What To Expect From a Chihuahua’s Heat Cycle

Female Chihuahuas can make wonderful, loving family pets. In fact, many people prefer them because they don’t mark their territory like their male counterparts. If you plan on raising a female Chihuahua, though, you’ll need to be aware of their heat cycle. This is a critical time in their life that requires special care and attention; otherwise, you could end up with a litter of unwanted puppies around the home.

Female Chihuahua

Like all dogs, female Chihuahuas must be properly cared for when they go into heat. This is when they are most fertile and will draw the attention of any nearby males. In addition, Chihuahuas in heat will also bleed, which means you’ll have to come up with a solution to prevent it from getting on the floor. Keep reading and we’ll take a closer look at what to expect during a Chihuahua’s heat cycle.

When Will My Chihuahua Have Her First Heat Cycle?

It’s important to note that all Chihuahuas are different, and unfortunately there’s no easy way to tell exactly when your Chihuahua will have her first heat cycle. Some of them will experience it early, while it may take others well over a year. With that said, most female Chihuahuas will have their first heat cycle between the ages of 6 months to one year.

If your Chihuahua still hasn’t gone through her first heat cycle by the age of 18 months, talk to your veterinarian to see if there’s an underlying health problem. A simple checkup by a professional vet can reveal whether your Chihuahua has a defect or if she’s a late bloomer. On rare occasions, female Chihuahuas may not experience their first heat cycle until they are 2 years old. For your Chihuahua’s sake, though, take her to the vet to check for any serious health problems.

Also, you should NEVER allow your Chihuahua to breed during her first heat cycle. This is a sensitive time when her organs and body are adjusting to this natural process. Allowing her to become impregnated places her at greater risk for complications. If you care about the health and well-being of your Chihuahua, wait until her second heat cycle at the very least.

Chihuahua Heat Cycle

Evaluating The Different Stages of a Chihuahua’s Heat Cycle

Contrary to what some people may believe, there are actually several different stages of a Chihuahua’s heat cycle. While most owners assume there is only one, there are actually a total of 4 different stages, all of which are unique in their own way.

Generally, female Chihuahuas will go into heat (lasting approximately 3 weeks) about once or twice a year.

Here are the stages of a typical female Chihuahua’s heat cycle:

Proestrus – The first stage of a Chihuahua’s heat cycle, Proestrus, may or may not be easy for owners to identify. Some Chihuahuas will exhibit clear, concise symptoms that include bleeding, swollen nipples, excessive licking and a general shift in mood change. Others, however, may exhibit few (if any) symptoms.

The most effective way to determine if a Chihuahua is going through the Proestrus stage is to closely observe and monitor their behavior. Typically, Chihuahuas at this stage of their heat cycle will begin to chase males around in a playful or even somewhat aggravating manner. It’s not uncommon to find your female Chihuahua constantly badgering any nearby males.

Estrus – The second stage, known as Estrus, occurs about one week after the Proestrus stage. During this time, Chihuahuas are fertile and ready to breed. While most Chihuahuas won’t allow the male to mate with her during the Proestrus stage, they will however allow it during the Estrus stage.

Identifying a Chihuahua in heat during the Estrus stage shouldn’t be overly difficult. They will have swollen, bleeding genitals and the desire to couple with nearby male Chihuahuas. Males will also be more attracted to the female due to the scent of her discharge.

Diestrus – As long as the female Chihuahua did not become impregnated, she will enter the Diestrus stage immediately following Estrus. This is essentially a rest period that lasts for 30-90 days when the Chihuahua’s body is given time to recuperate. She will no longer seek the attention of males, and her body parts will gradually begin to go back to their normal size.

If a female Chihuahua was impregnated, she will skip the Diestrus stage and enter the early stages of pregnancy. Pregnant Chihuahuas will continue to exhibit large, puffy nipples and swollen genitals.

Anestrus – The last stage in a Chihuahua’s heat cycle, Anestrus, is a cooling down period when the body and organs are finally getting back to normal. Owners won’t notice any visible signs of a heat cycle when their Chihuahua is going through Anestrus. Chihuahua will have normal-sized genitals, no bleeding or discharge and regular moods.

The Anestrus stage will last somewhere between 2-6 months until they begin the heat cycle over again.

Happy Female Chihuahua

Tips on Dealing With a Chihuahua’s Heat Cycle

The good news is that most Chihuahuas will only be in heat for approximately 3 weeks. The bad news, however, is that you’ll need to give them extra care and attention to ensure everything runs smoothly. Far too many owners brush off the heat cycle as a “natural” occurrence without giving their Chihuahua the care she needs during this special time.

