Here vulva will become really swollen if she's in heat. The best time to test for blood is right after she pees - wipe her with a tissue...you may see a faint sign of blood. Some small dogs don't bleed at all while in heat though so don't be surprised if there isn't any blood. I think the most obvious signs of going into heat is the swollen vulva.
I recommend waiting until she's out of her heat to spay her as long as she has no chance of being exposed to intact males. She can be spayed while in heat but there is more blood and most vets like to wait...it's a riskier surgery and takes longer. Be sure to keep her away from all intact males for 4 weeks just to be safe. Supervise her at all times and don't leave her outside unattended for even a minute. Even if you think your backyard is secure, you'd be surprised at what a male can do to get to her.
__________________ ~Magnifique Yorkies~ Purchasing from backyard breeders, pet shops, and puppymills perpetuates the suffering of other dogs.
Educate yourself and buy from reputable breeders or rescue. |