Bruce,

Thank you for the information. I am a first time breeder and this is the first breeding for my bitch. I think the male has only bred 4 or 5 times. The sire is about 6 years old and the dam is just over 3 years. We were going to go the progesterone test route, however it was very expensive as the local Vet only did it in house. Her color had changed the day before we tried the breeding. The attempts were continued for 5 days. We kept in very close contact to the breeder that I received my bitch from during the attempts. He stated that with his Labs, they are most receptive between the 12 to the 14th day. I guess it may depend on the breed.
We assisted the breeding as you stated, but if she was not ready, as you know, she will not accept.
I am breeding field dogs, not show. I am sure this does not matter though.
Thank you very much for your insight, and I will use the information in the future. It is very nice to have information from other breeders as I start out.

OhioDuckHunter