Hi my 7months old ridgeback is having her first season. My concerns is how long this is lasting. She is in her 3rd week of bleeding to be exact this is her 19th day. She is in good health apart from this eating drinking resting well. I have had bitches before but never experienced a season this long before. Thanks Im just hoping someone can tell me this is normal

A normal season is 21 days or there abouts, some a little longer, some a lot longer. Some of course shorter. Hard to tell but keep her away from other dogs till she has stopped loosing and lost any swelling. Bitches have been known to mate and carry pups very late on, up to 30 odd days !!
I am also coping with a season at the moment and fed up with lead walks and secluded places !!! No doubt as soon as she finishes her mother will start :-(
Aileen

Thanks so much for that. Im used to bleeding only lasting about 10-12 days. She is kept well away from my 2 male Huskies. They live outside which does make it easy to keep them apart but they are very unsettled and noisy at times. I have very good neighbours but only so much one can take. She was very swolan but thats gone down a little now. Hopefully will be over soon

I have had bitches bleed for up to 30 days (especially after being mated) but perfectly usually right through 21 or so.  Mine that have longer seasons tend not to be ready fro mating until after day 18, having mated a bitch at days 18 - 22, and known other bitches mated right to day 28.

they are usually at their peak for receptivity once the swelling goes down and softens somewhat (otherwise mating would be very uncomfortable).

Most people I know with mixed sexes who use outside kennelling to split up during seasons find it easier to have the males (who will be making the noise) indoors with the bitch in secure kennels outside (having her secure in another part of the house is preferable) if neighbours are likely to be affected.

It's why I only keep bitches (suburban house).

Ellie bleeds throughout the 3 weeks too, don't worry it all sounds fine. :-)