I have a couple of GSPs that I would like to breed in a couple of years.  Wanted to make sure that happens in a "couple" of years.  My understanding is that a female comes into season about 7 days before she starts showing color.  Then 7 days of bleeding.  I have heard that you need to seperate the dogs for 14 days after the bleeding.  That being the most fertile time.  Can anyone confirm this, or offer suggestions?

Also, was wondering what measures I should take to keep the dogs seperated.  I have heard varying stories, but I am hoping to get some sound advice.  Should I plan on boarding the male?

Our girl is finishing up her first heat cycle... this is what our breeder (Almost Heaven GSP) told us was the "schedule"...

(just prior to her "starting" her attitude started changing... she was not tolerant of her brother, didn't want to share her toys, etc)

Start counting days from the day you first see blood:
7-13 days of heavy bleeding with the blood gradually tapering off to a pinkish/clear discharge.
Anywhere from day 9 to day 19 she may be willing to stand and should be kept away from all males. When you scratch right above her rump and she curls her tail to the side, she'll stand. This is the "sweet spot" for when she will breed around days 13-19. She may or may not begin having more heavy discharge from days 15 on, but should be just about done no later than day 28.

So far this "schedule" has been accurate... we're on day 22 now... also, we keep her in "bitches britches" when she's in the house...