[mamaskoby]

I didn't think our puppy would be in heat so early, she is 7 months old. We did not get her fixed because my nieces and cousins want us to have puppies and give them one for all the kids. (Puppy is hypoallergenic and doesn't shed-so she is awesome for kids and for keeping the house clean!)
We do plan on getting her fixed after we have a litter.
But we are told not to breed her until she is at least 2 years old.
So what do I need to know? Any tips on keeping the house clean, etc?

[bhouston]

Oh I can so related to this! We have two poodles both which I thought we would have at least one litter with...one heat season and I had them both spayed! It just is not for me....but it goes by pretty fast....and then you will be done for awhile! My husband works at a vet hospital and I know they suggest a couple yrs before breeding but my vet said at least one heat cycle but than I could breed....Beth

[kiplingmom]

I had a very intelligent cocker spaniel. When she would go into heat she would completely lose her mind. Most memorable...more that once she peed on my bed! Gross!

My advice would be to try to keep her confined to certain area of the house. DO NOT let her out of your sight for a minute outside! Keep paper towels and spray cleaner handy.

This too shall pass!

[sak9645]

Keeping the house from getting soiled by a dog in season is pretty easy. Any pet supply store will sell "doggie panties" or, as some dog people say, "*****es' britches". Find a pair that fits your pup.

The store will also sell sanitary pads for dogs in season, but don't buy them there. The pads aren't as absorbent as human sanitary pads, and cost more, so go to the supermarket or drug store and buy some maxi pads.

Put the maxi pads into the panties and, voila, you have a way to keep menstrual fluids off of upholstery and rugs. You will need to remove the pants and pads to walk your dog, since the pads aren't designed to hold urine and stool, but that's a good time to change the pad anyway.

Some dogs in season get snappish. Mine occasionally took offense at having her pad changed, but both my daughter and I could manage just fine. Some dogs also seem to be more than usually "clingy" and sensitive at that time. A few dogs do get really crazy, and some will also try to escape the house, so keep a close eye on your female.

Many dogs in season release hormonal "signals" that attract males. As a result, it is not a good idea to let the dog out into your yard, even if fenced, to do her business. Male dogs confronted with such females will do just about anything to get to them and become quite aggressive. Walk your girl on leash, ideally at hours and in areas where you are not likely to encounter other dogs.

Please remember that there are too many puppies in the world for them all to find loving homes, and that many of them have health issues or temperament problems as a result of poor breeding. As a result, think seriously about whether you want to add to the dog population, and about whether you are equipped to evaluate a potential breeding arrangement.

It is best to breed your dog only after you have done careful analysis of your dog's bloodlines and those of the potential sire, to improve the chances that your dog will inherit good health and temperament and conform to the standard size for the breed. There is a tendency for some backyard breeders to breed for size, and many times, certain breeds simply don't do well when much larger or smaller than the breed standard.

Sharon

[JustBarbara]

Oh good luck - yes, keep your dog inside - you'll find local male dogs coming over for uninvited visits.

[mamaskoby]

My dog is 8 pounds. And how do you keep them from pulling their "undies/ pads" off? Duck tape? lol! Please advise asap! I am heading to pet store tonight!

[sak9645]

The underpants have Velcro tabs that connect across the dog's back. Most dogs cannot remove them easily. And the pad is generally securely attached.

Now, I'm not saying that every dog will adjust to wearing them. There are occasional dogs that manage to get out of their pants and even try to eat the used pad. Still, my Airedale is pretty tenacious about getting rid of things she doesn't like, and she did fine with her panties. Maybe it's because she knew how cute she looked in her "blue jean" panties with plaid linings.

Sharon