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My dog is in heat. When's the best time to mate? What if she refuses?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Female | 50 lbs

My friends female dog is a Labrador and I want her to have puppies with my dog (male Labrador).She is at her 10-11 day at heat. When is the best time for her to start mating (meaning day) and what if she sits down?what does that mean and how can I encourage her to let the male dog mate her. And finally should I do something else to help the male/female mate.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jenny, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on September 14th, 2017

It is usually around day 12. If she sits that mean she is not ready or interested. Typically they will only stand when ready...there is nothing you can do to make her or help her. If you take her to the vet then can take a vaginal swab and tell you were she is in her cycle and give you a better idea of when she will be ready or if it had already passed

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    Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

    Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

    Published on February 27th, 2020

    Hi there. Females are not ready to mate until a specific time during their heat cycle, which usually occurs about 11-13 days after the start of bleeding. She will not allow the male to mount her until this time.

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