The heat cycle is also known as the estrus cycle. The duration and age that female dogs come into Estrus can depend on the breed of dog that you own and on each individual dog (as each dog is different). The same applies to the regularity of the female dog period. It can take up to two years for a female dog to develop regular cycles. The dog heat cycle can vary dramatically. Generally this dog heat cycle bleeding appears 2 times per year, once every 6 months. Normally, female dogs are in heat twice a year, for a period of two to three weeks. Younger and older dogs tend to have a more irregular heat cycle, and often the size of your dog can affect how often they go into heat. If the dog gets pregnant during her heat cycle, this stage lasts until the birth of the puppies, which is around 60 days. The time it takes for a dog’s first heat cycle can vary greatly depending on their size and even their breed, and while there’s generally nothing to worry about, there are times when a trip to the vet might be in order. It occurs mostly at the beginning of spring or the fall. Many times the onset of puberty, and the length of the estrus cycle depends on the breed and size of the dog. When a dog reaches puberty, that's when she begins her estrus (or heat) cycle. When young dogs first begin to cycle, it is normal for their cycles to be somewhat irregular. Dogs that aren't spayed go into heat about every six months. It can last from 60-90 days and the dog is no longer fertile. During a heat cycle, a female dog that has not been spayed will … Keep in mind that this period differs from dog to dog, and can depend on age or food. Small breed dogs may cycle three times per year, while giant breed dogs may only cycle once every 12 months. Dogs go into heat on average twice a year, but some dogs may go into heat three times and many larger breeds only once annually. The heat period will occur approximately every 6 months or twice a year. A dog's heat cycle, also known as the estrus cycle, occurs for most dogs twice per year. Most female dogs will have have their first periods irregularly, but the cycle tends to normalize in the first two years. Outside of the heat cycle, a female dog cannot reproduce. Larger dogs may cycle only once per year. Most dogs come into heat twice per year, or about every six months, although the interval can vary between breeds and from dog to dog. The period that your dog will be in heat can vary but will normally last from approximately 12 to 21 days. A Dog’s First Heat Cycle Isn’t an Exact Science. Males generally will not be interested in mating with a dog which is not in heat. 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