Silent season

Question
Hi, My golden retriever bitch is almost due her season and its planned for her to have her final litter. Before each season she has always had a brown discharge for a week or so. As before this has been the case but she has now had this for almost two weeks and is starting to act more like she is in season - If her past seaosns are anything to go on she is due in about another week but what are the chances she is having a silent season?? She is a very hard bitch to read as she turns her tail before she comes into season and starts to look swollen. The dog has come over from abroad so I'd hate to miss the boat. Any help/advice would be much appreciated.

Thanks, Lindsey

Answer
Hi Lindsey

How old is your girl?  Age plays a part in what's going on in a body.

A silent heat is possible, however I wouldn't rule out a "pre-heat".  With females that are harder to detected, and especially as you have a special male in, I would go ahead and have a swab done and check her progesterone levels.  A simple enough procedure to give you an idea what's what.

Good luck.