Follow these tips for a better, smoother heat cycle:

  • From the time you notice the first sight of your Chihuahua’s heat cycle, keep her separated from any nearby males (unless you want her to get pregnant of course). This means always walking her on a leash and never allowing her to run off.
  • Female Chihuahuas can be a bit more cranky during their heat cycle, so use caution when handling them.
  • Use a doggie diaper or wrap your Chihuahua’s bottom up in a blanket to prevent her from bleeding everywhere.
  • Don’t make the assumption that your Chihuahua is no longer fertile just because she’s no longer bleeding. Depending on her biology, she could still be fertile for weeks after bleeding. The bottom line is that you need to keep her separated from males until you are completely sure she is no longer fertile.

References:

http://pets.webmd.com/dogs/how-tell-if-dogs-heat

http://dogs.lovetoknow.com/wiki/Female_Dog_Heat_Cycle

Comments

    • Christina M Doherty
    • July 30, 2021
    Reply

    So I’ve got a question it seems as my chi goes into heat about every 2-3 months is that normal?? She seems to have synced up with my monthly and it’s about every 2-3 months, but im trying to breed her and it is a lot harder than I expected is there any advise to help with the breeding??

    • Lori
    • July 9, 2021
    Reply

    Is wet or dry food better?

    • Mandy
    • October 25, 2020
    Reply

    I have a small Chihuahua female she is old I don’t know if she’s got her period or in heat all I know she’s moody is anything she won’t let me near her she bit me two weeks ago only had her since July any recommendations

      • Kristina Echevarria
      • November 18, 2020
      Reply

      My Chichi is about 3 yrs she just started her cycle. She gets aggressive with me. She won’t let me touch her at certain moments or I can’t even carry her. Every move I make she cries. At night she won’t let me sleep she gets on top of me so I can pet her back then she turns around and tries to put her behind on my face and curls her tail. She starts poking me with her nose I can’t even cut her nails she sharpens them with her teeth so I took her to the vet so they can trim her nails but she won’t let them trim them either she gets nervous starts crying so loud. The only one that can carry her, touch her or give her attention is my son with no problems. She is always on top of him. She follows him everywhere. I have tried to carry her and when I do she starts crying so loud she scratches me and tries to get away and jumps and runs away. I feel like she is scared I might hurt her but all I want to do is give her some attention. I even talk to her and tell her I’m not going to hurt her that I just want to carry her and hold her in my arms but she won’t let me at all. The only time she lets me pet her is at night she sleeps in between my legs or on top of me I pet her softly but then all of a sudden she jumps like a maniac and runs away. She has been doing this since I’ve had her. I don’t know what to do. Can someone help?

        • Carrie
        • March 24, 2021
        Reply

        Hey Kristina- it may be the sudden movements that are triggering her. If you have her favorite toy or blankie, even some chew treats with a strong smell with her when she is happily with your son and then when she is sleeping place her comfort item (that is something that reminds her she is safe ) near by she will smell it and see it and it may calm her to knowing she is safe with you as well. My teacup chihuahua will only be with me which although is quite endearing its also difficult to be a mom of 4 at times. I Went to the dollarama and bought a fluffy leopard print blanket (two actually just incase) and now my Isla is fine as long as her blankie is snuggled into her. It has helped her so she knows she is safe. When the kids get loud she will go under it and go to sleep on the couch. It has literally given me sanity so I hope it helps you! ~All the best~ Fellow doggie mama Care

        • Danuta Lesnicki
        • September 13, 2021
        Reply

        We adopted the brother of a female chi a few months later. I had been seeing him so he was familiar with me but would display similar behavior towards my husband and kids. We have had him now for about a month and he just started to lay down by my husband and not run away when he wanted to pet him. He has also warmed up to my adult kids at different speeds. My recommendation is to not force the issue. Give him time. Keep treats with you and have him follow you rather than trying to pick him up.

        Just spending time with you in the same room will allow him to grow familiar and he will see that you are not going to harm him. There will be some days when he’s closer and other days when he’s not sure but it’s important to let him come to you at his pace. Another option is for your son to hold him and you just pet him but don’t try to take him. Your son should do this with as many visitors as possible to try to socialize him further. Peace and blessings, Danuta

          • Keeley
          • June 24, 2023
          Reply

          My chihuahua is 17 months old and I don’t think she’s had a heat yet is this normal?

