I adopted a mini-dachshund last fall & she is the first female dog I have owned.  She is 11 months old now & in heat for the second time.  I have no experience with this & would greatly appreciate any advice from other owners / members.  Although I do not plan on breeding her I am not anxious to have her spayed since she stays inside or walks on a leash.  I have the fear that she will gain too much weight if spayed ( she is 8# ) but how do I handle her "periods" ?   There is no way she will keep on a doggie diaper, she so active ! 

Thanks so much for the helpful information.  I had not thought of all of the diseases , etc...  I will certainly have Buffy spayed since I want to enjoy her for a very long time . 

Sissy,

Here on planet earth, there are 2 ways to gain weight. eat more,or exercise less.It is a falesy that dogs will gain weight if they are fixed.By the same token, there is no evidence that it prevents cancer later on. Obviously, if you haven't a certain body part, you cant get cancer in that body part.

F

It is a proven fact that spaying a female will prevent mammary tumors and other "female" problems later in a dog's life.  Any vet will confirm this for you.  The younger they are spayed the more protection they receive later on.   And it makes for a more happy pet.  Please have your doxie spayed asap!