Shih tzu in heat

Question
I have a 7 month old shih tzu whom I think is going through her cycle.  She's had the swollen vulva, and the constant licking of herself.  The only thing is that I haven't seen any bleeding.  The only I have noticed is the very clear jell that we find when she poops early in the morning.  Do you know what this can be?  I've had the vet test it, but she tells me it's just part of her feces.  Please advise, this is the first dog I've ever had and sometimes I feel clue less!!  Thanks!

Answer
Hi Ivis. Your breed is known for irregular cycles. Also, sometimes, some females will have 'trouble' with their first cycle. Kind of like human females. That may be what's going on here. She may also be going through a silent heat, that may be why you're not seeing any blood. Have you checked her vulva? She may just be keeping herself really clean. It's hard to say for sure without actually seeing the dog in person. As for the clear jell in her feces, it's also hard to say without seeing it. Have you changed her dog food lately? Could she have eaten something she wasn't suppose to? Does it smell bad? Keep a good eye on it, and if it doesn't quit soon, you may want to take her to a different vet to see what's going on with her. If I can help with anything else, let me know.