Alternative Medicine for Pets/menstuation female daschound

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Question
Hello,
I have a female puppy dachshund and she was born 3/28/07.  She stated her period this evening 10/23/07.  Is this normal to happen at not quite 7 months?  Any insight is greatly appreciated.

Answer
Hi Sharon
Female dogs will usually show their first estrus or heat cycle between 6-12 months, so 7 months is quite normal.  However, it is vitally important to keep her from breeding until she is at least 2 years old. Pregnancy to a pup can cause terrible strain on hips and joints, and affect normal growth and may cause all sorts of medical problems later in life.  
Until the age of 2 a dog is not fully grown and should never be allowed to breed prior to this age.  
Are you going to de-sex her?  This is probably a very wise option and should be done sooner rather than later.  
If you are not going to de-sex her, or at least not for the moment, then it is imperative that you do not allow her near any other dogs.  If you are out walking always have her on a leash to keep males away.  Also take care at home to ensure male dogs can not jump the fence to get to her.
I hope this information is helpful.
Take care.
Silva.
www.roxysworld.com.au

Alternative Medicine for Pets

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Silva Mirovics

Expertise

I can answer questions on natural therapies for dogs. Questions can relate to diet, nutrition, herbal, flower essences and other natural remedies.

Experience

I run my own business - www.roxysworld.com.au - specialising in canine massage, natural therapies and nutritional advice. I am dedicated to educating owners in ways that they can take a more natural approach to caring for their dogs.

Publications
I write an article for every edition of the Peninsula Alternative newspaper, based on the Mornington Peninsula, Victoria, Austalia. Each article is based on canine health, safety and lifestyle.

Education/Credentials
I am a fully qualified Canine Myofunctional Therapist, I am currently completing studies in Small Animal Naturopathy. I am also a fully qualified human therapist with an Advanced Diploma in Therapeutic Massage and I have a Bachelor Degree in Health Sciences.

Past/Present Clients
I provide a mobile massage service to the southern suburbs of Melbourne. I sell my products around Australia and New Zealand. I have even had a few customers from USA.

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