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Is lethargy and diarrhea normal for a puppy in her first heat?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

My puppy is experiencing her first heat cycle. She has been bleeding for a few days now. She is lethargic & has diarrhea. Is this normal?

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

Veterinary Technician

Published on August 17th, 2015

Lethargy and diarrhea re not usually normal during a heat cycle. Most dogs will be actively looking to mate, alert, receptive and have swelling of the vulva along with some bleeding. If you are seeing discharge that is not bleeding, diarrhea and lethargy it is best to bring her into a vet as soon as possible.

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21Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

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    Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on December 30th, 2018

    The hormonal changes can cause diarrhea. If the diarrhea does not go away within the next two days, try the following: I would fast Hildi for 24 hours and then put her on bland food for two days, such as boiled white rice and boiled white boneless chicken meat, fed in small quantities over several feeds and then transition back to regular food slowly over a few days. If this does not clear up the diarrhea or if your dog gets lethargic, she needs to see a veterinarian for an exam as there may be something more serious such as an infection going on.

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    Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 28th, 2019

    It is likely caused by the stress and hormones of the first heat. As for the diarrhea you can do the following: I would fast Mia for 24 hours and then put her on bland food for two days, such as boiled white rice and boiled white boneless chicken meat, fed in small quantities over several feeds and then transition back to regular food slowly over a few days. If this does not clear up the diarrhea or if your dog gets lethargic, she needs to see a veterinarian for an exam as there may be something more serious such as an infection going on.

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    10Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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    Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

    Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

    Published on November 27th, 2016

    Yes, many female dogs may act a bit lethargic and eat less than usual when they're in heat. I would monitor her for the next few days to make sure that she seems okay otherwise, but as long as these changes are fairly mild and she doesn't develop any other symptoms, I wouldn't be concerned.

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