Dear VetBabble,
I have a Yorkie who was born on 5/28/2013. She went into heat on 1/18/2014 and again on 5/6/2014. Now, she is showing signs of going into heat once more. Is this normal for her age and breed? What could be causing this, and should I consider spaying her at this point?
Understanding Your Dog’s Heat Cycle
It can be confusing when our furry friends experience an irregular heat cycle, so let’s start by understanding when dogs typically reach puberty and how their heat cycles work. Most dogs reach puberty around 6 months of age, although smaller dog breeds like Yorkies may experience their first heat a bit earlier. Given your Yorkie’s age, it’s not surprising that she started her heat cycle in January 2014.
Dogs may have irregular cycles, especially as they are still maturing. Some dogs can even hide their symptoms of being in heat. It’s possible that your Yorkie is experiencing another heat cycle sooner than expected. However, if you’re concerned about the frequency of her cycles, it’s always a good idea to consult your veterinarian to rule out any medical issues.
If your Yorkie’s cycle is causing concern, you should definitely consider spaying her. Spaying your dog has numerous health benefits and can prevent complications that could otherwise be life-threatening. Desexing Your Dog is a great resource if you want to learn more about the procedure.
Health Risks of Not Spaying Your Dog
One major reason to spay your dog is to prevent pyometra, an infection of the uterus that can be deadly if left untreated. In fact, Pregnancy in Dogs not only discusses the challenges of canine pregnancies, but also the risks of leaving a female dog intact and prone to pyometra.
Besides pyometra, an unsprayed female dog can become pregnant, adding to the already overpopulated number of dogs in need of homes. By spaying your Yorkie, you can prevent her from contributing to this problem.
Lastly, spaying your dog ensures that she won’t experience the discomfort and behavioral changes that come with going into heat. Talk to your vet about the best time to spay your Yorkie; they might suggest waiting until after her current heat cycle is over.
Spaying Options and Resources
Spaying can be expensive, but there are resources and options available for low-income families or those looking for more budget-friendly options. Reach out to your local veterinarians, shelters, and pet stores to ask about possible low-cost spay programs in your area.
Keep in mind that spaying might also help prevent complications in the future, like Spay Urinary Incontinence in Dogs.
In addition to helping dogs, spaying (or neutering) can also benefit cats. If you’re a cat owner, the article Pregnancy in Cats: Advice and What to Expect is a great resource to learn more about cat pregnancies and the importance of spaying.
In conclusion, it’s normal for young dogs like your Yorkie to have irregular heat cycles, but always consult your veterinarian if you’re concerned. Spaying her will not only be beneficial for her health but also help prevent the risk of overpopulation. Reach out to local resources for potential low-cost spaying options, and talk to your vet about the best time to schedule her spay surgery.
