My dog's first heat: Is her bleeding and spotting normal?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Boston Terrier | Female | spayed | 1 year old
My one year old Boston terrier has been bleeding since Feb 26 she’s not fixed is this normal? She’s only spotting now here and there..is this normal??? This is her first heat cycle by the way
5 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on March 13th, 2018
A dog's heat cycle lasts for around three weeks, so if she started on February 26, it should be ending soon. It's normal that she is spotting occasionally, and you know when she's out of heat when the discharge stops. Now if the bleeding continues for longer than three weeks or Sophie develops other signs such as anorexia, thick pus filled discharge, vomiting, increased bleeding, and/or lethargy, this is not normal and she will need to see a vet immediately. Good luck, I hope this helps!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on February 12th, 2018
A normal heat cycle is 3 weeks. The first heat can be different since their bodies are learning and changing so much they have to adjust for it. If she is acting normal and eating and drinking well, then I would monitor her for any changes. If it continues past 3 weeks, then I would get her checked.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on April 8th, 2020
On average a dog will be in heat for 1 ½ to 2 weeks but this can be shorter or longer; up to 4 weeks. So, this may be normal for her. Just keep monitoring her and if the heat lasts longer than 4 weeks she should be examined by your vet.
3Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on March 22nd, 2019
A dog's heat can last up to four weeks, and it sounds like she is approaching that four week mark. To be safe, I'd have her checked out by a vet if she is still bleeding in another 48-72 hours. Best of luck.
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on December 28th, 2016
Bleeding 8 weeks after the start of a heat cycle is abnormal, bleeding usually occurs up to 3 weeks from the start of the heat cycle, it could be due to an ovarian cyst or some other reproductive abnormality, I would strongly recommend taking Frankie to the vet to get it checked ASAP.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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