Pomeranian (detailed introduction)

　　Spring and autumn are the seasons when female dogs go into heat. At this time, owners should watch their dogs closely when walking them. It is appropriate to put sanitary pants on the dog to avoid harassment from male dogs. If you are a new dog owner, it is necessary to understand the symptoms and precautions when dogs are in heat. This knowledge can help you in the future care of your dog.

　　1. What are the symptoms when dogs are in heat

　　1. Female dogs in heat often show excitement, restlessness, and irritability. Their activity becomes frequent, barking becomes deeper, eyes shine, vulva begins to swell, harden, redden, and is accompanied by red mucus. Appetite decreases, tail is raised and back arched, urination frequency increases, and they like to approach male dogs. The heat period generally lasts 6-14 days.

　　2. Male dogs do not have fixed heat periods and become aroused after contacting a female dog in heat. A male dog in heat will urinate everywhere to leave his scent, like to mount female dogs, or use front legs to paw at a person’s arm, rubbing the inside of his hind legs against a person’s leg.

　　3. When dogs mature to a certain age and their sexual organs are developed, heat symptoms will appear. This is normal physiological behavior and a basic biological need for dog reproduction. If you do not want your dog to reproduce, female dogs can be spayed after their first heat, while male dogs can be neutered at any time.

　　2. Precautions when dogs are in heat

　　1. Notes during heat:

　　1) Control weight;

　　2) Wear physiological pants when going out to play, and choose pants that fit well.

　　3) If your dog does not resist when mounted by a male dog, teach your dog to "sit" or "lie down."

　　4) Pay attention to cleanliness of the vulva area.

　　5) After the bleeding phase of heat ends, selective use of antibiotics for three days is possible.

　　2. Precautions before heat:

　　It’s simple. Spring and autumn are common heat seasons. When you suspect your dog is going into heat, it’s time to reduce your dog’s weight by decreasing food intake. Due to hormonal influences, even drinking cold water can cause weight gain during heat. Pay attention to your dog’s vulva for any discharge.

　　3. Precautions after heat:

　　There is still a buffer period after heat; during this stage, the dog will still have a scent. Let your dog perform appropriate movements or behavior when mounted by a male dog, to protect the hind leg joints.

　　3. About false pregnancy:

　　1. False pregnancy mainly manifests in the breasts, nipples, and vulva. It is important to observe carefully and persist in giving malt tea or galactagogues.

　　2. Avoid using hormones unless absolutely necessary.

　　3. Consider spaying for a fundamental solution; hormones and breeding are only temporary fixes.

　　During heat season, dogs often have increased appetite. Owners do not need to add excessive nutrition but should provide clean and sufficient water and maintain hygiene. Over-nutrition leading to obesity is undesirable.