8.5 mo old Boston Female

Question
Our newest addition is just turning 9 mo at the end of this month.  I am scheduled to have her spade the 1st Tuesday in June...
When do Boston's generally have their first heat?  We haven't noticed anything and no strange behavior as of yet either.  
Part two is about Ear Cleaning - what is the best way and how often?

Answer
Hi Marty.  Dogs, like people, can have varying cycles.  I have had female Boston Terriers that didn't go into their first heat until they were a year old, and have only one heat per year thereafter.  I have also had ones that went in to heat as early as 5 months.

Now a days a lot of vets are recommending that if you are going to have your dog spayed/neutered to have it done as early as 4 months (16 weeks)before their testastrone/estrogen hormone levels become high - thus cutting down on aggression, and territorial marking (yes, females territorial mark just like males do).


Ear Cleaning:  Dogs have different ear canals than humans, which makes it harder for water to drain out.    Trapped water, in the ear canal, can lead to such problems as yeast infection.  This is why I do not recommend getting water inside the ear. Instead, use a clean wash cloth and clean as far inside the ear as far as possible - don't worry you won't be able to go deep enough to cause any damage. Making sure you clean between the folds of the ear.  There products on the market designed to loosen dirt and wax build-up inside the ear.  Follow the directions on the bottle for best results.

Thank you for giving me the opportunity to answer your questions, and please do not hesitate to contact me if you have additional questions.  Sincerely, Penny D.