        • Bridget
        • September 26, 2021
        Reply

        My smallest Chi won’t let me carry her. If I sit and let her come to me, I can pet her all I want. If I make a movement that would allow me to pick her up, she quickly moves to run. If I just let her go and see I’m not trying to hold her she’ll come back. I’ve had her since she was 7 weeks old. I guess it’s just her personality.

        • Mike
        • August 10, 2022
        Reply

        Cezar Millan just had a show about chihuahua and the dog was acting like yours ……he in a special way had to put the dog in the pool to freak her out to open herself up to wanting human affection you said your son is ok with her but not you it could be a different situation the owners were professional dancers that travel so you know it’s the correct episode

        • Jennifer Travelstead
        • February 4, 2023
        Reply

        Sounds like she has imprinted on your son♥️She loves you but she chose him. Unfortunately this leaves others feeling a bit left out. My question would be this is your son a sensitive? Or does he have health issues? Lots of times animals will choose someone they feel they need to protect.

      • Dianna
      • August 14, 2021
      Reply

      I have a female dear head chi not sure of age. From tip if tail down about 2 inches has a scab like crust what is it and what do I do?

      • Sandy
      • April 7, 2023
      Reply

      My pug and my Shih Tzu got pyometra after their heats. Constant bleeding, irritable, and a loss of energy. This condition is very serious and could die without medical intervention.

      • Armeshia Morgan
      • September 4, 2023
      Reply

      I have a terrier Chihuahua and her private area is real Swoll and has small drops of pinkish blood

    • Lindy
    • October 22, 2020
    Reply

    My chihuahua/papillon is 6 1/2 months old. She hasn’t gone into heat yet, but is acting really strange. She is pretty active, but the last day or two, she is whining, growling a little as us when go to pick her up. She usually begs for whatever we are eating and tries her best to get it. She gets stuff off the floor and eats it before we can catch her, etc…….but mostly (this is kinda weird),but she “hunches” on her stuffed toys and pillows. Do you think this is normal? Or she is in the first stages of her cycle?

      • Carrye Abdullah-Lake
      • November 4, 2020
      Reply

      My 8 month old Chihuahua Sage is the exact same way. I never knew before that female dogs “hunched” pillows, lol. She just started her period yesterday so I have these teeny tiny diapers and I put it on her. She bit me while I was placing it on her. She was not trying to have it…at all. But she is getting used to the diaper now.

        • Deb
        • January 15, 2023
        Reply

        My baby just started her first heat cycle. She is 11 months old. I also put diapers on her. She hates them. She will not move if I put clothes on her, so I’m happy she is at least walking around with the diaper on, although she is walking funny. She walks sideways. The only mood changes I’ve seen is she’s not as active as usual. She sleeps more. She’s still as sweet & loving as always.

      • Meredith
      • February 1, 2022
      Reply

      I love those two breeds together, I have looked everywhere for a Chion but they are very hard to find. Do you mind telling me where you got her? I wish I knew enough to answer your question. Unless you plan to breed her get her spayed, it’s safer for the doggy.

    • Karen
    • September 9, 2020
    Reply

    When is the best time to have my pet fixed ,after she finishes her heat.when about how many weeks after ?

    • Eve
    • June 27, 2020
    Reply

    I just got an 11 yr old female chi 3 weeks ago. Her owner had her since she was a puppy. They tell me she’s never gone into heat? Should I still have her spayed? How will spaying her at such an advanced age affect her temperment?

      • Christy Samson
      • October 17, 2021
      Reply

      How much blood should be in diaper?

      • Julie
      • March 30, 2023
      Reply

      No! They meant that they had her spayed before her first heat. Sometimes, it’s better for smaller dogs to spay them before their first heat. They tend to get less aggressive.

    • Beverly miles
    • June 24, 2020
    Reply

    My chi is in heat she is 2 to 3 yrs old she came from a bad situation she’s now. Been with me a year we’ve already been thru one heat cycle it was rough now she is in her 2nd heat but I took her to the vet she had a c section from whoever had her before she only weighs 6lbs 15 my question I’ve never owned a chi she is loving me climbing up to my face and just looking at me I hold her and talk to her what can you give them to make them feel better him a month she’s getting spayed

      • Melinda
      • October 20, 2021
      Reply

      My chi doesn’t need diapers, she is very clean with her cycle. Very self hygiene aware.

