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What Age Do Female Goldendoodles Go into Heat?

Most female Goldendoodles will go into heat when they are about 6 months old. However, a miniature Goldendoodle might reach sexual maturity a little quicker than this standard because they are smaller. Keep reading to know the signs of a dog in heat and learn about the frequency of these cycles.

How Often Do Goldendoodles Go into Heat?

White goldendoodle laying on a blue covered couch

Although it can vary from one dog to another, most Goldendoodles will go into heat every 6 months. This means two heat cycles per year. However, miniature Goldendoodles can have 3 (or even 4) heat cycles in a year.

A heat cycle will last anywhere between 2 weeks to a month. You will need to observe your pup to determine the exact number of days of her cycle. Irrespective of the duration of the cycle, the bleeding period is around 9 days. It happens during the proestrus phase of the cycle and is usually accompanied by a swollen vulva.

You will find spots of a bloody discharge of your dog’s bed and other places, like furniture and carpets. The discharge is heavier during the first 2 to 3 days and becomes less as the cycle progresses.

Phases of a Heat Cycle in Female Goldendoodles

White goldendoodle in a crate with puppies nursing

The heat cycle of your dog is divided into four stages and each of them is marked by certain physical and behavioral changes. Your pooch will also experience hormonal changes in each phase of the cycle. The time frame of each stage can vary from one dog to another. The key information about these phases is mentioned below.

Proestrus – This stage marks the beginning of the heat cycle and usually lasts for 9 days. However, it can go up to 27 days in some cases. Swollen vulva and vaginal discharge are the most obvious signs.

Estrus – This is the phase in which your dog is fertile and receptive to males. It can last between 4 and 24 days but the average duration is 9 days. The swelling on the vulva and the bloody discharge will decrease.

Diestrus – This stage lasts for about 60 days (whether your dog got pregnant or not). Your female Goldendoodle won’t be receptive to males during this phase as its estrogen levels have decreased (progesterone increased).

Anestrus ­­– This is the resting phase of the cycle in which your dog’s body will recover (in case of pregnancy). It will last for about 4 months.

Signs of a Goldendoodle in Heat

Cream colored goldendoodle standing on the top of a hill

Swelling of the vulva is one of the first signs that you may notice in your female Goldendoodle. It is usually accompanied by a vaginal discharge that is quite bloody at the beginning. It keeps becoming thinner and thinner as the cycle progresses and will start appearing pinkish. Some other signs that can indicate your dog is in heat are as follows.

  • Excessive urination to attract male dogs
  • Frequent licking of the genital area
  • Nervousness
  • Aggression
  • Moving the tail over to one side

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