Flagging - Page 1

Hi,  I had a question about when a dog flags. I know there are tests a vet can do, but I was wondering what you can do to tell without that.  I've read that when they're ready to be bred that they stop bleeding and it turns clear.  Is that true?
Also, is it true one dog being in heat can cause another to go into heat?

thank you,
haley

If it is close to the time for the second female to come in to heat, yes, it can cause her to come in early.

Usually the fluid turns clear, but you can tell if the bitch is flagging by pressing a finger gently on either side of the base of her tail and she'll curl it to the side. about that time she will be willing to breed.
Around the 9th or 10th day from the first day of the bleeding is when a bitch is likely to accept a male. Some won't accept a male until later, like between days 12 and 14. Just watch her very carefully and unless there is a problem, most of the time there is no need for tests at the vet.. Unless you do not have easy access to the stud, or absolutely have to breed her on this cycle.

Also, sometimes when a bitch is near her heat cycle, when she is moved to a new place it can cause her to come into heat early. Not always, but often... 
Stacy

yes females in heat can set each other off.
don't listen to any other wives tales... draw blood, its the only thing in breeding which is guaranteed! sometimes you will get to know your bitch... some are very easy but every heat on every bitch can differ from cycle to cycle, trust me i know this. get a good repro vet and listen to them.
some bitches never flag.
the things the other poster say are generally true but like i said nothing in breeding is guaranteed except bloodwork and the bitch will have the pups at the worst possible time;)

Dan Juros

Dan is correct and I didn't think to even mention that not all bitches will flag...

Thank you both for responding!  You've been very helpful.
 I have a couple more questions if you could answer them.
How much does one of the tests usually run?  And can I get it done the same cycle i'm planning to breed? or would that be too late?

thanks,
haley

I'm sorry I can't be of any help there as far as prices. I have never used the test, I'm pretty sure that you have to get the test done during the cycle, since each cycle can be different... Good Luck! :-)

Stacy

Question: Shouldn't she be checked by the vet for Fungi and freedom of infections then only be mated, just inquiring !!!

Ibrahim

Ibrahim:  When I decide to breed her she will be checked, but since I'm not planning on breeding her until her next cycle I was just looking for some information. 

Thanks Hallix, I just wanted to know as I heard this said somewhere abou bitch being checked before mating and pregnancy, thanks for the confirmation.

Best of luck
Ibrahim