    • Tamiko Holling
    • June 19, 2020
    Reply

    I have a 2 yr old chihuahua is in heat. Is it normal for her to be moving her tail strangely. She moves it the way an aggressive cat moves their tail before they pounce. Is this normal to her heat cycle? Also she cries all the time. She can be a bit of a spoiled brat normally but now it has gotten out of hand. She whines for everything & she want to always be carried. I have another female chihuahua & I have raised other female dogs but never have I gone through what I’m going through now. Is all this normal for her?

      • Sandi Smith
      • December 19, 2020
      Reply

      Sometimes a female will turn her tail to one side, i believe to let other male dogs know she ready to mate. I rescued my Chihuahua from the streets 4yrs ago, she was in heat and big dogs was after her, i knew they would kill her if they got to her, they was the size of like a German Shepherd, she’s in heat now), and this is her 3rd heat cycle since i took her in, she not aggressive with me, she wants me to hold her all the time and scratch on her back all the time, i also have male dogs and i have to keep her in a pet carrier most of the time, i don’t want her to get pregnant, mainly because my male dogs are dachshunds and beagles, one dachshund is small like her, but i still don’t want her to get pregnant, i hope this has been helpful

      • Kelly Harris
      • October 29, 2021
      Reply

      I’m going through the same thing..

      • Melissa
      • April 6, 2023
      Reply

      The tail thing is a part of the presenting phase. When they are in their heat. They will move their tail up and to the side. As to present herself to the male.

    • Pattey
    • May 9, 2020
    Reply

    I have a 19 year old chihuahua. She’s not fixed. She’s been bleeding now for 10 days. How long will she bleed? She was given to me a few months ago so I don’t know how long she will be in heat.

    • Monique Abelina Ortiz
    • May 8, 2020
    Reply

    How much blood should my ten year old chiwawa bleed ? Shes been bleeding for two weeks now i love her so much im worried shes bleeding too much.

    • krissie cahoon
    • February 4, 2020
    Reply

    My runt Chihuahua has been bleeding for 5 weeks now with no end in sight. When will this end. She is only 5 months old

      • Lynda
      • November 22, 2022
      Reply

      They should only be in heat 3 weeks. I would take her to the vet.

      • Melissa
      • April 6, 2023
      Reply

      I would get her checked by a vet. That is abnormally long. I have a 2 year old chi and she had this problem. I ended up having to put her on antibiotics. And she was fine since. That was a year ago. Now she is having a normal heat cycle.

    • Gladys
    • January 16, 2020
    Reply

    If my chihuahua doesn’t come all the way in heat is something wrong with her medically?

    • Deasha
    • January 10, 2020
    Reply

    I have a small chihuahua she is around a yr old and she has been swollen for 2 weeks and bleeding bright red and my Male shows no interest in her is this normal

      • Deb
      • January 15, 2023
      Reply

      Is your male neutered? If so that’s why. My Chi is 11 months old and in her first heat. She’s 3lbs & my other male Jack Russell is neutered and not interested in her either. My friend has a male Chihuahua who is neutered also but he is interested. I guess it all depends on the male dog.

      • Matthew
      • May 18, 2023
      Reply

      My Chihuahua has been heat, started on May 2 2023 until now May 18 2023. Her V is still big. Is this normal?

    • April
    • January 6, 2020
    Reply

    Hi, my baby girl is 8 months and is already in 2nd heat. Is this normal?

    • Sherry Austin
    • December 17, 2019
    Reply

    How long do they normally bleed??

    • Sharlene Salazar
    • July 23, 2019
    Reply

    My chihuahua she is in heat and she is bleeding I pamper her cause she whines and I don’t know if she is in pain and her little area she is swollen I put a pamper on her that is made for her when she goes in heat. How do I know if she is in pain? I carry her all day me and my husband and my two boys. We hold her and let her down to run around for a bit, I need to know what to do . I feel so bad for her. Can anyone give me some advice I sure can use it. Thank you so much. Please email me at any time thank you.

      • Sheila
      • October 2, 2022
      Reply

      Get her spayed.

    • Gabby
    • July 14, 2019
    Reply

    So this is the first time my dog bleeds and well i noticed when i went to carry her and i see a lil drop of blood coming from her area but she went off and licked it , shes been laying down all day and hasnt left my side , i try to put a doggy diaper on her but she growls at me 😕she isnt bleeding like crazy should i just leave her alone?

