Dog Puberty: You Need to Know about Sexual Maturity in Dogs

The season of sexual maturity (dog puberty) is triggered by hormonal changes that lead to physical and behavioral changes in dogs.

Typically, puppies begin to mature sexually at 7 and 10 months of age. There is some variation and each dog is different.

Adolescent female puppy

Generally, females have cycles twice a year, but some females heat only once a year. The first heat of a bitch can come 6 months old and 18 months late. For the most part their first heat is about 10 months.

How to tell when your female puppy is in Heat

• Swelling Down There: Check if her private area (vulva) looks bigger than usual.
• Cleaning on Repeat: If she keeps licking and cleaning her private parts more often than usual.
• Seeing Red: Look out for a reddish discharge from her vulva. At the start, it’s bloody red and then turns lighter, like water-thin red, lasting for about 21 to 28 days.
• Bathroom Breaks Galore: If she’s making more trips to the bathroom than usual.
• Acting Different: Watch for changes in behavior. She might be extra playful with other dogs or a bit moody—showing signs like being more aggressive, anxious, or impatient. Sometimes, she might act a bit unsure or insecure.
• Fur Surprise: Keep an eye out for extra shedding of fur, which can happen about 4 to 6 weeks before her heat starts. It might be a bit tricky to notice, though.

When females become pregnant

The female can agree to accept the male at any time. It usually heats up to a maximum of 7 to 18, but it can be anytime.

Female puppies can have their first season anytime from 6 months of age, although the next season is common in Labradors and Golden Retrievers.

Also Read: Red Sable German shepherd Puppy Vs Belgian Malinois: A Quick Look

Signs to look for include swelling or laughter of the vulva, or small drops of blood on the floor or on the puppy’s bed.

If you suspect your player is in season, do not take them out publicly and include puppy meetings.

Although males are neutral, females experience hormonal changes during the season and they behave differently than usual.

Female dog health problems

Frequent urination indicates a urinary tract infection. If your older female dog is urinating frequently, it may be a sign that she is getting into the heat.

Vaginitis is a yellow discharge from the vulva (external genitalia), and is especially common in female children. It clears up after heat but if you laugh excessively or urinate frequently, oral antibiotics may be used.

It is a yellow discharge from the vulva (external gynecology), and it is especially seen in young female offspring. It clears up after heat but if you laugh excessively or urinate frequently, oral antibiotics may be used.

Adolescent male dog

The male puppy exhibits objectionable behavior as it matures. If he fits your leg or children or chairs, let him know it is not acceptable.

The best way to discourage a dog is to distract him by giving him a correction and giving him something else at that time.

Give him a toy, or a bone, or a little obedience – anything to clear his mind. If he persists, let your advisor or area coordinator get support regarding the issue.

As he matures the male puppy may become more spatial, and you may notice that he wants to start “recognizing his territory” by lifting one leg and stopping to urinate. Our guide dogs should not be marking.

Preventing this is often successful by allowing urination only on flat surfaces rather than near shrubs or trees.

If your mature male puppy has excessive discharge from his penis, report it to the Foundation.

Occasionally such a condition requires medication, but often small amounts of discharge are common.

Fertility permits

All of our puppies can be considered for further evaluation and acceptance into the breeding colony. Accepted dogs in the breeding program should be among the best of the best. Therefore, they should be puppies just like the other puppies in the program.

Your advisor will contact you regarding fertility permits. Clearances include eye exams, heart tests, kennel stays and behavioral evaluations. We may request additional permits and this process will last until the puppy is over a year old.

If you are informed that the puppy you are raising is in “Breeder Hold”, they will be accepted in our Breeding Colony. Total litter, all males, or all females of a litter are stopped and, in general, one or two of the litter dogs are selected.

Spaying and Neutering

Your dog guide will contact you if you have time to become a representative of the Dog Foundation. Your counselor or area coordinator will inform you about the puppy’s spay or neuter anytime between 7-15 months.

When we call, we request that you take your vet puppy’s hip x-rays (perhaps even the elbows and shoulders).

Please set a date with your vet after you hear from the foundation and notify the puppy department of the date of the x-rays and/or surgery.

The staff of the Guide Dog Foundation should have a copy of any X-ray for evaluation to determine if the fruits are acceptable for the veterinarian guide work.

Please leave them in our lobby or mail them to us for attention to the puppy department if they are not sent electronically.

At this time we will let you know if the puppy is released from the program for an orthopedic reason.

Spaying or neutering your dog is a decision that many pet owners face during the puberty stage. Spaying refers to the surgical removal of the female dog’s ovaries and uterus, while neutering involves the removal of the male dog’s testicles. Both procedures are aimed at preventing unwanted pregnancies and offer several health benefits for your dog.

