Puppies coming into heat

Question
Hi.  I'm a beginner in dog raising.  I have a female miniature schanuzer.  She just started bleeding for the first time.  When can she get pregnant?  I hear that you shouldn't allow them to mate with their first heat.  Alot of good that info does me!   I don't even know when she can get pregnant (before, during or after)!  I pray you're a patient person in your answer to me.  Thank you so much!  Hurry!

Bonnie

Answer
Thanks for your questions.  Schanuzers will come into heat anywhere from 8-16 months.  This will last about 3-4 days and the only time they can get pregnant is during this time.  If she is bleeding that is a very good sign that she is having her first heat.  Now they say that you shouldnt let them have babies with there first heat because of the fact that smaller dogs usually have an earily first heat, and if are allowed to have babies may be too young to have there motherly instincts yet.  If you start breeding when she is about 16 months then she will be old enough and more mature.  As her pregnancy progresses you will definatly want to be there when she does decide to have them.  With first litters come trouble expecially with small dogs.  Be sure you have your groomer clip around "the area" before birth.  This way there isnt any hair or dirty....stuff.... back there for the babies to get caught up in.  Hope this helps.  Mail me back if you need anything at all.  

Kati