    • Jo Ann Pratt-Grey
    • June 26, 2019
    Reply

    My female is 7 years old and never had pups. About 2 weeks ago she startednesting in my closet. Shes due for a heat. She was swollen and today she is producing milk! She hasnt been around a male dog. Our male pitbull raised her from 6 wks old he was 6 at the time. He died 3 months ago, I was wondering if her false pregnancy could be caused by the loss of him?

      • stephanie carleton
      • February 20, 2021
      Reply

      my chi is10 moths old and going through her first heat cycle. her teats are enlarged. is this normal and how long will it last.

    • Blanca I Swingley
    • June 8, 2019
    Reply

    My chihuahua its 12 years old and she is still in heat I need to know how much longer will she getting in heat

    • Cassandra Sena
    • June 4, 2019
    Reply

    My baby is 8 months old Bella Rose started her first two weeks ago is crying all the time and looks at me like it’s my fault she won’t let me pick her up is there anything I could do to make her more comfortable

    • Molly Gilbert
    • April 14, 2019
    Reply

    I have an almost 14-year-old chi. Bless her heart she’s still going in heat. And crying for someone to love her. Breaks my heart. do they ever stop have this heat mess?

      • Bridget Whelchel
      • September 26, 2021
      Reply

      My vet says they have it for their entire lives.

    • Phillip Arnone
    • April 14, 2019
    Reply

    After her heat cycle, she’s not playing, not eating alot, kinda droopy.

      • Kathleen
      • March 25, 2021
      Reply

      Put a little bit of honey on your finger and let the pup lick it. While the pup is appearing droopy dilute some honey into her water bowl.

    • Brenda L DILL
    • April 12, 2019
    Reply

    I have a 8 month 2 pound chi. My first time ever owning a female dog. Never been around them. 6 Days ago we went to visit my sister. My baby got tagged. It was over before I seen it. Now she is swollen and bleeding. She is too little only 2 pound. What should I do?

      • Deb
      • January 15, 2023
      Reply

      Was she in heat at the time she was “tagged?” If not, you should not be worried. It does sound like she has just started her first heat cycle. I also have a very small Chihuahua barely 3lbs. She’s 11 months old and just started her first heat last week.

    • Monica Bandeau
    • April 1, 2019
    Reply

    Chi Dixie is just over a year and a half she is now in her 3rd heat cycle and oh it’s been a Doozy. she use to run play with me and her new kitten but tody she bit me my husband and when the kitten trys to play with her she attacks him please tell me she will go back to normal soon

      • Samantha Miller
      • May 13, 2021
      Reply

      I have been through the same thing with my precious chihuahua. I though her personality would never ever go back to the fun loving sweet little chichi that she was. I tool her to the vets, they said its to do with her season an hormones and it can take a few months after a season to get back to normal. So I assure you, she will get back to normal, it will just take time.

    • Sarah
    • March 28, 2019
    Reply

    I have a five year old female and a male dog who I keep separated he is a bigger breed she is ok but it is driving my male dog crazy and he won’t eat or sleep how long will he be affected by her scent,

    • Jennifer
    • March 25, 2019
    Reply

    I have a 3 year old Chihuahua and she’s gone into heat but can they have diarrhea along with this and what should I do

    • Myia
    • March 23, 2019
    Reply

    My chihuahua is 3years old i have spoiled her when it comes to her diet i make her food now if she doesn’t like what i make her she will starve her self until i make what she likes and she will not eat dog food what do i do

    • Rosemary
    • March 6, 2019
    Reply

    This was all so helpful!!! I panicked when I saw swollen vulva and blood. Her name is Bella and she’s so cute. I sure do love her

    • Dotty
    • March 5, 2019
    Reply

    My chihuahua is 9 months and went into heat for the first time on Sunday.. she’s been sleeping with me since she’s a baby but since going into heat iv had to put her in her crate 😢 I feel absolutely heartbroken for her am I doing the right thing?? I wanted to start Leaving her to sleep downstairs since she’s getting older but I feel terrible like I’m abandoning her

      • Deb
      • January 15, 2023
      Reply

      Why are you putting her in a crate? If you’re worried about the bleeding, buy diapers for her. I bought diapers on Amazon when I got my baby. TweetyPie is 11 months old and just started her first heat cycle last week. I put a diaper on her when she’s on the couch or bed. Otherwise I let her go around without one. She’s not bleeding very much. Just small amounts. She barely weighs 3lbs so I think that’s why she isn’t bleeding very much. Your baby needs extra love and attention right now, especially since it’s her 1st heat cycle. She doesn’t understand what is happening to her.

