Dog Pregnancy & Breeding Blog

Practical, vet-referenced guides for dog owners and small breeders: heat cycles, pregnancy week by week, whelping, and caring for newborn puppies.

What is a silent heat in dogs? A silent heat is a heat cycle in which a dog ovulates but shows few…

When do dogs have their first heat? A dog’s first heat usually arrives between 6 and 24 months of age (Cornell University…

The short answer: 5 to 9 days A female dog will usually let a male mount her for 5 to 9 days.…

When is the best time to breed a dog? The best time to breed a dog is 2 to 4 days after…

What are the signs a dog is in heat? The first signs a dog is in heat are usually a swollen vulva…

The short answer: about twice a year Most dogs go into heat about twice a year, on average every 5 to 11…

What are the four stages of a dog’s heat cycle? A dog’s heat cycle has four stages: proestrus, estrus, diestrus, and anestrus.…

The short answer: 2 to 3 weeks A dog is usually in heat for 2 to 3 weeks. That is the visible…

Yes, a dog can get pregnant by two different dogs. A single litter can have puppies from different fathers. This is called…