Why has my older female dog stopped going into heat? Is it normal?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Parson Russell Terrier | Female | unspayed | 6 years and 8 months old
When do female dogs stop going into heat? My dog hasn't had a season in 3 years and she's nearly 7 years.
5 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on June 29th, 2016
Female dogs don't actually stop having [heats](https://www.petcoach.co/article/anatomy-and-function-of-the-reproductive-system-in-dogs). This is because as they get older, they do not always show the external or behavioral signs that they are actually having a heat, this can sometimes be referred to as a ‘silent heat.' It is important to remember that even though your dog may not be showing signs of being in season that she could still get pregnant if mated by an intact male dog. Ideally, you should consider having her [spayed](https://www.petcoach.co/article/spaying-ovariohysterectomy-the-benefits-in-dogs). There may also be an undiagnosed hormonal disease or ovarian disease present that stopped her cycling. In order to make sure it is not a serious condition you should have her checked by a veterinarian. It is possible that it is a harmless reason, but it is also possible that there is a serious underlying condition.
126Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on
At this age she should still come in season. It is possible that your dog may have had a hormonal disease or ovarian disease that stopped her cycling. In order to make sure it is not some serious condition you should have her checked by a veterinarian. It is possible that it is a harmless reason, but it is also possible that there is a serious underlying condition.
71Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on June 9th, 2017
It could be she is having heat cycles but with only a small amount of discharge, or it could be she has an issue with her ovaries which is preventing them from releasing estrogen. If you're not planning on using her for breeding I recommend considering getting her spayed as this would reduce the likelihood of a severe uterine infection called pyometra as well certain mammary cancers. If you are going to use her for breeding you may want to consult a veterinary reproduction Specialist as you may have difficulty getting her breed successfully with this history.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on January 16th, 2018
There are a number of possibilities for irregular heat cycles, ovarian cysts and chronic infection are both possible. I recommend an ultrasound exam to investigate further and neutering if you do not intend to breed her in order to prevent further complications
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on November 28th, 2017
You probably missed the time to breed her if she is no longer showing signs of heat. It should not have anything to do with the older dog's heat cycle. If this happens again though, I would suggest you take her to a vet for an exam. She may have issues with her uterus/ovaries that are causing irregular heats. Best wishes.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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