How Long Does A Golden Retriever Stay In Heat?
Your female golden retriever will start their first cycle at about 1 year of age. Just like with humans, this time span can vary. Some golden retrievers may get their first heat as early as 9 or 10 months, while others may not get their first until 14 to 15 months.
A golden retriever heat cycle typically lasts between 2 and 4 weeks. Depending on your dog, since no two dogs are the same, it could be slightly shorter or longer.
Signs My Golden Is Going Into Heat
There are obvious signs that your dog is about to start its heat cycle. The most common things to look for are:
- Excessive Licking of the Genitals
- Swollen Vulva
- Discharge
- Increased Alertness
- Mounting
- Nesting Behavior
If your golden retriever starts showing any of these signs, it may soon go into its heat cycle.
What Are The Heat Cycle Stages
There are four stages in your dog’s heat cycle. Below we will compare all four.
Stage 1
Stage one can last for up to 20 days, while most only last around 10. This stage is called the proestrus stage. During this stage, your female will begin behaving differently. She may snap at male dogs, but be more affectionate with you. Her body is changing and she will need an adjustment period.
Your female golden will have noticeable swelling to her vulva and produce more pheromones. These pheromones will attract male dogs who want to mate. If this is your puppy’s first heat cycle, do not breed her. Wait until at least her second heat cycle.
During this stage, your female golden retriever will have a discharge that will eventually turn into blood. They may begin excessively grooming themselves during this time.
Stage 2
Stage 2 is called the estrus stage, this part of the cycle is when your dog is most fertile. It will last for about one week, or possibly two weeks. Your female will continue to bleed during this time.
Your golden retriever will want to breed during this stage, she may move her tail side to side or whine. This is normal behavior, but if you do not want to breed her, keep her away from any male dogs.
Stage 3
The diestrus stage begins when your female golden retriever is no longer fertile, it can last up to three months. There will be no more discharge and she will no longer be interested in mating. She may show aggression towards any male that approaches her.
Stage 4
The last stage in your dog’s cycle is called the anestrus. Your female’s body goes back to normal and she no longer emits pheromones. This stage lasts about 3 months. Once it is complete the heat cycle restarts from the beginning.