How Long Does a Shih Tzu Stay in Heat? Everything You Need to Know
For Shih Tzu owners, it’s important to know when and how often your pet will go into heat. A Shih Tzu’s heat cycle involves several stages, each lasting a specific time. The total heat period for a female Shih Tzu usually ranges from two to three weeks. During this time, you might notice changes in her behavior and appearance.
If you’re wondering how long does a Shih Tzu stay in heat, this guide will break down the timeline, stages, and signs to look out for. Let’s explore what each stage looks like and what you need to know to care for her.
Table of Contents
How Long Does a Shih Tzu Stay in Heat?
How long does a Shih Tzu stay in heat? The entire heat period generally lasts about 18-21 days. However, this may vary slightly from dog to dog. During the heat cycle, there are several stages, each with its own duration and characteristics.
Here’s a quick look at the stages and how long they usually last:
| Stage | Duration | Description |
| Proestrus | 7-10 days | Initial stage; female shows signs of heat but is not yet ready to mate. Swelling of the vulva and light discharge are common. |
| Estrus | 5-14 days | Fertile period; female becomes receptive to mating. Discharge color may change. |
| Diestrus | 60-90 days | After estrus; female is no longer receptive to mating. If pregnant, this stage includes the gestation period. |
| Anestrus | Several months | Rest period between heat cycles. |
Understanding the stages in detail can make managing the heat period much easier.
Stages of a Shih Tzu’s Heat Cycle
The heat cycle of a Shih Tzu has four distinct stages. Each phase has unique signs, and knowing these will help you recognize where your dog is in the cycle.
Proestrus (7-10 Days)
The proestrus phase is the beginning of the heat cycle, usually lasting 7-10 days. During this time:
- Her vulva will swell.
- A bloody discharge may be noticeable.
- She may show signs of restlessness.
While male dogs might show interest in her, she won’t be receptive yet. This is the phase when you’ll likely first notice changes.
Estrus (5-14 Days)
The estrus stage is when your Shih Tzu is fertile. It generally lasts from 5 to 14 days:
- Discharge may lighten and become pinkish.
- She may start to allow male dogs to approach.
- Behaviorally, she may seem friendlier or more playful.
Estrus is the stage where mating usually happens. Supervision is crucial if you don’t want your Shih Tzu to mate during this period.
Diestrus (60-90 Days)
The diestrus phase comes right after estrus and typically lasts between 60 to 90 days:
- Her body starts returning to normal.
- If pregnant, this stage includes the gestation period.
- She is no longer receptive to males.
Diestrus is a recovery time for her body and, if she’s not pregnant, her heat symptoms will decrease.
Anestrus (Several Months)
The anestrus phase is a resting period. This can last for several months until the next heat cycle begins. During anestrus:
- She shows no signs of heat.
- She is completely inactive reproductively.
Knowing the phases helps you answer, how long is a Shih Tzu in heat? These stages make up the entire heat cycle, which can last several weeks.
How Often Does a Shih Tzu Go into Heat?
Typically, Shih Tzus go into heat twice a year, about every six months. This frequency may vary depending on factors like age and overall health. Most dogs start their heat cycle between 6 and 12 months of age. As they get older, the cycle may become more consistent.
Keeping track of your Shih Tzu’s cycle can help you predict future heat periods and monitor any irregularities.
How Long Does a Female Shih Tzu Stay in Heat?
How long does a female Shih Tzu stay in heat? Generally, a female Shih Tzu is in heat for 18-21 days. This includes all four stages of the heat cycle. During this time, physical and behavioral changes occur as she progresses through each stage.
The fertile period, when she can conceive, occurs during the estrus phase, which is in the middle of the cycle. This period usually lasts around a week, but it’s the most crucial time to monitor her if you don’t want her to mate.
Symptoms of a Shih Tzu in Heat
When your Shih Tzu goes into heat, you may notice several signs. Here’s what to look out for:
Physical Symptoms
- Swollen Vulva: The most noticeable physical sign.