• Benefits of Spaying Female Dogs: – Prevention of uterine infections: Spaying eliminates the risk of uterine infections, such as pyometra, which can be life-threatening. – Reduces the risk of mammary tumors: Spaying before the first heat cycle significantly reduces the risk of mammary tumors, which can be malignant. – Eliminates the heat cycle: Spayed female dogs no longer experience the heat cycle, eliminating the associated behavioral changes and bleeding.
• Benefits of Neutering Male Dogs: – Prevention of testicular cancer: Neutering eliminates the risk of testicular cancer, which is common in intact male dogs. – Reduces the risk of prostate problems: Neutering decreases the likelihood of prostate problems, such as prostatitis and benign prostatic hyperplasia. – Helps reduce aggression: Neutered male dogs are generally less aggressive and less likely to exhibit territorial behaviors.

Spaying or neutering your dog also contributes to reducing the pet overpopulation problem. By preventing unwanted litters, you are helping to alleviate the strain on animal shelters and reduce the number of homeless dogs.

Behavioral Changes During Dog Puberty

During dog puberty, hormonal changes can have a significant impact on your dog’s behavior. Understanding these changes and how to manage them can help you navigate this phase with ease. Here are some common behavioral changes you may observe:

1. Increased energy and playfulness: Dogs going through puberty often experience an increase in energy levels and become more playful. They may engage in more rough play with other dogs or exhibit a desire for increased physical activity.
2. Mounting behavior: Both male and female dogs may display mounting behavior as a result of hormonal changes. This behavior is not necessarily related to sexual intent and can be a way for dogs to establish dominance or release excess energy.
3. Heightened territorial instincts: Puberty can trigger a dog’s territorial instincts, leading to increased protectiveness over their space and belongings. This may result in excessive barking, growling, or even aggression towards unfamiliar people or animals.
4. Increased independence: As dogs mature, they may start to exhibit more independence and may challenge authority or test boundaries. This is a normal part of their development as they establish their individuality.
5. Changes in social behavior: Puberty can also affect a dog’s social behavior. Some dogs may become more aloof or less interested in interacting with humans or other dogs, while others may become more sociable and seek out companionship.

It’s important to remain patient and consistent with your dog during this stage. Providing regular exercise, mental stimulation, and positive reinforcement training can help channel their energy in a productive way and promote desired behavior.

Dealing with Aggression during Dog Puberty

Aggression can sometimes arise during dog puberty due to hormonal changes and increased territorial instincts. It’s crucial to address any aggressive behaviors in a timely and appropriate manner to ensure the safety of both your dog and others. Here are some tips for dealing with aggression during this stage:

1. Consult a professional: If your dog displays aggressive behavior, it’s advisable to seek guidance from a professional dog trainer or behaviorist. They can assess the situation, identify the underlying causes, and provide you with effective strategies to manage and modify your dog’s behavior.
2. Positive reinforcement training: Positive reinforcement training techniques, such as reward-based training, can be highly effective in addressing aggression. By rewarding desired behavior and redirecting your dog’s focus, you can help them learn more appropriate ways to interact with others.
3. Establish clear boundaries: Consistency is key when dealing with aggression. Establish clear boundaries for your dog and ensure that everyone in the household follows the same rules. This will help your dog understand what behaviors are acceptable and what are not.
4. Avoid punishment: Punishment can escalate aggression and create fear or anxiety in dogs. Instead, focus on positive reinforcement and reward-based training methods to encourage good behavior.
5. Manage the environment: During the puberty stage, it’s important to manage your dog’s environment to minimize triggers that may lead to aggressive behavior. This can include avoiding situations that cause stress or anxiety and providing a safe and secure space for your dog.

Remember, aggression can be a complex issue, and it’s important to address it with patience and professional guidance. With time, consistency, and appropriate training, you can help your dog overcome aggressive behaviors and create a harmonious living environment.

Managing Reproductive Behaviors

During dog puberty, your dog may exhibit reproductive behaviors that can be challenging to manage. Here are some tips for effectively managing these behaviors:

1. Supervision and management: Keep a close eye on your dog and supervise them when they are outside or in unfamiliar environments. This helps prevent accidental mating and reduces the risk of unwanted pregnancies.
2. Separation during heat cycles: Female dogs in heat should be kept separate from intact males to prevent mating. Ensure they have a safe and secure space where they cannot escape or be accessed by male dogs.
3. Distraction techniques: Use distraction techniques, such as engaging your dog in play or providing interactive toys, to redirect their focus away from reproductive behaviors. This can help prevent mounting or excessive sexual behaviors.
4. Consultation with a veterinarian: If your dog’s reproductive behaviors become a persistent issue or cause distress, consult with your veterinarian. They can provide guidance on managing these behaviors, including the possibility of medication or hormonal interventions.
5. Spaying or neutering: Spaying or neutering your dog is the most effective way to manage reproductive behaviors and prevent unwanted litters. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate time for spaying or neutering based on your dog’s breed and health considerations.

By implementing these strategies and seeking guidance from professionals, you can effectively manage reproductive behaviors and ensure safety.