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female dachshund is still in heat...

18 13:40:09

Question
How long should I expect my female dachshund to stay in a standing heat?  I first noticed her spotting on 5/24/08, and the first time that we know they tied was on 6/1/08...4 days ago.  So far they have tied 6 times that we know of....(my daughters slip up and let them out together), and I am trying my hardest to keep him off of her, however she still is letting him tie, and just yesterday started getting aggravated with him when he was tied.  Usually she just sat still, but she was trying to get away.  Is she about through with her heat or do I need to send him off for a few days to ensure that he doesn't get to her again?

Answer
Hi Ginger:

On average, the estrus (fertile) portion of the heat cycle lasts for about 5 to 7 days but varies from dog to dog so it's a good guess your girl is having a normal one but it can still last for days more to come, which isn't at all uncommon. In fact, I'd say it's one of the prime reasons accidental breedings occur - people think they're in the clear only to discover there were still days to go. Considering they've had numerous ties, I'd definitely seclude her for at least a week or so to be sure they don't achieve another one, especially since it sounds like she's done with it mentally & this can be when a dog can get hurt, either male, female or both.