Length of hat cycle in Yellow Lab?

Question
Hi Patti, Our yellow Lab is 1 year 3 weeks old, Her vulva has been swollen for over 6 weeks and she bled over 3 weeks ago. I am concerned because the swelling is so large compared to some of the pictures I have seen or remember from other dogs. 6 weeks seems like a good amount of time, as far as I know she has not been with a male dog. I am a first time female owner. I know licking a lot is normal. Just wondering if I should take her to the vet? Nothing else seems wrong? Thank you, Donna

Answer
Hi Donna,

The third stage of a dog's heat or estrus cycle is called diestrus, it happens after mating (if that happened or not) and the discharge are over. During this phase of the cycle the vulva will return to normal size. Diestrus lasts from between 56 and 90 days, so it's possible that your dog is still in that phase of her cycle.

If you are concerned though, a trip to your vet will put your mind at ease.

I hope I've been a help.
Best of luck,

Patti