    • Dana
    • March 4, 2019
    Reply

    This my first Chihuahua, 8 1/2 months, 2nd stage in heat 1st time, her name is Zya, seeks more attention, agitated a lil bit more, but thanks for the info.

    • Christina Jeffers
    • January 18, 2019
    Reply

    My 10 yr old chi, Neka, did not have her first heat until 3. She has also gone years without having a heat. Her last heat, last year was the worst. She was around another in heat chi, lasted 2 months! UGG. This year, I have a young male deer head and has been more of a headache than last year. She is my best friend in the world, and all go through different stages. Love them to the moon and back because they will ALWAYS have your back, ALWAYS….

      • Phillip Arnone
      • March 30, 2019
      Reply

      After heat cycle, like my three year old, she’s kinda not the same tired, not totally herself🤔

      • Deborah L Luzey
      • April 11, 2019
      Reply

      I agree I have had both male and female chi’s. I now have a 2 1/2 yr old female that just went into her 2nd heat since birth and she’s so funny there are no male dogs around she keeps acting like she’s giving me her back area to help her uncomfortable feeling, she is always backing her end up to me when I call her over to me this is the first time I have had a chi in heat do this I feel so bad that I can’t assist her it quite funny at times but I would never want another breed of dog, I’m hooked on chi’s, they have my heart best one owner dogs ever.

      • Brenda Barton
      • July 23, 2019
      Reply

      I have two applehead chiwawa’s. But one of them doesn’t eat sometimes and whines. Was wondering if she’s in heat. I can’t afford to take her to vet again. The first time she was whining all night I took her to the vet, which cost me 500$ just to tell me her bloodwork ok, and charge me fifty dollars for dog tylonal but not what the problem was!

      • Connie
      • January 26, 2020
      Reply

      I have an all-black female deer head going through her 1st heat. I won’t breed her until she is at least 2 but I am looking for a male to breed her with. Are you near St. Paul MN?. She black long-legged and I describe her as sleek and slender with a great disposition. She is very loving and playful. I don’t know how I would get through some days without her. Anyway, I have gotten off track a little. I am curious if you are near me and are you interested in breeding your male in a year or so?

    • Ruth
    • January 10, 2019
    Reply

    Hi, I have a 7 month female chihuahua who I noticed her vulva becoming swollen the past couple of weeks. I noticed on Sunday that there was blood there. I also have a Dogue De Bordeaux who is not fixed. He has been sniffing her more than usual and I’ve bought some tablets to try and disguise her scent as I don’t want my male ddb to become distressed and try and mate. If he starts to act this way one of them will stay with a friend. Does anybody know at what stage he may get to this stage? Should it be now or further down the line?

      • Debbie Luzey
      • April 11, 2019
      Reply

      Ruth please in my experience it’s best if u separate them asap due to the stages of heat move along differently with some chi’s than others generally they have a 3week time frame of heat when they can get pregnant and it only takes a matter of a second for your male to mount her so u are better off separating them early than to late good luck and I hope all goes to plan

      • Sharlene Salazar
      • July 23, 2019
      Reply

      My little one is swollen to all I do is put little Pampers on her they sell them in the dog aisle they are called comfort-dri leak-proof fit she can also pee in them and it has a hole for the dog’s tail and for her to go poo poo.

      • Deann
      • January 30, 2020
      Reply

      My 7 month old female chihuahua is in heat now. It wasn’t until the 2nd week of it that the one male I have that’s not fixed because he’s a stud started getting distressed and rather aggravating. Loud whining and bouncing off the walls so to speak. So between the 2nd and 3rd week it drives the males nuts.

        • Linda hammonds
        • February 19, 2021
        Reply

        I have a 7 month chihuahuas mix shishu just came in heat 5 days ago her first one and I have her brother too when I got home I immediately separated them cause they normally are together behind a baby gate until I return my Male is marking everything in the house my female she plays and eats and jumps just as normal she swollen to the size of a quarter sometimes she bleeds and then its a discharge this has got me into a nervous wreak and I am so sad for them cause they are bond from birth and they don’t understand why I separate them

      • Summer Luedemann
      • March 13, 2020
      Reply

      He will try to mate no matter what. You should separate them as soon as you notice signs she’s going into heat. Or you’re a pup granma. Get one fixed if you’re not wanting to take care of puppies. Good luck.

      • Deb
      • January 15, 2023
      Reply

      If he isn’t neutered you need to keep him away from her. It is very dangerous for a Chi to get pregnant during her first heat. You should not allow her to get pregnant until at least her 3rd heat. Please protect your sweetie.

