How to Clean a Female Dog in Heat

Female dogs often go into their first heat cycle while they are still puppies. Many veterinarians will recommend spaying your dog early so she doesn’t ever have to go into a heat cycle. Exceptions would be for large breed dogs who often go through at least one heat cycle before spaying, so their bodies are allowed to grow properly before cutting off the hormones responsible for both heat and growth. Another exception would be a to-be mother. If you are breeding your dog, she may go into several heat cycles. Keeping her clean will help her smell good, feel good, and keep her private areas sanitary. 

She might be a tad irritated. She might be agitated. Your dog in heat might be a bit uncomfortable and potentially more tired than usual. You might find her curiosity leads her to lick often. Just keep an eye on her and keep her as clean as you can. 

• Always use a mild and gentle dog shampoo and never a human shampoo for bathing your dog. 
  
• A dog in heat might be irritated or agitated easily. 
  
• Pay close attention to her actions and body language. She will tell you if she wants to be bothered.
  
• Your dog might be licking her sanitary areas often while she’s in heat. This is normal. 
  
• Excessive licking could cause dryness and irritation. 
  
• If you are not choosing to keep her covered with a heat diaper, you can keep her contained in a room or crate to help keep the rest of your house clean. 
  
• Dog wipes are perfect easy solutions for wiping away discharge while she is in heat. 
  
• If you do not spay your dog, she will go into heat again, so be prepared for all that comes with owning a dog in heat. 
  
• Spaying your dog will prevent future heat cycles. 
  
• You should not have to bathe your dog more often while she is in heat thanat any other time. But be sure to pay attention to her private areas to ensure they are staying sanitary during her cycle.