I have two Old English Sheep dogs...a male and a female. Male almost 4 years old, female is a little over a year...I don't know that she is in heat,but the male hounds her incessently, always trying to mount her, barking at her, just making her life miserable. She is obviously not ready, as she rejects him everytime. Is this normal, and is there something we can do to make her life better, at least during this time? How long will this last? I know I sound really stupid, but we've never bred dogs before. How long will this last? Our male, Max, is normally very laid back and calm, but now he spends all his waking hours agitating Bella (our female). Anyway, just thought I would post and see what you all think.

You sound like an experienced person. Obviously this is something you have done for a long time. You seem very passionate about it. Thank you for taking the time to set me straight.