- Discharge: Starts as dark red and may change color as the cycle progresses.
- Increased Urination: She may urinate more frequently to mark her scent.
Behavioral Symptoms
- Restlessness: Many dogs become restless or nervous.
- Clinginess: Some dogs seek extra attention from their owners.
- Behavior Toward Males: She may show interest in male dogs, especially during the estrus stage.
These signs can help you know how long your Shih Tzu is in heat and where she is in the cycle.
How Long Does a Male Shih Tzu Stay in Heat?
How long does a male Shih Tzu stay in heat? Technically, male Shih Tzus don’t go into heat like females. However, they do react strongly to females in heat. Male Shih Tzus become more alert and might even act restless when a female nearby is in heat. Their behavior changes when they smell the female’s pheromones.
Male Shih Tzus might:
- Bark or whine more.
- Show more interest in marking territory.
- Seem distracted or unsettled.
This reaction can last as long as the female is in heat. Supervision is key to preventing unwanted behavior, especially around female dogs in the estrus phase.
Caring for a Shih Tzu During Her Heat Cycle
Keeping your Shih Tzu comfortable and safe during her heat is important. Here are some simple steps you can follow:
Physical Comfort
- Provide a Comfortable Resting Area: Give her a quiet place to relax.
- Use Diapers: Dog diapers can help manage discharge and keep her clean.
Limited Outdoor Access
- Leash Walks Only: Avoid letting her off-leash, as males may try to approach.
- Avoid Dog Parks: It’s safer to keep her away from areas with other dogs.
Taking these steps ensures she stays comfortable and avoids stressful encounters with other dogs.
Preventing Unwanted Mating During the Heat Cycle
To prevent unwanted pregnancies, follow these tips:
- Supervise Closely: Never leave her unattended outdoors.
- Separate Male and Female Dogs: If you have a male dog, keep them in separate rooms.
- Plan Indoor Activities: To keep her entertained, try puzzle toys or simple games indoors.
These precautions will help protect your Shih Tzu during her heat period.
Should You Spay Your Shih Tzu?
Spaying is a common choice for many pet owners. It prevents the heat cycle and helps reduce the risk of certain health issues. Here are some reasons why you might consider spaying your Shih Tzu:
- No More Heat Cycles: Spaying eliminates the heat cycle completely.
- Lower Health Risks: Spaying reduces the chance of some cancers.
- Less Mess and Stress: No more discharge or behavior changes.
Veterinarians often suggest waiting until after the first heat cycle to spay a Shih Tzu, as it allows her to mature. Always consult with a vet for the best timing based on her health.
Conclusion
Knowing how long does a Shih Tzu stay in heat can help you manage her needs and keep her comfortable. The heat cycle may seem challenging at first, but with understanding and preparation, it’s manageable. By keeping track of her cycle stages and symptoms, you’ll be able to provide the care she needs during this time.
Whether you decide to spay your Shih Tzu or not, knowing her heat cycle can make life easier for both of you.
FAQs
Do Shih Tzus experience discomfort during their heat cycle?
Yes, some Shih Tzus may experience mild discomfort or restlessness due to hormonal changes. Providing a cozy space and warm blankets can help soothe your pet during this time.
How long should I keep my Shih Tzu away from other dogs during heat?
Keep your Shih Tzu separate from male dogs for the entire heat cycle, which generally lasts 18-21 days. Supervise outdoor time and avoid dog parks to prevent unwanted interactions.
What is the best age to spay a Shih Tzu to avoid heat cycles?
Many vets recommend spaying after the first heat cycle, typically between 6 and 12 months. Spaying at this age helps prevent health issues and unwanted heat symptoms.
Can a Shih Tzu go into heat more than twice a year?
While most Shih Tzus have heat cycles twice a year, some may experience more frequent cycles, especially when young. Tracking each cycle helps identify any irregularities.
