Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

Why is my dog so sad, tired, and not eating during her heat cycle?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | unspayed | 11 months and 26 days old | 30 lbs

My 11 month old beagle is now in heat and experiencing depression, loss of appetite, ignoring me, and just sleeping all day. I need help...

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 18th, 2017

Poor girl. Some dogs have a tougher time than others when it comes to their first heat cycle. However she does seem to bra late bloomer as most dogs have their first heat cycle around 6-10 months. If she is this ill I would recommend having her to examined by your vet to make sure she isn't having any complications or other underlying illness that's causing this. If she is found to have a ln abnormally intense heat cycle, then the vet can prescribe some safe pet friendly pain medicaiton for her to get for the next few days until the brunt of her menstrual cycle has passed. In the meantime I try placing a warm compress on her belly for a few minutes (be very careful not to leave on too long or you can easily burn your pets skin) to help ease some of the discomfort. hope she feels better soon!

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Sponsored