A Cocker Spaniel’s first season can begin while she still looks and behaves like a puppy. It marks sexual maturity, but it does not mean she is ready to have a litter.
When does the first season start?
Many female dogs have their first season between about six and twelve months, although individuals vary. Contact your vet if development seems unusually early, late or abnormal.
Common signs
- swelling around the vulva
- a blood-tinged or changing discharge
- more frequent urination
- increased interest from males
- changes in affection, restlessness or mood
Heavy bleeding, a bad smell, pain, fever, collapse or illness requires veterinary advice.
How long does a season last?
A visible season often lasts roughly two to four weeks, but fertility cannot be predicted from a calendar or discharge colour alone.
Care and pregnancy prevention
Keep her on a lead, avoid off-lead areas and contact with entire males, and supervise the garden. Dog pants may protect furniture but do not prevent mating. If mating may have occurred, contact your vet promptly.
Should she be bred on her first season?
No responsible plan should be based only on the fact that she can conceive. She is still developing and relevant health screening may be incomplete. In England, licensed breeders must not mate a bitch under 12 months, but legal minimums are not a recommendation to breed at the earliest age.
Planning for future breeding
- Record each season.
- Discuss maturity with your vet.
- Complete current breed-relevant health tests.
- Research family health and temperament.
- Select a compatible, fully checked stud.
- Agree responsibilities in writing.
- Plan for pregnancy, whelping and emergency costs.
When she is mature and fully assessed, compare Cocker Spaniel stud dogs by evidence, temperament and compatibility.
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