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My dog might be in heat. What are the signs & spaying pros/cons?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Maltese | Female | unspayed | 3 years and 5 months old | 4 lbs

How do I know that her cycle has begun? What are the symptoms before she is in heating? What are the risks and benefits of spaying her?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on November 9th, 2016

When a dog goes in heat you may see some behavioural changes, sometimes some lack of appetite and of course some spotting (bleeding). It is highly recommended to spay your dog as it will eliminate the risk of mammary gland cancer (very common in unspayed dogs) and pyometra (uterine infection). The downside is a higher risk developing incontinence at a later age as well as obesity (which can be avoided with proper diet).

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    Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Well the menstrual cycle consists of vaginal swelling and bleeding (sometimes not as evident in smaller pets, especially if they lick themselves clean). Small breed dogs cycle every 6 months starting from 6-8 months of age. Pros to spaying- prevent a life threatening condition called pyometra. If done before the 3rd cycle you can significantly decrease the chances of mammary cancer. Cons to spaying- none that I can think of, unless your pet is deemed an unfit candidate for surgery.

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