Do dogs have a menopause? Facts about canine fertility

The vast majority of dogs in the UK today are spayed and neutered as standard unless they are intended for breeding. When female dogs (bitches) are spayed, the procedure typically involves a total hysterectomy, removing the ovaries. This surgical intervention makes reproduction physically impossible and immediately stops heat cycles, as there are no eggs to be released for fertilisation.

For unspayed female dogs, heat cycles—also called seasons or oestrus—occur generally one to two times per year. During these times, bitches are fertile and receptive to mating. This leads to the common question: do dogs experience a natural menopause where heat cycles cease, along with changes seen in humans?

Let's explore the facts about canine fertility and ageing.

What is menopause, and do dogs undergo it?

Menopause is defined as the permanent end of an animal’s fertility cycle, specifically in species with regular fertile periods governed by ovulation—the release of an egg from the ovary.

In human females, fertility cycles are typically monthly, resulting in a menstruation cycle when pregnancy does not occur. Menopause is the natural cessation of these fertility cycles, usually occurring around ages 45 to 55, marking the end of reproductive ability and accompanied by physical and hormonal changes that can last months or years.

In contrast, female dogs have longer reproductive cycles, usually twice per year or sometimes even less frequently. Their oestrus phase marks their fertile window; unlike human menstruation, dogs do not shed the womb lining monthly.

Because of these differences in reproductive biology, dogs do not experience menopause in the human sense.

Do dogs have a menopause?

No, female dogs do not undergo menopause like human females. Their fertility declines with age, but there is no defined end to their heat cycles or fertility.

Bitches often have a peak fertile period during full adulthood—usually starting around two years of age, with some large breeds maturing later, up to five years old. After this peak, fertility gradually declines with age, making conception less likely, and the risk of complications in pregnancy and birth higher.

Even elderly female dogs can continue to have heat cycles, albeit often irregular and less predictable, and can theoretically conceive at any age if they enter heat. However, natural fertility decline is a gradual, lifelong process rather than a sudden menopausal event.

Because older pregnancies carry higher health risks for both mother and pups, responsible breeders or owners typically spay bitches once their breeding career is finished. Spaying not only prevents unwanted litters but also reduces risks of ovarian and uterine diseases, including cancers.

Surgical spaying in mature adult dogs around 5-7 years old does not usually pose greater risks, but in older or senior dogs, surgical risks increase. Therefore, it is advisable to spay bitches soon after they finish breeding, promoting their long-term health and wellbeing.

For dog owners who do not intend to breed their female dog at any age, spaying as early as possible is a kind and responsible choice. This prevents heat cycles and associated challenges, promoting easier care and reducing health risks.

How do heat cycles change as female dogs age?

While unspayed female dogs continue to experience heat cycles throughout their lives, the frequency and regularity of these cycles tend to change with age. Younger adult bitches often come into season roughly twice per year, with cycles approximately six months apart.

As female dogs age, the intervals between heat cycles may become longer, less regular, and the signs of oestrus less obvious. This reflects declining fertility rather than a true reproductive shutdown. In some older dogs, heat cycles may be erratic, but they do not stop naturally unless intervened by spaying or health issues.

What are the health risks of pregnancy in older bitches?

Pregnancy in older female dogs (commonly over six years) carries increased medical risks. These include higher chances of uterine disorders, smaller litter size often with single-puppy pregnancies, and greater likelihood of difficult or prolonged labour (dystocia). Such complications may require veterinary assistance or professional interventions like cesarean sections.

Gestational metabolic issues, such as gestational toxemia linked to energy imbalances, can affect older bitches, especially with larger litters. Because of these risks, many vets advise against breeding bitches beyond six years of age to safeguard their health and that of their offspring.

When should I spay my female dog to ensure her health?

If you do not intend to breed your female dog, spaying her at a young adult age—typically before her first or second heat—is often recommended by vets to prevent health issues, unwanted pregnancies, and behavioural changes associated with the heat cycle.

For dogs used in responsible breeding, spaying is advised soon after completing their breeding career to minimise surgical risks and reduce the chance of late mis-mating. Spaying prevents ovarian cancers and uterine infections and offers protection from some reproductive diseases.

Please consult your vet about the best timing for spaying tailored to your dog’s breed, age, health status, and reproductive history.

Conclusion

In summary, dogs do not have a menopause like humans. Female dogs continue to experience heat cycles throughout their lives, though with declining fertility and irregularity as they grow older. Older pregnancies carry higher health risks, making spaying a responsible and health-protective choice when breeding ends or is not planned.

Understanding your dog’s reproductive cycle helps in providing compassionate care and making informed decisions about spaying to enhance quality of life. Consult your vet for personalised advice on reproductive health and surgery timing.