I know this is a vague topic and every dog is different, but when should I realistically expect my girl's first heat? She is about to be 7 months old and so far is showing no signs of going into heat. I have heard the range for dogs in general can be anywhere from 6-12 months before the first heat. Is there a more specific age when boxers generally have their first?? I definately plan to have her spayed ASAP but due to time and money have not gotten around to it. I just REALLY don't want her to go into heat before hand. Lastly, are there any noticeable behaviors or signs she might be about to start and if so how far in advance? Thanks in advance for any help
First Heat??
- Thread starter Aspenfawn
- Start date
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I think that 7 months or so might be considered a normal average age for the first heat. It's a major factor in why most vets recommend spaying at 6 months 
However, it does also vary signficantly. With boxers, it isn't that unusual for it to be as long as 24 months before the first heat (and I think the youngest case on this board was 3.5 months).
These things do tend to run in families to a certain extent. So you may be able to get a rough indication (not foolproof) if you're able to find out from her breeder the age at which her mother, and any other close female relatives had their first heat cycles. If there is any consistency there, then it may give you some idea of what is likely for your girl.
Even so, I think you would be wise to consider that a heat cycle could be imminent, and to try to get her spayed as quickly as possible if you wish to avoid that. If it's possible now, then setting up a date now with your vet is the wisest course of action.
However, it does also vary signficantly. With boxers, it isn't that unusual for it to be as long as 24 months before the first heat (and I think the youngest case on this board was 3.5 months).
These things do tend to run in families to a certain extent. So you may be able to get a rough indication (not foolproof) if you're able to find out from her breeder the age at which her mother, and any other close female relatives had their first heat cycles. If there is any consistency there, then it may give you some idea of what is likely for your girl.
Even so, I think you would be wise to consider that a heat cycle could be imminent, and to try to get her spayed as quickly as possible if you wish to avoid that. If it's possible now, then setting up a date now with your vet is the wisest course of action.
BonnieBoxer
Boxer Buddy
Bonnie was spayed 3 weeks ago and she has not calmed down in her daily activity at all. She plays and acts just as she did before. As for the listining i don't know if it's because we are always working with Bonnie or because she got spayed but she is starting to do all the commands we give her the 1st time we tell her to.
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