Common behaviors of a female dog in heat for the first time

 When a female dog goes into her first heat, it generally happens between 6 to 24 months of age. The time frame again is breed and size dependent. This is the period called estrus, during which she is sexually mature and capable of breeding. Behaviors you may see can vary, but most commonly include:

1. Increased Affection: Most females turn out to be more affectionate than usual and will look out for extra attention, being close to their owners now.

2. Swollen Vulva: Most Physical sign, vulva swelling and possibly with the discharge of bloody fluid.

3. Frequent Urination: She may urinate more often to mark territory as an alert that she is ready to mate. Such behaviors are a way of leaving her scent to set the stage for any male admirers.

4. Behavioral Changes: Your dog might show mood swings. They might change from being extra clingy to suddenly becoming extra independent and perhaps irritable. Some of them might become very restless or anxious.

5. Attraction to Male Dogs: She is more likely to be attracted to male dogs, and male dogs are more sure to notice her. She may go out of her way to find them and you may see male dogs hanging out around your house or yard.

 6. Mounting Behavior: Although more common in male dogs, some female dogs may demonstrate mounting behavior during their heat cycle – driven by hormonal changes.

7. Licking the Genitals: Due to discharge and swelling, she will lick her genitals all the time, trying to keep them clean.

8. Change in Appetite: Dogs may have less of an appetite than usual, while others are looking for more food. This really varies from one dog to another.

9. Nesting Behavior: Some female dogs show nesting behaviors, where they can collect soft objects such as blankets or toys as if making a space for their upcoming puppies.

You will need to watch her closely during this period so that you do not inadvertently breed her if you are not intending to. If you do not intend to breed her, keeping her inside or in a confined space will help you to moderate the male dogs that will be attracted to her. This season lasts from 2 to 4 weeks; in this period, she is at her most fertile.