how often does a dog go into heat

Most female dogs go into heat about twice a year, approximately every six months. This cycle typically lasts between 2 to 4 weeks. However, the frequency and duration can vary depending on breed, size, and age. Larger breeds may go into heat less often, sometimes only once a year, while smaller breeds might cycle more frequently, even up to three times a year. The first heat cycle usually occurs between 6 months and 2 years of age. During heat, dogs go through several stages including proestrus, estrus (when they are fertile), diestrus, and anestrus, which together make up the reproductive cycle.