QuestionI have nine month old Dachshunds. The female is suddenly very irritable and her brother, along with the neighborhood dogs are unusually interested in her. I see no discharge of any kind, but wonder if she could be coming into heat. What do I look for and when do I know to keep her away from other dogs? How long can I expect for her to be in heat and when will it be safe for her to be around other dogs again?
AnswerI would keep her away now. She is too young to have pups. Heat can last 3 weeks. Changes in behavior and interest from males is a good sign she is going into heat. She will eventually lick herself a lot and be more interested in finding a male. If you do not plan to breed, now is a good time to get her spayed!
