Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My chihuahua in heat is licking and whimpering. Is this normal?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Female | unspayed | 3 years and 2 months old | 8 lbs

My 3 year old chihuahua has been in heat for 2 weeks. She has been licking her privates a lot and often whimpers after this. She seems fine when I hold her or when she is in her cage at night. I'm wondering if she has a burning or itching sensation there. She is eating and walking normally. Is this normal? She is scheduled to be spayed in April.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on February 18th, 2017

This is absolutely normal just as long as the heat cycle is active (usually up to 3 weeks), some dogs find it very uncomfortable. in some cases an infection can start as a result of a heat cycle, if this is the case you will see those symptoms continue after the heat cycle is over.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Licking the private area is common when a dog is in heat. This happens because the vulva is swelling, and Marley is also licking up the discharge from being in heat. It is a normal behavior, but sometimes excessively licking can be sign of a problem, such as a vaginal infection. To be safe, you can have Marley seen by a vet for a health check. It's a good idea to have her spayed in April. I hope this helps :-)

    Vote icon

    0Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Is it normal for a pregnant guinea pig to zoom after cage cleaning?
Is your pregnant guinea pig running in circles after a cage cleaning? A trusted vet explains if this is normal and what to watch for during her 59-72 day gestation.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
What's the best way to feed my hamster when I'm going on a trip?
Planning a trip to Chicago and need to feed your Syrian hamster? A certified vet offers expert advice on feeding options for short and long trips, plus finding trusted pet sitters.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?
Can your chickens eat bell peppers and salads? Veterinarian Dr. Elizabeth offers expert advice on safe feeding, frequency, and how fresh veggies boost vibrant yolks.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
My newly adopted pet won't eat hay. What can I do to encourage it?
Adopted a pet not eating hay? Dr. Stafford, a certified vet, offers expert guidance on encouraging hay consumption, including adjusting pellets and trying fresh types.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?
Is your rat breathing heavily, won't eat, and has no energy? A Licensed Vet Tech explains potential causes like infection and age, urging a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

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

Book Now

Sponsored