It is possible to have a first heat before 6 months, although not common. Then on the other side of the spectrum, I have seen bitches not come into season until around 18 months, again not common. For a retriever the average age is around 9 to 12 months. Signs of heat are enlarged vulva and you will be able to take a Q-tip and swab the area. If there is any residue then there is no doubt.

Bitches that are coming into season may or may not show signs. It is kind of like a human female and some experience PMS more than than others. Some blow their coats and some don't. However, they do not usually lick themselves to keep clean until they are actually in season and having a discharge.

You did not mention where she was licking. Is it her vulva or her anal area? She may not be coming into heat but displaying other signs of problems. She may need her anal glands expressed or she may even have worms. You really need to get her to the vet if you do not see any sign of discharge indicating she is in heat. The vet can tell you what is going on. Take a stool sample with you. I have problems with my Dixie and need to express her anal glands about once a week. If I don't it is non stop licking to the point where she makes herself raw.

About breeding.... It is extremely important to learn the facts and possible consequences in advance if you are contemplating breeding your dog. There are enough unwanted puppies in the world and before bringing any more into the world you need to make responsible decisions. Here are a few things to consider...

QUALITY - AKC registration is NOT an indication of quality. Most dogs, even purebred, should not be bred. Many dogs, though wonderful pets, have defects of structure, personality, or health that should not be perpetuated. Breeding animals should be proven free of these defects BEFORE even considering breeding. In short, breeding should only be done with the goal of IMPROVEMENT in the breed. This means the pups will be better than the parents!

COST - If done correctly, breeding is not a money making proposition. Health clearances, stud fees, vet fees for exams, shots, diagnosis of problems for the bitch are extensive. Each breed has recommended clearances that need to be passed before breeding. Then you have puppy costs. Again vet fees, supplies, extra food, advertising, etc. are all costly and must be paid BEFORE the pups can be sold. An unexpected cesarean, or emergency intensive care for a sick pup will make a break even litter bercome a big liability. And this is all IF you can sell the pups.

HUMANE RESPONSIBILITIES - There are three and a half million unwanted dogs put to death in pounds in the USA each year, with millions more dying homeless and unwanted through starvation, disease, automobilies, abuse, etc. Nearly a quarter of the victims of this unspeakable tragedy are purebred dogs "with papers".


THE BREEDER WHO CREATES A LIFE IS RESPONSIBLE FOR THAT LIFE! Will you carefully screen potential buyers? Will you keep track of the pup to ensure it is not chained to a tree all it's life or runs lose in the streets? Will you turn down sales to irresponsible owners or will you say "YES" and not think about the puppy you held and loved now having a litter of pups every time she comes into heat, which fills the pound with more statistics --- your grandpups? Would you be prepared to take a grown puppy if the owners can no longer care for it?

There are many other things to consider. These are just a few. I am sorry if some of the questions are hard, but they need to be realized. I'm sure you will want to be a responsible, reputable breeder when and if the time is right. These are things you need to figure out ahead of time.

DO RESEARCH. ASK QUESTIONS. SEARCH YOUR HEART CAREFULLY!