    • chloe
    • January 3, 2019
    Reply

    it may matter that she is a runt . not sure but i might call the vet and ask

    • Melanie
    • December 25, 2018
    Reply

    I have a 2 year old chihuahua that is 2 lbs. and she has been in heat and now she hollers out in pain and if I hold her and she is okay. This is the first time she has done this. She eats with no problem. I didn’t know if she could have pains like a human does. Anyone have thoughts on this? Thank you

      • Debbie Luzey
      • April 11, 2019
      Reply

      Melanie, I have a 2 1/2 yr old female chi in heat as I write u and she as well whimpers and cries. it is also tough for ur chi, more due to her being so tiny the pain is probably more intense feeling due to her size and also if its her first heat ever this one is more painful especially. Due to it being new to her and her not realizing exactly what’s happening to her I hope all goes well with her and just continue to comfort her and I also have given my chi warm comfort baths with her bottom area resting in the warm water for a bit it seems like it relieves a bit of my females discomfort so u can give that a try with yours best of luck keep loving your chichi they are so loyal to their owners i LOVE the breed stay happy ☺ always

      • Deb
      • January 15, 2023
      Reply

      If your male dog is not neutered then I would keep him away from her. If that’s not possible he put diaper on her.

    • JoeyMarie
    • November 28, 2018
    Reply

    Omgosh..Bella is my 13 year old Chihuahua and still goes in heat 3 times a year. Luckily, we only have female companions for her but that doesn’t stop her from trying. Lol. Will she go through this for her entire life or will she go through doggie menopause of some kind?

    • Claudia Reid
    • November 10, 2018
    Reply

    My Roxie started her first heat about a week ago. She has been acting weird.. She looks at me like mom what is going on. She wants to be babies all the time. I have a male who is fixed and he hasn’t acted crazy around her.Should I keep holding her because that is all she wants.

      • Tina
      • December 26, 2018
      Reply

      If she wants cuddles to be reassured then give her cuddles. That’s just my opinion. X

        • Robin
        • September 2, 2019
        Reply

        My chihuahuas always want extra cuddles. And that is exactly what they get. They seem more relaxed and usually fall asleep. So I say yes to extra cuddles.

      • Diana
      • January 7, 2019
      Reply

      Yes are female has become very attached to us she was 11 weeks old and is now almost 10 months but during this time with her first heat cycle she has become extremely close to my husband and I and looks at us most of the time

      • Debbie Luzey
      • April 11, 2019
      Reply

      My female is in heat now going on just over a week and is also obsessed with being held during her heat its because they are extremely uncomfortable and in. A way don’t know why so they want to be held, loved, cuddled it is ok to give her more holding time and attention than u normally do but don’t overdo it because she will want it all the time even when her heat is over good luck best wishes for u and your chichi

      • Cassie Ford
      • June 13, 2020
      Reply

      Honestly, I would. Chihuahuas are so small and delicate that they need reassuring everything is okay. I have a 1-year-old female chihuahua (she will be 2 years old in September). And I have a Male chihuahua who just turned a year in March of 2020. I want to breed them at least once because of their genes. But when my female is in heat I feel and assume that she feels cramps kind of like us. When my female is in heat she lays on my heating pad constantly (I got pregnant last year and I developed really bad sciatic nerve pain, I had my daughter in January of this year). She also gets very clingy to me when she is in heat

      • Deb
      • January 15, 2023
      Reply

      Yes, you should keep holding her. My Tweety is in her first heat cycle too. She wants me to hold her a lot. She’s not acting like she’s in pain. She’s just sleeping a lot more. Our babies need more love & attention during their heat cycle. The only time she cry’s is when I leave in the morning to go to the doctor without her. I always take her every morning to go get the mail. She gets her walks then. If I need to go to the store I put her in her carrier and she goes with me. So if I have to go to the doctor and I can’t take her she crys loudly. She stays with my dad and he picks her up to quiet her.

    • Terry Koehn
    • November 3, 2018
    Reply

    Why would my males (Chihuahua’s) keep trying for mouth or two after her heat?

    • Anabelle Santos
    • October 12, 2018
    Reply

    Thanks for the info it was very useful.

