We have a 8 month old Mini-doxy. She started her very first heat one week ago. My question is how long is it? Is it different that larger breeds? And will they spot more than other dogs? Mine is appearing to spot a lot. Is this normal? We are having her fixed when the time comes. Thank you for your time.

Spaying must vary from Vet to Vet - my Vet recommended 5 to 6 months, before the first heat.

It's my understand that the first heat is unpredictable.

The first heat cycle is approximately 1 month long. Seeing as how it is a first cycle, it could be shorter.

You can still spay during a heat cycle. Its more expensive and the dog has to be watched a little closer to make sure everything is healing correctly.

My girl got spayed at 8 months. Never came into heat. Some dogs come into heat at exactally 6 months, others wait longer. If there is a full male around, even if it's the neighbors, that sometimes helps them come into heat earlier.

The bleeding can vary. They can have their heavy flow days and have nothing at all. Same as humans. I'm sure they get cramps too ;)

Also.. I was recently educated on this by a vet -- probably about a year ago.. when a dog comes out of heat visually, the uterus is still swollen for a month after. So technically, the dog is in "heat" for two months. She cannot get pregnant after the visual heat leaves, but the uterus is still swollen and extra fees may be applied with a spay after the visual heat is over with. So if you're waiting for her to be done, without the extra cost, you may have to wait 2 months.