A heat is a short, predictable stretch for the dog, but it matters for neighbors in a kennel. Knowing the timeline helps you plan the trip, and telling the kennel early avoids a last-minute problem.
How long a heat lasts
Cornell's Riney Canine Health Center says most dogs go through heat about twice a year, and the bloody discharge lasts roughly 14 to 21 days in total. Proestrus, when males are interested but the female is not yet receptive, averages 6 to 11 days. Estrus, the receptive stage, averages 5 to 9 days with a wide range. The AKC describes the same pattern and notes that the length varies from dog to dog.
Why kennels ask
In a kennel, neighbors are near, so a dog in season can excite intact males, and a female in heat may behave differently herself. Some day cares and dog parks do not accept females in heat, which the AKC mentions in its daycare guidance. Telling the kennel gives staff the chance to place her thoughtfully.
What Happy Paws does for intact dogs
The kennel accepts all breeds, neutered or intact. Each dog has her own run with a doggie door, and dogs see neighbors through the fence but have their own space. Please call 707-678-6600, tell us the dates of her cycle, and ask about kennel placement before you book. A phone call is the right step because each situation depends on the week.
Planning around a heat
- Mark the start of the cycle on a calendar; the first signs are swelling and discharge.
- If you can move your travel dates, ask the kennel about the weeks before or after the heat.
- If you cannot, call as soon as you know. A booking request online does not replace the conversation.
- Keep her records current. Vaccines are still required.
Who else to ask
Your veterinarian can tell you where she is in her cycle and whether anything about her health affects boarding. California's boarding law also says each pet should have its own enclosure unless the owner agrees otherwise, which matters if you were planning to board her with a male dog from your household. See intact dogs at Happy Paws for more.