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My 18-year-old dog is bleeding. Is she in heat or a health issue?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

My Yorkshire terrier is nearly 18. She has started bleeding is she in season again. Otherwise she is healthy.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ann Dion, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on February 5th, 2019

Hello and welcome to Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. As dogs get older their heat cycles decrease, so if your dog hasn't had a heat in a while, and is now bleeding, then this is unlikely to be heat, and more concerning for cancer in the uterus or an infected uterus. I recommend bringing her in for a check up, as she could have a condition called pyometra that is fixable but if left untreated is fatal. Best of luck with your little girl!

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