How Do Female Dogs React to Other Females in Heat?

When unspayed female dogs come into season, which typically happens once or twice a year, they undergo hormonal changes that go beyond simply being receptive to mating. These changes can affect their behaviour, causing irritability, personality shifts, and difficulties living alongside other dogs.

If you have two or more unspayed bitches living together, managing their behaviour during a season can become complicated. It is common for them to come into season at around the same time, which intensifies the challenges and can create competition between them.

During a season, a female dog's attention is focused on finding a mate, which can heighten competition, especially when several females are in season at the same time. This increased tension can lead to unusual behaviour such as aggression, even between dogs that normally get along well.

This article explains how to manage your dogs during a season, whether keeping them separated is advisable, and how spaying can help reduce season-related difficulties.

1. Recognising the possibility of aggression

Not all unspayed bitches show aggression during a season, but it is common for some to become more defensive, snappy, or dominant. This is especially noticeable when two bitches are in season simultaneously, as they may view each other as rivals for attention or access to males.

Watch closely for early signs of irritability or aggression between your dogs. If you notice any, the safest course is to keep them separated during the cycle to prevent injury or fights.

2. Managing mood changes and anxiety

The hormonal fluctuations of a season can cause mood swings as well as aggression. Many bitches become clingier, more anxious, or less responsive to commands during this period. The presence of another female in season can worsen these feelings even in the absence of outright aggression.

Providing separate spaces for each dog and keeping routines as stable as possible helps reduce anxiety levels. Separating them during a season can also improve their comfort and reduce stress.

3. Keeping unspayed bitches away from entire males

It is essential to keep bitches in season away from entire males to prevent unwanted pregnancies. Males can detect a female in season from considerable distances and may become persistent or aggressive in their attempts to reach her.

The presence of males can also increase competition and tension between bitches in season, raising the likelihood of aggressive behaviour. If you have entire males, keep them well separated from any bitches throughout the entire season period.

4. Considering spaying for long-term benefits

If you do not plan to breed your dog, spaying is a responsible decision. The procedure not only prevents unwanted litters but also stabilises hormone levels. Many common season-related problems such as sharp mood swings, aggression, or the urge to escape and find a mate can be reduced or eliminated.

Spaying contributes to better health outcomes and can significantly improve the quality of life for your dogs and make managing multiple animals much easier.

When do bitches come into season?

Most unspayed bitches come into season approximately twice a year, roughly every six months, with each season lasting around two to three weeks. Bitches typically begin their seasons between six months and one year of age, though this varies by breed and individual development. Smaller breeds may cycle more frequently, while larger breeds often come into season just once a year.

How long does a season last?

A season generally lasts between two and three weeks, though the fertile period is typically five to nine days within that window. During a season, behaviour and hormone levels change, which accounts for shifts in mood, appetite, and interaction with other dogs.

When should you keep unspayed bitches separated?

Unspayed bitches in season should be kept apart if they show signs of aggression or stress, or if multiple bitches are in season at the same time, to reduce the risk of fights and anxiety. If your dogs normally get along well outside of season but become irritable or nervous during the cycle, temporary separation during those weeks is advisable. Some dogs adapt well and may not require separation, but close monitoring and prioritising the safety and wellbeing of all animals is essential.

Conclusion: Care and responsibility

Managing unspayed bitches during a season requires careful attention and, at times, temporary separation to ensure the safety and comfort of all animals involved. If you have several bitches, additional vigilance is needed to prevent fights or excessive stress.

Consider spaying if you do not plan to breed your dogs. It is a responsible option that prevents many season-related problems and supports the health and wellbeing of your pets. Always consult your vet for advice on the best care for your individual dogs.