Have you ever asked yourself the question, “Do dogs have period cramps?” Same as we do, our pets undergo particular feelings in relation to the processes that they experience when they are in heat. The effects range from mood swings to physical discomfort, and they might resemble us in unexpected ways.
You might be curious about the same as well—how long do dog periods last and how to help your dog feel better?
Let’s discuss how you can find out that your dog has period cramps, gain some advice on how to alleviate them, and delve deeper into the correlation between your dog’s cycle and your own.
The Basics: Do Dogs Have Period Cramps?
First off, let’s clarify a common misconception: Although mammalian females, including dogs, do not have a menstrual cycle as human beings do, they come through a cycle referred to as heat or estrus. This one has its own difficulties with which some may experience physical and finally emotional signals that can cause some sort of discomfort.
Just think how you would feel if you had a distended belly and low energy levels—it is the same thing with your dog!
Well, what are the signs that indicate a dog is experiencing period cramps? Some signs to look out for include:
Restlessness: Your dog could be walking in circles, unable to relax, or just doesn’t look well.
Mood Swings: If she’s usually playful and loving but now appears to be moody or irritable, she is likely to be uncomfortable.
Licking or Grooming: Dogs may lick their genital area more often at this time or suddenly cease grooming themselves altogether.
Appetite Changes: Some puppies will exhibit a decreased appetite, while others might start demanding more of those treats or even foods.
Whimpering: You will sometimes realize that your puppy is whimpering or whimpering as if in pain.
How Long Does a Dog’s Period Last?
Having discussed the symptoms, the next question, having been asked, is: How long does the dog’s period last? A dog typically goes into heat every six months on average, though this could vary based on breed, age, and overall health. The actual bleeding lasts for approximately 7 to 10 days when the dog is in heat. Nevertheless, the whole heat cycle takes about 2-3 weeks, with days before and after the days of bleeding.
This information should help you be in better control with the demands that your dog would require during this phase. You have to pay much attention to her temper and actions during the necessary time, because some dogs are gloomier and more plankey on some days.
How to Ease the Discomfort of Period Cramps in Dogs
If you think your dog is undergoing period cramps, there are some remedies you can apply to relieve her of the discomfort:
Comfort and Calm
It would be advisable to ensure she gets a comfortable, less noisy atmosphere to relax in. At times, just preparing a comfortable space where she can go and be away from everybody else can change her mood dramatically. Stroking or cuddling her also works, as does making her understand that there is no harm in the near occurrences.
Warm Compress
Like us, dogs may also find something warm to be of comfort to them once in a while. You may also wish to try applying a hot towel about a towel warmer to her belly, as this will help her. Put a towel around a hot water bottle and let her have some time with some quiet play.
Gentle Exercise
Of course, she may not want to run a marathon, but even a gentle walk or some playtime will help to distract her from the discomfort and release a feel-good hormone called endorphin.
Pain Relief
It is important to discuss any medication with your vet before giving your dog any medicine. They could advise pain relief for dogs with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, as they cause fewer cramps and pains to the animals.
Diet Adjustments
Both emotional and physical symptoms can be minimized through adjustments in a dog’s diet by some owners during this time. It may cross her mind to include more fiber in foods or probiotics to help her digestion, especially when she is on her period.
Finding the Right Solutions
Moreover, the point has to be kept in mind that all dogs will not experience the same thing during the period of heat. It may be the same as how you sometimes feel differently or get symptoms in different months, so can your dogs get cycles in different ways. What’s most important is not to miss her cue and be able to help her when she needs it.
If her symptoms appear severe, if they linger for more than a couple of days, or if she requires help and you can tell she is in pain, call your veterinarian. They can also offer advice or a solution to her case in accordance with her needs.
In Conclusion: Pawsitively Relatable
Although you could think it is a rather strange attempt to relate at all to the lives of animals, it is an easily recognizable topic that can make the relationship between a person and their pet closer. As much as one can appreciate the common symptoms of dog period cramps and the measures to apply to ease the discomfort, the positive impacts on the dogs will embrace a lot of aspects and areas in their lives with a lot of comfort. Still, our dogs are becoming members of our families, so supporting them in their difficulties makes perfect sense.
Thus, next time you find yourself pondering over your dog’s cycle, do not walk off feeling you have seen just a mere pet; be aware you have had an interaction with a living creature who, just like you, has her own ways of handling life’s highs and lows. This means, let us keep our dogs’ tails wagging, even on days that are not so great!
