If you’ve ever had a female dog who hasn’t been spayed, you know that the heat cycle can bring about a range of changes. While you may be prepared for the bleeding and behavioral fluctuations, there are other symptoms that can be somewhat unnerving, such as nipple enlargement. In this article, we will explore whether it’s normal for dogs’ nipples to get bigger when in heat, how long it takes for nipples to return to normal, and when it’s necessary to call the vet.
Can Dogs’ Nipples Get Bigger During the Heat Cycle?
As a general rule, a dog’s nipples and mammary glands don’t change in size during the heat cycle. However, it is not uncommon to notice a significant enlargement in your dog’s nipples and breasts when the heat cycle is almost over and the progesterone levels are at their peak.
That being said, there’s no need for alarm if your dog’s nipples are getting bigger during her heat cycle. Many hormonal fluctuations occur during this time, which can cause slight swelling in the mammary glands and nipples. In addition, excessive licking of the vulva and nipples, due to frustration, can also lead to swelling and enlargement.
Dogs may occasionally experience nipple enlargement and swelling during the first three stages of the heat cycle: Proestrus, Estrus, and Diestrus.
Why Did My Dog’s Nipples Get Big After Heat (Even When She’s Not Pregnant)
If your unsprayed dog has mated while in heat, there’s a good chance that she is now pregnant. Within the first two weeks following mating, your dog’s nipples and breasts will enlarge as her body prepares for milk production.
However, pregnancy is not always the reason for nipple enlargement. After about 35 days after ovulation and when the heat cycle is over, there is a significant increase in mammary gland size. This is primarily due to the high levels of progesterone secreted during ovulation and the first half of a potential pregnancy. Additionally, an increased blood supply to the breasts can make the veins around the nipples more visible.
How Long Do Dogs’ Nipples Stay Enlarged After Heat?
If your dog’s nipples get bigger during or after heat and she’s not pregnant, they will eventually return to their normal size. It may take some time, but you can expect the nipples and breasts to shrink back to their usual size after approximately four to five weeks. Keep in mind that this timeframe can vary.
If your dog becomes pregnant and whelps puppies, her breasts and nipples will reduce in size during the weaning stage. However, they may not necessarily return to their pre-pregnancy state.
How Do I Treat My Dog’s Swollen Nipples? Should I Call the Vet?
If your dog’s nipples get bigger during heat and she is otherwise healthy and behaving normally, there is usually no need for specialized medical treatment. The best thing you can do is keep an eye on her well-being and behavior. If she is not pregnant, the nipples should return to normal after a few weeks.
However, if the nipple enlargement is accompanied by other alarming symptoms, it is important to call the vet. Some signs to watch out for include discharge or fluid from the nipples, lumps or masses under the skin, fever, loss of appetite, pain in the mammary gland and surrounding areas, wounds in the mammary gland and surrounding areas, and excessive scratching or biting of the nipples.
If your dog seems fine, but the nipple enlargement and swelling persist for more than a few weeks, it is advisable to visit your vet. In some cases, the heat cycle may not be the main cause of the swelling. Your dog could be experiencing a false pregnancy, an infection, or an allergic reaction to food or products.
There’s usually no need to worry if your dog’s nipples get bigger in heat. They will return to normal size after a few weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When do female dogs go into the first heat cycle?
Female puppies reach puberty at around 6-12 months. The timing of the first heat cycle depends on the dog’s breed and size. Small breeds tend to reach sexual maturity faster than larger breeds such as Great Danes.
Q: How often do dogs go into heat?
As a general rule, a dog’s estrous cycle occurs twice a year or every 5-6 months. However, small breeds may go into heat three times a year, while giant breeds may enter a heat cycle only once a year.
Q: How long do dogs stay in heat?
A dog’s heat cycle typically lasts around 18 days, although the length can vary.
Q: How long does a dog in heat bleed?
Most female dogs will experience a bloody discharge from their vulva during the first stage of the heat cycle. The bleeding usually lasts 7-10 days, although some dogs may have a minimal discharge during the ovulation stage.
Q: How long after bleeding is a dog fertile?
During the second stage of the heat cycle, known as Estrus, your female dog will be ready to mate. This is when the bleeding stops and ovulation occurs. The Estrus stage lasts around 9 days, but it can be as long as 20 days in some dogs.
Q: What are the common symptoms of a dog in heat?
Some behavioral and physiological changes that occur when a dog is in heat include roaming, unusually aggressive behavior, flagging (displaying the rear end to attract males), swollen vulval lips with a bloody discharge, frequent licking of the genitals, frequent urination, and nipple enlargement due to hormonal fluctuations.
Q: How do I know when my dog’s heat is over?
Some clear signs that your dog’s heat cycle is over include a decrease in vulva swelling, the return of nipples to their original size (if enlarged), cessation of vaginal discharge, lack of interest or refusal to mate with male dogs, and calmer behavior.
Conclusion
While it can be disconcerting to see your dog’s nipples enlarge during heat, it is generally a normal part of the heat cycle. In most cases, the nipples will return to their normal size within a few weeks. However, if you notice any concerning symptoms or if the swelling persists, it is important to consult your vet for further evaluation. Remember to provide your dog with the care and attention she needs during this time, and always prioritize her overall well-being.
For more information and products for your furry friend, visit Pawsoha.