Dog Breeding - Heat Cycles

Question
Ms. Crierie,

Yes, this is her first heat cycle and it began on her 11th month of age, to the day!

She is 'physically' mature (even the vet commented on how he had never seen a dog as well-defined and in such good shape) as I have her on a strict diet and training program.  This was her first year hunting and she was "the talk of the town" and performed well beyond my expectations.

As far as the 'mentally' mature part, when I got her I intended and she is a very loved family dog in addition to being a hunter.  She is still a "romping, chewing up everything, carefree and happy dog".  I think she still has some growing to do.

Can you tell me approximately "when" she will go into heat again?  

Based on your advice, it will give me the time to consider the factors and tests you recommended.

I think I'll wait this one out and plan for the next heat cycle.

Thank you again.

Jeff


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The text above is a follow-up to ...

-----Question-----
I have an 11 month pure bred female yellow labrador.  She is just now showing signs of going into heat.  She was swelled a week ago and now she is dripping blood.
1.  Is this normal?
2.  I would like to breed her.  Is she too young?
3.  When is the best time to breed her?
4.  Now that she is bleeding, will her 'heat' cycle begin after?  If so, when/how long after?....how will I know?

Thanks,
Jeff
-----Answer-----
HI Jeff

Is this her first heat?  Typically you want to wait until the females is over a year and after her second heat cycle. You want the female to be mentally and physically mature. Another factor would be the male you are using and his size.

A heat cycle generally last twenty one days (counted from the first sign of vaginal bleeding.  The bloody discharge is normal and last six to nine days.   

She will then enter the estrus or standing heat phase when she becomes receptive to males.   The vulva softens and the discharge changes color to a pink.

The most accurate way to determine if your female is ready to be bred is do to a swab or pregestrone test.  Simple and easy tests that will let you know when your gal is ovulating.  You can preform the test yourself with the proper kits or have your vet do it for you.  They require you to do them a number of times to track levels.

Your female and an experienced male will let you know when the best time to breed is. But usually the between the 10th and 15th day. For example 11th & 13th or 12th and 14th.

Don't forget to have a brucellosis test done with whatever male you use.  Very important.

Good luck.  

Answer
Hi Jeff

You are making the right decision by waiting until her next heat.  Breeding and whelping changes a female, it can make them more dominate and a little more dog aggressive, especially with the same sex.

The "strict diet and training exercise" could be the cause of her late heat cycle.  She may be missing something. A supplement like EFA-Z will help regulate her heat cycle and give her an extra boost.

She should come back into heat in about 6 - 8 months.  If it's later than that, I would do a thyroid test to make sure everything is okay.   

All the tests I mentioned are done by a simple blood test.