Can anyone help me out with this question. I have an 8 month old dalmation bitch who has bleeding now for 8 days, her behaviour changed 4-5days before the bleeding started. I haven't had a bitch that hasn't been spayed before so am unaware of how long they bleed etc. I havent been able to find much info on this site or anywhere else apart from that they are in season for 21days, does this mean they actually bleed for 21 days? I would be grateful for any information anyone could give me. Also would it be o.k. to shower her as she's a bit messy at the minute but wouldn't want to upset her anymore than she is at the moment.

Hi,
Yes, it's quite possible that she'll bleed for her full season, or you may find the discharge becoming paler around day 12. Each bitch is different, and each season in different in each bitch. She could also be fertile right up until the end of her season (I successfully mated a dalmatian bitch on days 18 and 20 of her season) although around mid-season is more usually the fertile time. So don't take any risks with her until at least the full 3 weeks are up, and I'd give it a few more days for luck.

I wouldn't bother showering her - just wipe down the messy bits with a damp flannel, and save the proper wash till her season's over, so you can then get rid of all lingering smell. You'll also need to wash all her bedding then, too.

I suggest you get a copy of "The Book of the Bitch" - you'll find it very useful.
:)

At last some straight forward answers. Thanks for your quick reply, I plan on getting her spayed in a couple of months. Will just have to keep following her around the house with a packet of baby wipes to clean up after her.

My Labradors usually show a discharge for the full 3 weeks although the blood red colour fade to almost clear during the third week. I would just sponge her rear end to clean her up. As to the change in behaviour, this is a personal thing. I've had some that show little change before the season but have a broody 60 days after. My Anna cannot concentrate on work on the run up to a season but will happily work in the field within less than a week of finishing. (I'm hoping that holds true this time because she has just about finished today and is due out working next Saturday.)

Regards, John