QuestionI think my 10 month old yorkie is in heat. She has been spotting for the past 4 days. She has also had a problem with bowel movements in the past few days. Is hard stool and constipation symptoms of this period? She is also extremely tired and a little grouchy and stubborn. Are these normal characteristics?
AnswerAisha,
She is probably in heat. The heat cycle last three weeks with the first week being the heaviest flow and the bleeding is usually bright red. I am not aware of constipation being a normal part of the heat cycle but each dog is different so it is possible. As far as her being grouchy and stubborn that can also be normal for her.
Dogs generally go into their first heat anywhere from six months to eighteen months. The first heat cycle can be inconsistent but their is one common factor. When they are in heat their pee pee will swell up. It usually takes about a week for this to happen but it will happen. The only thing you need to worry about is the constipation. Keep an eye on her to make sure she is pooping. Being constipated is not a problem (although it may be uncomfortable for the dog) in and of itself but you need to keep an eye on her to make sure she does not stop pooping all together.
