Should unspayed female dogs be kept apart during season?

When unspayed female dogs come into season, typically once or twice a year, they experience a range of hormonal changes beyond simply being receptive to mating. These changes can affect their behaviour, sometimes leading to increased irritability, personality shifts, and difficulties when around other dogs.

If you have two or more unspayed female dogs (bitches) living together, managing their behaviour during this time can become more complex. Often, they will enter heat around the same time, intensifying challenges and introducing potential competition between them.

During their season, a female dog's focus tends to shift to finding a mate, which can stimulate competition, particularly if multiple females are in heat nearby. This heightened tension sometimes causes unusual behaviour such as aggression, even among dogs that usually get along well.

This article explains how you can help manage your female dogs during their season, whether it’s wise to keep them apart, and how spaying might reduce related difficulties.

1. Recognising Potential Aggression

Not every unspayed female dog will show aggressive tendencies when in season, but it is common for some to become more defensive, grumpy, or dominant. This is often more apparent when two bitches are in heat at the same time, as they may see each other as rivals for attention or mates.

Watch closely for early signs of irritation or snappish behaviour between your female dogs. If these signs appear, separating them for the duration of their heat cycle is wise to prevent injuries or fights.

2. Managing Mood Changes and Anxiety

Hormonal fluctuations during season can lead to mood changes beyond aggression. Many female dogs become clingier, more anxious, or less responsive to commands during this time. The presence of another female in heat may worsen these feelings, even without aggressive behaviour.

Providing separate spaces for each bitch and maintaining routines as best as possible can help lower anxiety levels. Separating them during heat may also improve their comfort and reduce stress.

3. Keeping Unspayed Females Separate from Entire Males

It's critical to keep bitches in season away from un-neutered male dogs to avoid unwanted pregnancies. Male dogs can detect a female in heat from several miles away and may become persistent or aggressive trying to reach her.

The presence of male dogs can also increase competition and tension among females in heat, causing behaviours to escalate. If you have un-neutered males, keep them well separated from your females throughout their season.

Additionally, un-neutered male dogs may also unintentionally become aggressive towards one another, so they should be housed apart if possible.

4. Considering Spaying for Long-term Benefits

If breeding is not planned or desired, spaying your female dog is a responsible decision. This surgery not only prevents unwanted litters but also stabilises hormone levels. Many common problems associated with season, such as mood swings, aggression, and the drive to escape in search of a mate, can be reduced or eliminated.

Spaying contributes to better health outcomes and can significantly improve your dogs’ quality of life as well as ease your management of multiple dogs.

When Do Female Dogs Come Into Season?

Quick Answer: Most unspayed female dogs come into season about twice a year, usually every six months, with each heat lasting around 2 to 3 weeks.

Female dogs typically enter their heat cycles starting between six months to a year old, although this depends on breed and individual development. Smaller breeds may cycle more frequently, while larger breeds might come into season once a year.

The heat cycle includes several stages, with the most noticeable being when the female is fertile and receptive to males. Understanding the timing can help owners prepare and manage their dogs better.

How Long Are Dogs in Season?

Quick Answer: A female dog’s heat cycle generally lasts around 2 to 3 weeks, but the fertile period is usually about 5 to 9 days within that time.

During this time, behaviour and hormone levels fluctuate, which explains changes in mood, appetite, and interactions with other dogs. Knowing the duration helps in planning dog walks and managing introductions to other animals.

How Often Should You Keep Unspayed Female Dogs Apart?

Quick Answer: Unspayed females in heat should be kept apart if they show signs of aggression, stress, or if more than one is in season simultaneously to reduce risks of fights and anxiety.

If your dogs tolerate each other during non-season times but become snappy or stressed once they start cycling, separation is advisable during those weeks. Some dogs adapt better and may not need separation, but continuous monitoring is essential. Always prioritise your dogs’ safety and wellbeing.

Conclusion: Care and Responsibility

Managing unspayed female dogs during their season requires careful observation and sometimes temporary separation to keep all animals safe and comfortable. If you have multiple unspayed females, additional vigilance is needed to prevent fights or stress.

Consider spaying your dogs if you do not plan to breed, as this will help avoid many heat-related issues and is a responsible choice for your pets’ health and wellbeing. Always consult your reputable breeders or your vet to discuss the best care for your dogs.

For more advice on dog care and breeding, visit the find a puppy section to learn about appropriate breeders and responsible ownership.