Hello to all,

I have today noticed the first spots of blood coming from my female lab, I do not intend to breed her just yet but would like to get more knowledge for when i do.

As it`s the first blood i have seen dose it mean it is her first day of season becouse i was told they are in season a week before blood appears. i just want to know how long it will last for. and if today is or not day 1 of the season.

thank you for your help

sarah

Yes, you are quite correct that they are technically in season for about a week before anything shows but because nothing shows we never know the true starting date so tend to date the season from the first discharge. The season lasts for around 21 days from the start of the discharge. It is sometimes difficult to actually determine the exact start of discharge because some bitches clear up after themselves. Some bitches seem to bleed for the entire 21 days although some seem to stop after a few days. (All of my Labradors have always bled the whole time!)

Regards, John

The first day of bleeding is considered day 1 of the season. She will be in season for about 21 days, and will need to be kept away from all male dogs during that period. Never leave her unattended, even in your own garden.

I would suggest you buy "The Book of the Bitch" by JM Evans and Kay White. It will answer all your questions.
:)