Poodle (Detailed Introduction)

　　Female dogs generally have their first heat around one year old. Like humans, dogs during heat can suddenly become irritable and restless, have a worse temper than usual, experience appetite changes, and other symptoms. Heat brings not only mental changes but also physical troubles to dogs. Therefore, when a dog is in heat, you must avoid deliberately provoking it and instead show it extra care during this stage.

　　1. Changes Brought to Dogs by Heat

　　1. Timing of Heat

　　The time when each dog comes into heat varies, and it is greatly related to their usual diet. Normally, it occurs at about 6-8 months old, but for dogs eating commercial dog food, it usually happens around 8-10 months.

　　2. Feeding Habit Issues

　　Dogs that normally like to eat meat tend to come into heat earlier. Meat contains higher levels of growth hormones, so it is not recommended to feed meat too early as it may affect the dog's development and cause reproductive issues.

　　3. Emotional Changes

　　When dogs are in heat, their emotions change significantly. A normally gentle dog may become easily irritable, anxious, and tense during the heat cycle, and their appetite may decrease as well.

　　2. Effects on Canine Physical Condition

　　1. Poor Mental State

　　During the heat cycle, female dogs tend to be mentally scattered and find food less appealing. Owners can add highly nutritious food that is easy to digest to their meals.

　　2. Prone to Constipation

　　Dogs are more prone to constipation during their heat. Owners should increase vegetables or fiber-rich dog food, provide warm water to drink, and avoid cold or spicy food.

　　3. Frequency of Dog Heat Cycles

　　Dogs have two heat cycles per year, and bleeding usually lasts about a month. However, the number of days varies between individual dogs and their constitution. Swelling around the urination area is also common.

Poodle (Detailed Introduction)

　　3. Pay Attention to Hygiene and Cleanliness

　　1. Regular Wiping and Cleaning

　　During the dog's heat period, owners should always have wet wipes ready and regularly clean the dog's body. Dogs can also use special protective pads to avoid infections and related diseases.

　　2. Regularly Disinfect the Environment

　　During heat, the items dogs come into contact with, such as mats, blankets, and dog beds, should be regularly disinfected and cleaned. Items used by the dog should be replaced regularly, and ideally, dried in the sun after washing to sterilize.

　　3. Dog's Personal Cleanliness

　　Dogs in heat discharge blood-stained mucus, which they mostly clean themselves. However, some parts might be hard for dogs to clean on their own, so owners need to help with hygiene and keep the dog clean.

　　Editor's Tips:

　　1. The dog's body is weaker during heat, and their immunity is lower. If the dog gets dirty, it is best to wipe with a towel and blow dry, avoiding baths which may cause illness.

　　2. You can buy dog sanitary pants during the physiological period, selected according to the dog's size. It is best to try them on in physical stores to ensure a proper fit.