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My male dog is panting and won't leave my female dog in heat. Why?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Pit Bull Terrier | Male | unneutered | 1 year and 6 months old | 125 lbs

My female is in heat and he has been acting really funny he wont leave her side and is panting alot

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on March 11th, 2018

It's probably because Zeus wants to mate with her that he won't leave her side. Male dogs can sense when a dog is in heat, and they will be attracted to the female and stay by them so they can mate with them every chance they get. If you don't want them to have puppies, I would keep them separated completely until her heat is over, which usually lasts around three weeks. You can get him neutered as well so that puppies will not happen, but he would still have to be kept separate from her for at least three to four weeks post surgery. This is because he would still be able to impregnate her, he will not be sterile fully until after those weeks have passed. I hope this helps!

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