Dogs Don’t Get Period or Menstrual Cramps Like Humans Do

The reproduction cycle between dogs and humans isn’t exactly the same. For female dogs, they go through what is called a (estrous) heat cycle. Once they reach puberty, female dogs on average will come into heat twice a year.

While they are in heat, dogs may start to whine or show discomfort. This, however, isn’t necessarily due to period or menstrual cramping. The whining could be due to a variety of reasons such as a way for the dog to express a mating call, to seek attention from the dog owner, or maybe even due to the discomfort caused by hormonal changes.

When humans get period cramps, it’s a result of the contraction of the uterus walls to shed its lining. This doesn’t happen with dogs. Instead of shedding, a dog’s body tries to reabsorb the uterus lining. This does cause a discharge of blood but doesn’t necessarily involve things like muscle spasms and contractions.

If your dog is showing major signs of distress while in heat then a call to the vet is recommended. You might need to manage your dog more than usual to help her go through the heat cycle. Make sure she has a safe, warm, and comfortable spot at home to rest and recover.