The Rhythm Before the Journey:

Whether your Cavoodle is gearing up for her first season or you’ve just noticed her giving the neighbour’s Labrador a flirty side-eye, welcome to the world of the oestrus cycle. It’s not dramatic—it’s just nature doing its thing, with a few hormonal plot twists along the way.

This guide is here to help you decode the signs, soothe the moods, and track the phases like the calm, cycle-savvy steward you are. Think of it as your backstage pass to her seasonal rhythm—equal parts science, snuggles, and strategic panty planning.

Let’s walk through each phase with confidence, compassion, and maybe a few chuckles. Because when your dog’s uterus is running the show, it helps to have a script.

Not All Heat Cycles Wear the Same Watch

If you’ve ever tried to track a dog’s heat cycle and felt like you were chasing a moving target—congratulations, you’re officially part of the club. While textbooks might offer tidy timelines, real dogs prefer a bit more creative freedom.

Some girls breeze through their cycle like clockwork every six months. Others? They’re more... interpretive dancers. Breed, age, health, and even the seasons can influence timing, length, and intensity. It’s less “Google Calendar” and more “choose-your-own-adventure.”

To help visualize this, I’ve included two diagrams:

• First image: A general overview showing the broad range of heat cycles across all dogs. Think of it as the “average” girl’s guide.

• Second image: Poppet’s personal cycle—because she’s not average, she’s Poppet. Her rhythm is gentle, poetic, and just a little bit mysterious (like all the best ladies).

Whether your dog is a punctual princess or a whimsical wanderer, the key is observation, gentle tracking, and a sense of humor. And if your dog’s cycle seems to follow the phases of the moon or the mood of the wind—well, you’re in excellent company.

Miss Average

Poppet

Phase One: Proestrus

The body’s getting ready... but she’s not taking suitors just yet.

Welcome to the opening act of the heat cycle—Proestrus! It’s nature’s way of saying, “Something’s brewing,” but your Cavoodle’s heart is still firmly behind the velvet rope. This phase usually lasts 7 to 10 days and comes with a few unmistakable signs that her hormones are hosting a party… and she’s still deciding whether to RSVP.

What you might notice:

• A swollen vulva (yes, it’s noticeable—no, she’s not embarrassed)

• Bloody discharge (think light spotting, not a horror film)

• Frequent urination (marking her territory like a tiny, fluffy land baron)

• Mood swings—clingy one moment, brooding like a teenage poet the next

• Male dogs circling like they’ve just discovered perfume in the wind

She’s attracting attention, but she’s not ready to mingle. Emotionally, she may be a little off-kilter—more cuddly, more sensitive, or just quietly dramatic. It’s a time for gentle companionship, extra belly rubs, and maybe a few whispered affirmations like, “You’re doing great, sweet girl.”

Start tracking her cycle now—because this phase sets the tone for everything that follows. And remember she’s not being difficult, she’s just hormonally fabulous.

Phase Two: Oestrus

The window opens... and suddenly she’s the belle of the ball.

This is the main event—the fertile phase. Your Cavoodle is now open to romantic overtures, and male dogs are lining up like it’s a red-carpet premiere. Oestrus typically lasts 5 to 9 days, and it’s when ovulation occurs. Hormones are peaking, tails are flagging, and she’s feeling... receptive.

What to observe:

• Discharge lightens to a straw colour (subtle, but telling)

• Tail flagging—she’ll lift it to the side like she’s posing for a Renaissance portrait

• Increased flirtiness with male dogs

• Ovulation (the biological spotlight moment)

🌿 Phase Four: Anestrus

The curtain closes... and peace returns to the kingdom.

Anestrus is the longest phase—lasting 4 to 5 months—and it’s the quiet reset between cycles. No discharge, no swelling, no hormonal drama. Just your Cavoodle, back to her usual self, ready for training, cuddles, and maybe a few philosophical walks.

What to observe:

• No signs of heat

• Balanced mood and energy

• A great time for bonding, learning, and general life enjoyment

This is the perfect season for rest, reflection, and planning. Whether you’re considering breeding, spaying, or simply documenting her rhythms, Anestrus is your golden window.

Why This Cycle Matters

It’s not just about puppies—it’s about being prepared.

Let’s face it: tracking your dog’s heat cycle isn’t exactly dinner party conversation. But if you’re a breeder—or just a devoted dog parent—it’s one of the most important things you can do to support her health and wellbeing.

Understanding her cycle helps you:

• 🕰️ Time things accurately—no guesswork when it comes to mating

• 💞 Support her moods—whether she’s clingy, broody, or just feeling dramatic

• 🚫 Prevent surprise litters—because “oops” is not a breeding strategy

• 🧪 Monitor her hormonal health—like a tiny endocrine detective

• 🐾 Offer thoughtful care—because she deserves more than winging it

Each phase gives you clues about what her body’s doing and how she’s feeling. It’s not just biology—it’s a rhythm worth tuning into. And when you do, you’re not just managing fertility… you’re showing up for her in every season.

What Comes Next?

Ready for belly rubs, nesting instincts, and tiny heartbeats? Let’s walk it together.

Now that you’ve decoded the drama of discharge and tail flagging, it’s time to move into the next chapter: pregnancy. Our Week-by-Week Series will guide you through each stage of gestation—from the quiet curiosity of Week 1 to the joyful whirlwind of whelping.

Each article will explore:

• 🐣 Developmental milestones (yes, even the invisible ones)

• 🥦 Nutritional and environmental support (because she’s growing more than just a belly)

• 🧘‍♀️ Emotional shifts and behavioural cues (spoiler: nesting is real, and so is the sass)

• 🐾 Ethical breeding practices (timing, testing, and thoughtful planning)

Whether you’re preparing for your first litter, refining your breeding program, or simply waiting for your girl to go through a couple of heat cycles before spaying, this series is here to support you with clarity, calm, and a touch of charm.

Giving her time to mature hormonally before spaying can support bone health, joint development, and emotional stability—setting her up for a balanced, healthy life.

Because whether she’s expecting puppies or just expecting snacks, every season deserves thoughtful care