| No, there is NO reason at all to have one litter before being spayed, that's an old wives' tale and it contributes massively to the over-population problem.
Regarding temperament, it will even her out more, no more hormonal swings before/after her cycle (I'm sure you can relate to that!). The dislike of stragers sounds like lack of socialization and this is prime time to continue working on that. See if you can get her into a basic obedience class even if she "knows her commands." This will help strengthen the bond between you, as well as get her out and exposed to more new people and new dogs.
You need to wait at least one month after her heat before spaying (to allow the blood engorgement to go away). Due to the breed's increased risk of osteosarcoma (bone cancer) when neutered at a young age, I would wait until she hits 1 year, and then do it. Since you don't know how long/short her cycle will be (i.e. until she comes in again), this should safely "age her" with regards to the bone CA, but still keep her far enough from her next heat (you need to spay 1mos before/after a heat cycle) that you should be ok.
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Gretchen Caldwell
"I request permission to join the Validity Committee." - Dwight |