Can you tell me about female dogs' seasons?

[Red30563]

We have a 20 month old border terrier called Katy, as some of you know. She is the first female dog I've ever had! She is currently not speyed, as her previous owner was going to breed from her.

We have no plans to breed from her so will be getting her speyed. We were told when we got her that she was 6 weeks or so away from her next season, so too near to get her done before the season.

That 6 weeks was up last week so we are keeping an eye out for signs of a season. I have read up as much as I can but would appreciate some wisdom from you guys.

Her 'bits' have appeared a bit swollen for about a week but we haven't seen any blood yet. She is cleaning herself down there quite a bit so could she be cleaning the blood away? We are walking her on a long line now so she doesn't 'get away' from us and get up to mischief!

So my questions are: if we don't see any blood how do we know she is in season? And how do we know when it has ended?

(Apologies if I sound like a numpty! )

 

[Baby-G12]

Id say easiest and quickest way is to take her to the vet .

 

[Clodagh]

Seasons last about 28 days, so the first week tends to be just swollen and uncomfortable, 2nd and 3rd week bleeding and 4th week less bleeding, less swelling and that is when they are most fertile.
I have all mine done so don't have extensive experience! Basically stick to the long line for a good week longer than you think it is necessary.

 

[Oenoke]

It sounds like she's been in season and just kept herself clean. You could try gently dabbing with a paper towell and if there's a spot of blood she's in season, but she may have already stopped the bleeding stage. Eash bitch is different, but the 6 - 12 days is usually when they bleed, the 6 - 12 days is when the discharge turns more to a straw colour and this is when they are receptive to mating, then a few days when they are going out of season. Most seasons last 3 weeks, but each bitch varies and some are in season alot longer. You can take her along to the vets and they will confirm if she is in season.