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My puppy's first heat: Why is she tired, needy, and chewing paws?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Dachshund miniature | Female | unspayed | 9 lbs

My mini weenie dog puppy is going through her first heating cycle. She seems lathargic and has been chewing on her paws. She seems uninterested in playing and seems very cuddly/needy. Her belly is also tender.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on August 10th, 2017

Sometimes dogs will feel uncomfortable during their first cycle. They may be lethargic, have a decreased appetite, and crave attention more than normal. All of this is completely normal. The itchy paws does not really fit with being in heat, and could be caused by fleas, mange, lice, infections (bacterial or yeast), ringworm, allergies, among others. You can try a medicated shampoo, like Dechra MalAcetic Ultra Shampoo along with a good flea preventative. If it continues after her heat cycle is over, you should see a vet for diagnosis.

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    Answered By Isabelle Roese, DVM, CVA

    Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

    Published on

    Going into her first cycle could explain her being a little off but if it persist, see your veterinarian for an exam. When it come to itchy paws, could be part of her hormonal time but could be allergies too. If you do not plan to breed her, I suggest you get her spayed before her next heat cycle. Spaying early helps prevent mammary tumors development in the future. I hope Molly Mae fells better sone!

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