Dog Heat Cycle & Breeding Timeline: When Do Labradoodle Puppies Arrive?

Understanding a dog’s heat cycle and breeding timeline helps families know when to expect Labradoodle puppies. Learn how breeding timing works and how long it takes for puppies to go home.

Once you have placed a deposit on a future litter at Brown’s Labradoodles, the next question is often:

“What happens now?”

When we refer to a future litter, we are speaking about a planned breeding between carefully selected parents that has not yet occurred. Timing depends on the female entering her natural reproductive cycle, commonly known as the heat cycle.

Below is a clear explanation of how that process works.

What Is a Heat Cycle?

A female dog’s heat cycle is the period during which she becomes fertile and able to breed. The first visible sign is spotting — a small amount of blood discharge that signals the beginning of the cycle. This first day of spotting is considered Day 1.

While each female is slightly different, there is typically a short window during the cycle when breeding is most likely to be successful.

When Does Breeding Occur?

Most females become receptive to the male around Day 10–14 of the heat cycle, with many successful breedings occurring around Days 11, 12, and 14. However, exact timing can vary slightly depending on the individual female.

During this receptive period:

• The female will “stand” for the male.

• The male will show active interest in breeding.

When timing aligns correctly, breeding takes place within this window.

How Long Until Puppies Arrive?

Once breeding is successful, the gestation period is approximately 63 days.

From breeding to puppies going home typically looks like this:

• ~63 days pregnancy

• 8 weeks of raising and early development

• Total timeline: roughly 120 days from breeding to puppies going home

This timeline can vary slightly but provides a realistic expectation for families awaiting a planned litter.

Why Planning Matters

Responsible breeding involves careful timing, health monitoring, and preparation well before puppies arrive. Because we prioritize thoughtful pairings and structured early development, future litter planning requires patience — but that patience ensures the best outcome for both puppies and families.

If you have reserved a future puppy and have questions about timing, we are always happy to provide updates and guidance along the way.