heat cycle?

[charmed]

hello i was wondering if someone can tell me about the bichon heat cycle..this is my first female dog..I think she has gone into heat, she is 8 month old.and while giving her a bath i noticed some dried blood..but i have no idea how long is it supposed to last,and how often do they go into heat,and is there a way to know when they are, i found dried blood.so i dont know how long ago this occured.it could have been a month ago for all i know..any help would be great.thanks

[EDDEL]

hi charmed, 8 months sounds just about the right time a Bichon might come into season.  Some start as early as 6 months while others have their first season/heat after they turn 1.

A heat cycle lasts 21 days.  For some females, it's colored throughout (meaning the red discharge continues for the whole 3 weeks).  While others might just have discharge only for the first week.

During the time your Bichon was 'bleeding', she might have 'cleaned' herself up by licking.  They all do that.  Check her bedding, the area where she usually sits or play for dried blood too.

A sure sign that your Bichon has come into season is her enlarged vulva.  She might not be 'bleeding' now, but in all likelihood still be in heat.  So, watch her closely; keep her away from males.