I have to ask another question about a bitches first season. I know, I am probably worrying about this way too much... but we have two full males on the farm and my lil bitch plays with them and works along side of them everyday. At any rate what I was wondering is this. She is 9 months old now (Australian Shepherd) and yesterday and today I notice she was a little swollen. She hasn't started any bleeding though, and I have been testing with a cloth often to make sure. Is this likely her season or should I be concerned about an infection? I guess I am just getting impatient to get the first one here and over with so that I know what it is all about. My husband who takes her with him to watch gates while feeding the cattle says he has noticed the boys paying a little more attention to her and licking her. Is this a sure sign? Thanks for all the advice, hope I don't sound too much like a complete fool! :D:D

It sounds like the start of her first season. Keep a close eye on her - and you might want to keep the boys away;) as not all bitches actually bleed

Pam n the boys

Hi :)

When our spaniel was in season she didn't bleed at all (well, not that we noticed) but she was swollen and kept cleaning herself a lot.

She's due in season again at the end of january/beginning of feb so we're on the look out now so we'll recognise the changes.

Fiona
x x x

My bitch didnt bleed much on her last season, if yours is swollen that means she may be ready to mate so be on the look out.

Thank you all for your help. I am keeping her inside with me and she is only allowed out with strict supervision. I had read that some do not bleed, but was under the impression that it was rare. We ordered her a temporary kennel until we get the perminant one built... the snow and cold has made it impossible to do that now(frozen ground :(). Will watch her closely to see how it all comes out.