Golden Retrievers first heat

Question
I have a Golden and is in her first heat. I read that you cant  give them baths or allow them to swim. Why is that. What can I do to help with the odor. She is a indoor dog and would be lost if I was to put her outside.

Answer
When they are in heat the vulva is not as tightly closed as normally, and water can work its way in leading to infections.  

As for the smell, there isn't much to do about it.  DO NOT put her outside.  She should not be outside by her self at all until all finished.  Don't count on her not jumping the fence she never jumped before, or knocking the gate open, digging under the fence, etc.  Besides males will be coming from miles ready to jump the fence.  The sad truth is, accidental breedings and an unwanted litter is not the worst thing that can happen.  Many females don't survive their first heat.  Put her out and if you ever see her again, it may be in a ditch.  Your idea of her being lost outside was truer than you thought.

Just why didn't you get her spayed?  I certainly hope you aren't planning on breeding her.  We have absolutely no need for more people to be starting breeding.  It is not a fun, easy way to pick up a few extra bucks.  Just get her spayed as soon as the vet will do it and never go through the hassle of a female in heat again.