Is It Safe to Walk a Dog When She's in Season?
Owning a female dog that has not been spayed means dealing with her coming into season — a period that can be challenging for both you and your pet. If you do not plan to breed from your dog, having her spayed is highly recommended as it improves her health and reduces risks, including certain cancers.
However, if your dog is in season, you might be wondering whether it is safe to continue her daily walks, especially when there are other dogs nearby. For many urban dog owners, walks are essential not only for toileting but for physical and mental wellbeing. So yes, you can take your dog for a walk when she’s in season, but with important precautions.
1. Always Keep Your Dog on a Lead
Regardless of where you walk, your female dog should remain on a lead at all times while she is in season. This prevents her running off, since her hormones strongly draw male dogs, who can sense her scent from a distance. Even the most obedient dog might ignore commands during this hormonal surge, so leash control is essential to keep her safe and avoid unwanted mating.
2. Plan Your Walk Route Carefully
Select quieter routes where you are less likely to encounter other dogs, particularly unneutered males. Consider times like early morning or late evening for walks to minimise interactions. Be mindful that your dog’s urine and scent marks attract male dogs; avoid areas where this could pose a risk.
3. Avoid Busy Parks and Dog Off-Leads Areas
Busy parks where dogs are often off their leads are best avoided during your dog’s season. Loose male dogs may try to approach your dog, which could cause altercations or lead to accidental breeding. Even neutered dogs and bitches find new scents intriguing, so you may find a lot of excitement around your dog that could stress her.
4. Consider Using Scent-Masking Sprays
There are deodorant sprays specifically formulated for bitches in season designed to mask her scent. These can help reduce the attraction of males at a distance. Bear in mind, these sprays don’t completely hide all pheromones, especially where she urinates, but they can help when avoiding crowded areas is difficult.
5. Supervise Closely, Even in Your Garden
Male dogs can detect a female in season from afar and may try to jump fences or find ways into your garden. Always supervise your dog outdoors so she is safe and to prevent any unwelcome visitors. Secure fencing is key, and if you can, limit garden access during this time.
6. The Best Long-Term Solution: Spaying
Spaying your female dog not only eliminates the challenges of season but provides substantial health benefits. It stabilises her hormones, making her calmer and easier to manage, and lowers the risk of life-threatening conditions such as pyometra and mammary cancer. Consulting your vet about the best time to spay your dog is a responsible step towards her lifelong welfare.
Why Does This Matter?
Walking your dog during her season with the right precautions helps maintain her physical health and mental stimulation, which is vital. At the same time, it protects other dogs and avoids accidental litters. Responsible pet ownership involves being aware of these factors and taking sensible measures.
For more advice on finding reputable breeders or adopting a female dog, consider resources like the Kennel Club find a puppy service. This puts you in touch with responsible breeders adhering to high welfare standards.
In conclusion, walking your female dog while she is in season is perfectly acceptable when approached thoughtfully: always keep her on a lead, avoid busy areas, consider scent-masking options, and prioritise supervision. For her long-term happiness and health, spaying remains the best choice. Your care and attention during this time will ensure she remains a happy, healthy companion.
