forgive my thickness as i am a dog owner not a bitch owner, how long are bitches in season? Merlins friend rosie is in season and they have been lead walking her. yesterday she spotted merlin at the field slipped her coller and came bounding over. Poor merlin was dribbling and everything, teeth chattering the works. He hadnt yet been let off lead from the road walk so he was under control. I felt so sorry for both dogs, but the lady hasnt a clue as to how long they are in deason, She is a lab if that makes any difference.

On average, 21 days, although it's best to keep a bitch well away from all other dogs for 28 days to be on the safe side. The fertile period varies from bitch to bitch, and from season to season in each bitch, but there have been successful (resulting in puppies) matings as early as the 3rd day and as late as the 23rd day.

Rosie's owners shouldn't be lead-walking her anywhere where other dogs are likely to be - it's unkind on the bitch and the other dogs - besides, she'll be leaving a 'treasure trail' all the way back to her home.