If you're a new puppy owner—especially of a female dog—you might be wondering what to expect from her first season (heat) and when is the right time to consider spaying. Here’s a guide based on real experiences with toy poodles, plus some practical tips. Every dog is different, so it’s always best to check with your veterinarian and breeder for breed-specific advice.
When Do Puppies Have Their First Season?
Most female puppies will have their first season between six and nine months old, although some may not start until 12–18 months. After the first heat, seasons typically occur every six months, but they may be irregular while your pup is still maturing.
Examples from my experience:
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Darcy (toy poodle) had her first season at 9 months, followed by another 7 months later, then another after 6 months.
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Villanelle, another toy poodle, had her first season right at 6 months. A couple of months later, she showed signs of a season again—but it turned out to be hormonal changes, not a full heat, often known as a split season. But she has been roughly every six months.
- Bridget, also a toy poodle (yes I have a type!), she had her first season at 10 months old, and her second season was the same and then she jumped forward to sync up with Villanelle and they ended up having their seasons start on exactly the same day!
Signs Your Dog Is Coming Into Season
You may notice subtle changes in your dog’s behaviour before her season begins. Common first heat symptoms in dogsinclude:
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Increased clinginess or affection
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Appetite changes (either eating less or more)
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Scent-marking during walks - if your dog already does this you will notice she does it more frequently constantly stopping on walks to pee
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Swollen vulva and nipples
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Light bleeding or spotting (some dogs are very clean, so it may be hard to notice)
Tip: You can gently blot with some cotton wool to check for signs of blood if you're unsure.
A typical season lasts around three weeks, but it's safest to keep your dog on-lead and avoid dog parks for four weeks.
⚠️ Important: Your dog is most fertile after the bleeding stops, usually around day 13 of the season. This is when extra caution is needed. It is best to keep away from busy dog walking areas from days 9-14 and definitely keep her on lead, make sure you check her around an intact male dog to see if he is sniffing her before you let her off lead after day 14, as they can still get pregnant after this date.
How to Keep Your Dog Clean During Her Season
Most dogs clean themselves well, but here are a few helpful tips:
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Use puppy pants only at night or if your dog doesn’t clean herself
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Lay down washable blankets or sheets to protect bedding or furniture
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Avoid restricting her too much—some dogs may get frustrated if they can’t clean themselves naturally
Stages of a Dog’s Heat Cycle
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Proestrus (Bleeding Phase): 7–13 days
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Estrus (Fertile Window): ~3 days, but can last up to 10 days
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Post-Season Recovery: Hormones settle over the following few weeks
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Possible Phantom Pregnancy: Occurs ~8 weeks after a season
What Is a Phantom Pregnancy in Dogs?
A phantom pregnancy (false pregnancy) happens when a dog’s body thinks it’s pregnant after a season. Symptoms may include:
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Nesting behaviour
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Carrying or nursing toys
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Lactation
If this happens:
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Remove all toys she’s treating like puppies
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Try raspberry leaf tablets from day one of her next season to help reduce symptoms
Some dogs, like Darcy, experience recurring phantom pregnancies, which can be emotionally distressing. This may lead owners to consider spaying as a long-term solution.
When Should You Spay Your Dog?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Vets may recommend spaying before or after the first season, but the timing depends on:
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Breed
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Size
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Hormonal maturity
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Risk of phantom pregnancies or other health issues
🐾 Spaying is usually done at least 3 months after a season, when hormone levels have stabilised.
Personal experience:
I waited until Darcy was two years old, based on advice from poodle breeders and other owners. Her unpredictable seasons and worsening phantom pregnancies made spaying the best option for her.
In contrast, Villanelle had an easy first season and no phantom pregnancy, so I’m holding off spaying unless her situation changes.
How to Support Your Dog During Her Season
Just like humans, hormones can affect mood and behaviour. Be patient and follow her lead:
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If she wants cuddles, give her lots of love
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If she wants space, respect it
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Don’t stress over skipped meals – her appetite should return soon
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Keep her on-lead and away from dog parks to protect both her and other dogs (especially intact males)
Your dog’s first season can be a learning experience—for both of you! Monitor her behaviour, speak to your vet and breeder, and connect with other owners of your breed for tailored advice. Whether or not you choose to spay is a personal decision, but being informed will help you make the best choice for your dog’s long-term health and happiness.
Want more puppy care tips?
Explore our other blog posts for puppy teething advice, toys for comfort and play, and more!