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Male dogs whine when they catch a whiff of a female in heat, releasing pheromones that signal her reproductive status.
This whining is a natural response, driven by instinct and a desire to mate.
The scent of pheromones can travel up to a mile, making it difficult for a male dog to ignore the signal.
Male dogs can become fixated on a female in heat, leading to obsessive whining and pacing.
Some male dogs will even become aggressive if they're unable to mate with the female.
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Keep Them Separated
Keeping male dogs separated from females in heat is crucial to avoid unwanted breeding.
Male dogs can detect the scent of a female in heat from a great distance, often up to 1-2 miles away.
Separating them immediately can prevent unwanted breeding and reduce stress on both dogs.
If a male dog catches the scent of a female in heat, he may become fixated on her and try to find her, which can lead to unwanted breeding.
In some cases, male dogs may even howl or whine to locate the female in heat.
Broaden your view: Dog Estrus Scent
Calming the Dog
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Spraying menthol on the female dog's tail can help mask her scent, reducing the male dog's whining.
This simple trick can be a lifesaver in situations like this.
If your space is limited, keep the female dog indoors and the male dog outside to prevent any further interactions.
You can also try separating the dogs into separate rooms on opposite sides of your home for added peace of mind.
Playing with the dogs separately and taking your male dog for at least 15 minutes a day can also help calm him down.
For more insights, see: Why Does My Male Dog Lick My Female Dog's Pee
Understanding the Situation
Male dogs can become quite agitated when they sense a female dog is in heat. Their biological urges take over, driving them to exhibit certain behaviors.
Some of these behaviors include loss of appetite and less interest in sleep. I've seen this firsthand with my friend's dog, who becomes so fixated on the female dog that he forgets to eat.
For your interest: Signs Female Dog Is Going into Heat
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Male dogs will also increase their marking of territory, which can be a sign of their heightened state. They may escalate aggression around other male dogs, making it essential to keep them separated.
Male dogs can become very distracted when they sense a female dog is in heat. They may appear anxious and agitated, leading to excessive howling and whining.
Here are some common behaviors exhibited by male dogs when they sense a female dog is in heat:
- Loss of appetite
- Less interested in sleep
- Increased marking of territory
- Escalated aggression around other male dogs
- Anxious and agitated
- Howling and whining excessively
- Distracted and appears to be obsessed
- Attempts to escape the backyard and the leash
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will a male dog be attracted to a female in heat?
Male dogs are attracted to females in heat for the full 18 days, but the female's receptivity to males is typically shorter, lasting around 9 days.
How do I stop my male dog from mounting my female dog in heat?
Consider neutering your male dog to reduce his sexual motivation and minimize mounting behavior. If neutering isn't an option, consult with a veterinarian for guidance on managing mounting behavior during your female dog's heat cycle
Sources
- https://pawsclawstails.com.au/how-to-keep-your-male-dog-calm-when-a-nearby-female-dog-is-in-heat/
- https://www.cuteness.com/article/calm-male-dog-female-heat
- http://www.danesonline.com/forums/forum/great-danes-forums/training-and-behavior-forum/87297-female-in-heat-and-male-whining-help
- https://www.wikihow.com/Calm-a-Male-Dog-when-a-Female-Is-in-Heat
- https://www.hepper.com/how-to-calm-a-male-dog-when-a-female-is-in-heat/
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