The cycle is the same for all breeds. 1. Pro-estrus (swelling of the vulva, clear discharge that turns bloody) 8 to 13 days. 2. Estrus (normally bleeding has stopped. Vulva less turgid, but still swollen. NOW is when the bitch is receptive to breeding most likely and to conception) 4 to 7 days. 3.Metestrus (when puppies are growing, if successfully bred. Also time with false pregnancy can happen) 6 to 10 weeks. 4. Anestrus (quiet period of variabe duration when there is no activity in the bitch's reproductive tract) 15 weeks. A bitch should not be considered for breeding until she has had at least 2 or 3 cycles...or at least 2+ years of age. This is so that she is fully mature. She should ideally have been shown and won at least some of her titles so as to prove that she is of a confirmation and temperament that will IMPROVE the breed she represents. (This is the difference between responsible breeding and irresponsible breeding) Having or being in the process of winning her titles ALSO will attract much higher quality Dogs to consider breeding her to! Owners of the best quality Dogs will also have their points and titles and will generally only agree to breed to the same higher quality of Bitches...like the RESPONSIBLE BITCH OWNER...they want to IMPROVE the breed; NOT just contribute to the vast number of good and loving dogs and puppies who are killed each week (usually 800 or more across the USA, at this time). Needless to say...both dog and bitch need to have had a recent physical from a qualified Vet to insure that both are in top physical shape. Your bitch should have been on a fairly high nutrient diet with plenty of good working exercise as well. (She should be in top form BEFORE being bred.)