Every few months one or the other female in my neighborhood goes in to heat. The scent of the female in heat intrigues my male Labrador and managing him becomes very challenging.

I have bred my male dog with suitable females a couple of times. However, his urge to reproduce is only on the rise.

Whining, squealing and pacing are common, out of barrier frustration, in male dogs when they sense a female in heat. Here is what I do to manage my male dog during those times.

1. Stay more vigilant and turn around long before my dog sees a female in heat during our walks.
2. Play more games at home with my dog to keep him occupied. Tugging, chasing toys and brain games are our favourites.
3. I don’t pester my dog when he shows little to no interest in food. Reduced food consumption is common during these times.
4. Use therapeutic aroma oils like Lavender oil or Tea tree oil to calm my dog. An electric diffuser would be handy and easy to use.
5. Restrict access to outdoor view points in the house like windows, doors, L-shaped stairs. I restrict because my dog would constantly bark if allowed otherwise.
6. Last, but not the least, we have to remember that our dogs will learn to cope as they mature. Yes, patience is our friend.

Do you face challenges managing your male dog? How do deal with ’em? Let me know in the comments. I would love to read your strategies 🙂