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When a female dog enters estrus, commonly known as being “in heat” or “in season”, it can create a stressful and chaotic environment in a multi dog household, particularly if you have an intact male (though neutered males can be just as annoying! There’s just no puppy risk). The potent pheromones released by the female trigger strong mating instincts in males, leading to a variety of unwanted behaviors like whining, pacing, shaking, marking, and escape attempts (to get TO the female generally).
This article (hopefully) equips you with the knowledge and strategies to effectively manage this situation and keep both your dogs calm and safe during this hormonal rollercoaster, without making any accidental puppies. We’ll delve into separation techniques like crate and rotate, explore calming activities, discuss potential aids, and provide additional management tips to ensure a smooth ride for everyone involved.
Understanding the Heat Cycle
Before diving into management strategies, let’s gain a basic understanding of the canine heat cycle. This cycle typically occurs every six to twelve months (unless you’re very unlucky – Pandora is averaging every 4 months 😭), with variations depending on breed and individual dog. It consists of four phases:
Proestrus: This initial phase, lasting approximately nine days (but up into the high twenties has been observed!), marks the beginning of the heat cycle. The female exhibits physical changes like vulval swelling and bloody discharge, but isn’t receptive to mating yet. Your male(s) will start acting like they have no brain around this time.
Estrus: This is the fertile window, lasting about five to nine days. The bloody discharge lightens, and the female likely becomes receptive to breeding. Her behavior may change, with increased interest in males and potentially becoming more playful or restless, or even more cuddly! Your male(s) will be absolute no-thoughts-just-hormones dummies during this period.
Diestrus: During this two(ish)-month phase, the female is no longer receptive to mating. Her body prepares for pregnancy or reabsorbs any unfertilized eggs. Your male(s) will finally start to calm down during the beginning of this phase. I personally do not allow my male near my bitch for at least a week minimum after signs that estrus has ended. It’s not worth the risk of unwanted puppies.
Anestrus: This resting phase lasts for the remaining period until the next heat cycle, typically about four to six months.
It’s important to note that while the bloody discharge might lessen during estrus, the male can still smell the female’s pheromones, and thus will still try to mate with her. It is more important than ever that you keep them separate during this time.
The Importance of Separation
The cornerstone of managing intact male and female dogs during heat is effective separation. This creates a physical barrier, preventing unwanted interactions and reducing stress for both animals. Here are some key separation techniques:
Crate and Rotate: This method involves having separate crates for each dog and only having one loose at a time. During the heat cycle, confine the female dog to her crate for designated periods throughout the day, allowing the male free roam of the house under supervision. After a set time, switch their positions so the male enters the “clean” crate, minimizing lingering female scent. It will be incredibly stressful for the male if he’s put back in her crate. Ideally, the crates will be in separate rooms entirely.
Separate Rooms: If crates aren’t an option, dedicate separate rooms for each dog. Utilize things like baby gates to create additional barriers (do not count on a baby gate to stop even a small or medium sized male!). Ensure each room has all the necessities (bed, water bowl, toys, etc) for their comfort during confinement.
Leash and Tether: For short-term separation within the same room, you can leash or tether the male dog to a secure location while the female enjoys some freedom. This allows supervised interaction but prevents unsupervised breeding attempts. Do not leave the two alone together with one loose, not even for a moment while you use the bathroom.
Remember: Management often FAILS. Have multiple protocols in place for this event. If one fails, you want a backup or three. Owning intact animals is a privilege that should be taken very seriously. Almost all “accidents” could have been prevented by simply trying even 10% of this article. True accidents do happen, but it’s most often negligence or ignorance (or a desire for puppies without backlash).
Calming Activities for the Male Dog(s)
While separation is crucial, it’s equally important to address the male dog’s pent up energy and frustration. Here are some calming activities to keep him occupied and distracted:
Increased Exercise: Regular walks, playtime with his favorite toys, and engaging training sessions provide an outlet for energy and mental stimulation. If you find he can’t focus on the property, try taking him to the park or somewhere else. Also consider a dog walker through Rover or Wag (Wag even has a monthly subscription service!) just to get your pup out of the house
Interactive Toys: Food puzzles and treat-dispensing toys keep him mentally challenged and offer a sense of accomplishment. He may be more willing to eat this way, as his appetite may be decreased during this time. Check out our article on enrichment feeders.
Chew Toys/Treats: Long-lasting chews like bully sticks or Himalayan chews provide a satisfying outlet for chewing and can help reduce anxiety. The same is true of toys he likes to chew on.
Scent Work: Engage your dog’s natural sniffing abilities by hiding treats around the house or playing scent games. You can even get free boxes through USPS and train them in scentwork!
Calming Music: Studies suggest classical music can have a calming effect on dogs. Play calming nature sounds or specially designed dog music in the background.
Calming TV: Did you know we’re affiliates with DOGTV? Its a cheap subscription service of TV specifically for dogs, and they have relaxation channels! We cannot recommend this enough!
Calming Scents: BE CAREFUL WITH ESSENTIAL OIL USE, DO NOT PUT IT ON THE ANIMAL. Lavender has calming properties, for example, and there are products out there for calming dogs specifically, and some especially for males during this time!
Pro Tip: Schedule these activities during times when the female is confined (or schedule them out of the house), minimizing the male’s exposure to her scent and further promoting his relaxation. If she’s getting her hormonal smells all over everything while he’s trying to relax, you’re going to be largely unsuccessful, especially as soon as he’s released where she was.
Additional Management Techniques
Beyond separation and calming activities, several techniques can further enhance your management plan:
Minimize Scent: While completely masking the female’s scent is impossible, you can minimize its impact. Wash her bedding, diapers (if any) and toys frequently, and consider using odor-neutralizing sprays (consult your vet for safe options). There are also other scents to help cover hers up.
Belly Bands and Diapers: Consider using a doggy diaper for the female to contain any discharge and further reduce scent, as well as save your furniture and floors (check out these SUPER cute diapers on Amazon). Consider belly bands like these for males to prevent them from marking and as a small failsafe should he accidentally get to the female. It won’t stop him for long, however, and should not be a primary method for keeping them apart.
Supplements: Consider calming or CBD supplements during this time. Consult your vet for recommendations if you are unsure. We are in the process of putting a supplements list together but do not have one ready yet. Nuleaf Naturals has everything from drops to chews, they’re our current go-to CBD supplier for dogs.
Seek Professional Help: If your dogs exhibit extreme anxiety or destructive behaviors, don’t be afraid to call your vet or your trainer (depending on the problem). Everyone needs care during this difficult time, and your pup may need some meds or extra attention to get through this.
Another note that rarely gets brought up. Your female may exhibit same sex aggression during her heat cycle, even if she hasn’t before. Keep an eye on her with other females.
