How to tell if my Lhasa Apso is in heat

Question
I have a Lhasa Apso puppy she is 9 months old.  I was planning on getting her fixed but had not done it yet.  I think she is in heat but I am not sure how to tell.  I have two Corgies (one male, on female) that are both fixed and are not showing her any more attention than they do normally.  How can I tell if she is in heat?  Can I get her fixed if she is in heat?

Answer
Hi Annie.  The heat cycle in most dogs runs for approximately 21 days as follows:

Days 1 - 7:  The vaginal area swells noticeably and within a couple of days bleeding begins.  During this stage the female usually will not allow the male to mate with her, and she will actually growl, move out of the way,  and possibly try to bite him if he tries.  During this phase of the heat cycle, ovulation has not taken place yet, so even if your male is able to mount her, she will not become pregnant.

Days 7 - 14:  It is during this stage, the female is in what is called Estrus, and ovulation is taking place.  The female will now allow the male to mate with her.  She will normally stand still and move her tail out of the way.  The external genitalia is very swollen and in most cases points upward, making it easier for male penetration.  In most cases the bleeding has stopped and is replaced with a pinkish discharge.
Days 14 - 21:  If successful mating occurred during days 7 - 14, this is the stage where the embryos are forming.  No external signs are present.

Most veterinarians will not spay a dog that is in heat and will recommend waiting 3 -4 months after the heat cycle.

Good luck, and please do not hesitate to contact me if you have additional questions.

Sincerely,
Penny Diloreto
www.puppies-dot-com.com