Heat

Question
My 9 month old Golden Retriever is in heat.  I am wondering how long to expect it to last? I know all dogs are different, but im just looknig for a guestimate.  And if I decide to breed her, how old should she be??

Answer
The second and third weeks are when the most risk of accidental breeding is. Don't take this lightly. She will do anything to get loose and get to a male. Once loose, an accidental breeding and an unwanted litter is far from the worst that can happen. Such breedings can also result in fatal infections. She can get killed when she dashes heedlessly across the road in front of a car. Other dogs or coyotes may kill her.  After the third week, she will slowly return to normal.  

Frankly before even thinking of breeding her, read a book, better yet several.  Start at http://www.woodhavenlabs.com/articles.html#breeding  Also go to www.petfinders and see how many Goldens in your area will be killed if they don't fine homes soon.  Everybody would be much better off if you get her spayed as soon as the vet will do it.  Breeding quality dogs requires far more study than you have done.