to know about spaying or neutering your dog—from benefits to myths and post-surgical expectations.

Aimee Ellis is a New Jersey native living in Richmond, Virginia with her husband and crew of four cats. When she isn't writing for Figo, you can find her drinking seltzer, crocheting, and watching reality TV.