Symptoms of Shih Tzu Estrus: Cycle Duration & English T

Part 1: The Characteristics of Sprocker's Estrus

When a Sprocker dog is in heat, their body and behavior undergo several distinct changes. Males may exhibit dominance, increased activity, irritability, barking, bright eyes, and a more frequent marking territory with urine. They may also show a tendency to fight. Females, on the other hand, may become excited and restless, with their vulva becoming red and swollen, appetite decreasing, arching their backs, and showing a preference for being close to males. If you notice a female Sprocker's bottom leaking red blood and bloodtinged mucus, it's a clear sign that she's in heat. During estrus, females may experience an increase in urination, vaginal congestion, the secretion of mucus, and a continuous flow of blood, which typically stops after about 10 days. Following this, the estrus phase is marked by the appearance of a faintly yellowishwhite fluid. The 12th to 13th day after the start of bleeding is considered the optimal time for mating and fertilization.

Part 2: The Estrous Cycle of Sprocker Dogs

Female Dogs: The estrous cycle for females is approximately every 6 months. The first estrus usually occurs between 6 to 10 months of age. After the estrus period ends, the female dog will refuse to mate with males until the next estrus cycle, which arrives 6 months later.

Male Dogs: Unlike females, male Sprockers do not have a fixed estrous cycle. After reaching sexual maturity at around 6 to 8 months, they are capable of mating at any time. They continuously emit pheromones that signal their readiness to mate, causing females in heat to be drawn to them.

Part 3: How Long Does a Sprocker's Fertility Last?

Sprockers can reproduce until they are about 8 years old. However, it is advisable to have them breed between the ages of 1.5 and 6 years. Young dogs may not have fully matured physically during their first estrus, so it's recommended that females consider mating and pregnancy only after their second estrus. Additionally, older dogs are at a higher risk of dystocia, so breeding before the age of 6 is safer for them. It's also important to note that very thin females are at a higher risk during pregnancy, so it's best for owners to ensure their dogs are in good health before considering breeding.

Tip from Oxygen Pet Doctor: For more information on dog estrus, click here to read about The Symptoms of Female Dog Estrus.