    • Bobbi
    • October 9, 2018
    Reply

    My 10 month 3.8 lb Applehead is having her second heat. She is moody and licks her genitals often.
    She is constantly playing with my friend’s 4 yr old male of the same breed. My friend and I would like her to be impregnated by her male Chi. She is bleeding slightly as of two weeks ago. Her mood has changed altho she is still very playful. I actually saw her weeping today when we returned from her visit and looked sad. Do Chihuahuas cry?

      • Jess
      • December 11, 2018
      Reply

      It’s not reccomended to breed a chihuahua under 4lb

        • Deb
        • January 15, 2023
        Reply

        Not true. Vet said as long as I wait for her 3rd heat and breed her with a dog the same size as her, she’ll be fine. She will only have 1or 2 puppies. Three if we’re lucky. Also, I need to be prepared for any emergency during delivery. The Vet will be on standby for any such emergency. My Chihuahua is barely 3lbs. She is 100% Chihuahua and AKC certified with zero traits of any hereditary diseases. She comes from a Champion bloodline.

        • Deb
        • January 15, 2023
        Reply

        Before breeding your dog you should get the dog health tested for any potential diseases prevalent in the breed. This helps ensure healthy puppies. Different breeds have different health problems associated with them. In many breeds Hip Dysplasia is a problem and is generally tested at 24 months. Chihuahuas have several health issues. This helps to be sure you are not breeding a dog with a health problem that potentially could be passed down to the puppies. Male dogs can breed as young as 6-7 months though it is recommended that you wait until they are mature in mind and body which at a minimum I would say is 18-24 months old. The AKC will not recognize a litter sired from a male that is under 7 months of age or over 12 years old unless special documentation is provided. Female Dogs go into heat at any time between 6-12 months usually. Again, you want to wait until they are mature before having to raise pups of their own. Also breeding a younger female can result in additional problem such as smaller litter size and additional health problems in the mother. I recommend 24 months as well for females. The AKC will not recognize a litter from a female that is under 8 months of age or over 12 years old unless special documentation is provided. Many people breed dogs as small as yours, however, chihuahua frequently need c-sections to deliver their puppies, so I would plan on the expense of an x-ray the last week of pregnancy and the cost of a c-section just in case it is necessary. Hope this information is helpful to you.

      • Debbie Luzey
      • April 11, 2019
      Reply

      Absolutely when they are in heat they cry often it is extremely uncomfortable for them even causes them pain as like a human on their monthly cycle you should wait for her second heat its recommended that letting them get pregnant on their first heat cycle can cause medical problems so waiting until they heat their second time is best but if she happens to get pregnant on her first heat tell the vet and just watch her fully and as much as u possibly can good luck best wishes

      • Sherri
      • May 15, 2019
      Reply

      I would check with a reputable vet. That pup is too small to carry puppies.

      • Leiann
      • July 10, 2019
      Reply

      My chihuahua was weeping her 1st heat. I never saw a dog cry & weep like that. 1st I didnt know why & was about to take her to vet when my husband pointed out it was probablly her 1st heat. He was right & it still broke my heart. I just gave her lots of cuddles & tried to keep her as comfortable as possible. 2nd heat was fine, no weeping & got her some cute reusable doggie diapers. 😊

      • Nilsa Garcia
      • November 13, 2019
      Reply

      Chihuahuas do in fact weep when you cry so do they. Also at other times. When my chi had her buddy stolen she cried and howled for weeks

      • Kristen
      • December 1, 2019
      Reply

      Yes! My 2 yr old chihuahua cries. Not often at all, infact only 3 times, but it’s like actual crying..tears and all when she does. I’ve never seen this in any dog ever. The first time, is when I was having to leave her alone without our male minpin who shes grown up with, even though it was just an hour, when we got back her entire head was drenched with tears! I know most people will say “dogs dont cry, you should have her looked at by a vet. ” But I’m sure you’re lil chi sees a vet regularly like mine. So I totally get what you meant when you said your cried. They’re such wonderful little things. Hope you’ve had luck with your breeding!

    • SAMUEL W Forlines
    • October 7, 2018
    Reply

    My Bella had one heat and is only 2 months away from 2 years old. She hasn’t had a second one yet. Should I be worried and have her checked? Not sure if it matters, but she was the runt out of 2 puppies.

      • Debbie Luzey
      • April 11, 2019
      Reply

      No need unless she goes 2 yrs without going back into heat they only go in heat once a year to a year and half but of course if u are nervous then to comfort u by all means take her to the Vet good luck best wishes

      • Rob Carter
      • September 14, 2020
      Reply

      We’re wondering how long our chi will be bleeding. First heat

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