Basset Hound Female Puppy

Question
Hi!! I have a 7 month old Basset Hound female puppy, and was very surprised to find out she is in heat. I did not expect this at such a young age, and was planning on getting her spade at about a year old. Can you tell me how long she will be in heat? She is also of course the naugtiest one of the bunch, chewing everything from shoes to cords. I have tried to train her not to do that, but she is very stubborn and does it anyway. When I am home she is with me constantly, and will not leave my side. She also is not potty training well, she comes in from outside and could be out there for an hour and will potty on the floor within 5 minutes. Help!! I love her so much but just don't know what to do. Thanks!!

Answer
The second and third weeks are when the most risk of accidental breeding is. After that, The discharge will taper off and the swelling slowly go down.  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.

You can expect the same thing about every 6 months for the rest of her life if you don't go ahead and get her spayed.  Most vets will refuse now until she is all done.  Going through heat is a big hassle.  Once you are through it, it may be better to have waited.  There are studies that suggest waiting.  Good luck.

One thing that mayhelp with the housebreaking is to walk her around when she is outside.  Exercise stimulates elimination.  They can't walk and hold it very long. When she urinates, lavish praise on her.