On what day of heat can a dog be bred?

Mating is performed if the dog is intended to produce offspring. If the animal is not intended for breeding, veterinarians recommend spaying it. The belief that mating female dogs is beneficial for their health is unfounded. Mating occurs without problems in most cases, as it is facilitated by the animals' unconditioned reflexes. However, dog owners should be aware of the appropriate age and estrus period for mating.

Physiology and phases of estrus

Estrus is the period when the bitch's body produces hormones that affect the reproductive system: blood flow to the uterus, vagina, and external genitalia increases, and bloody discharge appears from the genital loop.

Domestic dogs usually have two such periods per year, their frequency depending on the individual characteristics of the animal, nutrition, growing conditions and other conditions.

The estrus period in dogs is usually divided into:

• Proestrus. Physiologically, the dog is already ready for mating; she can flirt with males, but does not yet allow them to mate.
• Estrus (sexual heat). This is the fertile stage, during which ovulation occurs (the egg is released from the ovary into the fallopian tube). The female dog assumes a typical mating posture—arching her back, crouching low, and holding her tail to the side. She does not refuse the male's request for mating and readily accepts it.
• Metestrus (inhibition phase).Typical for all female dogs, regardless of whether she is pregnant or not.
• Anestrus (the period of inhibition of ovarian function). It lasts approximately 90-130 days, until the next estrus begins.

Recommended mating dates

Female dogs typically enter their first heat between 9 and 12 months of age. However, since physiological maturity in dogs of either sex occurs between 18 months and 2 years of age, mating should not occur before this age. This can negatively impact both the dog's health and the viability of any offspring. It is not recommended to breed dogs of "retirement" age: male dogs over 6 years of age have significantly lower sperm activity and quality, and older female dogs have a more difficult time coping with pregnancy and birth.

Approximately 60% of dogs enter the fertile phase (estrus) between days 9 and 15 of estrus (the second and third day of the heat cycle). It is recommended to mate a female dog during this period. To determine the optimal time for mating more accurately, a blood test to measure progesterone levels or a vaginal swab can be performed.

Only healthy animals should be allowed to mate. Before mating, both the female and male must be examined by a veterinarian and treated for worms and ectoparasites. To ensure healthy offspring, stud dogs must be provided with a balanced diet.

How to prepare a dog for mating

Dogs should not be fed before mating. It's best to introduce them during a walk together, as mating often occurs during this time, so the owners should simply avoid interfering with the process. For mating, it's customary to bring the female to the male; otherwise, the female may become aggressive, defending her territory, and the male may become unsure of himself in the unfamiliar surroundings.

The dog in front mating It is recommended to bathe the dog, or alternatively, thoroughly wash the genitals. If the dog is a long-haired breed, the external genital area can be shaved. A female dog should not be bathed before mating, to avoid removing the scent that attracts the male. If necessary, she can be bathed 4-5 days before the expected mating.

Read how often you can bathe a dog. in the article

How does mating take place?

The mating process should take place in a calm atmosphere, so care should be taken to ensure there are no unwanted onlookers or loud noises. After the dogs have become accustomed to the new environment and sniffed each other a few times, the male dog mounts, inserting his penis into the female's vagina. During particularly vigorous thrusts, the owner can gently press the male's body against the female's body to prevent his penis from slipping.

After ejaculation, the male's movements cease, but the dogs may remain locked in a "lock" for some time due to the female's vaginal muscles compressing the male's penis. The male may also change his body position and position himself with his rear facing the female. The mating period can last from several minutes to an hour. After insemination, signs of estrus in the female usually disappear, but experts recommend a repeat test mating a few days later to ensure the result.

Read also:

• Why do dogs stick together when mating?
• DIY Dog Panties for Dogs in Heat
• Can you take a dog into bed?