It's generally not recommended to bathe your dog while she's in heat (menstruating). During this time, her immune system is often weaker, making her more susceptible to catching a chill and developing illnesses. Furthermore, bathing can potentially increase the risk of vaginal infections.
While it technically is possible to bathe a dog during her heat cycle, it's best for owners to avoid it. The reason is that a dog's immunity is compromised during her period, and bathing can easily lead to catching a cold or other illnesses. Additionally, when the cervix is open during the heat cycle, bathing can increase the chance of bacteria entering the uterus. While this might not cause immediate severe symptoms, it could lead to uterine inflammation and infection, potentially increasing the risk of pyometra (a life-threatening uterine infection) later in life. Therefore, it’s best to avoid bathing during this period. If you feel your dog needs cleaning due to dirt or odor, gently use warm water to rinse her or wipe her down with a damp towel instead.
What to Pay Attention to During a Dog's Heat Cycle
During menstruation, dogs lose a significant amount of nutrients. Therefore, their diet should not be monotonous. Owners should consider feeding foods like minced cooked chicken, goat milk powder, or boiled meat. Supplement with fresh fruits and vegetables to provide fiber. Because heat cycles last for an extended period, it’s important to pay attention to their diet during this time. Avoid feeding cold or irritating foods, as these could be detrimental to her health.
A dog’s heat cycle coincides with her estrus (fertility) period. Hormonal fluctuations during estrus cause significant emotional changes in dogs. Your dog might become overly excited or vocal. Owners should engage in daily play and interaction to comfort and soothe her. Offer small treats and toys to distract her and reduce any anxiety she might experience.