Why neuter?
There are health and behaviourial advantages in both male and female dogs if they are neutered. It also helps to keep the dog population under control by preventing unwanted puppies which may be abandoned or destroyed.
What is neutering?
Neutering is a general term used for the surgical removal of the reproductive organs in both male and female animals. Neutering is usually known as “spaying” in females and “castration” in males.
Neutering should not make your dog fat. Inactivity and poor feeding habits are generally to blame for this, although some dogs may gain weight initially due to changes in metabolism. Monitor your dog’s weight for a while and adjust food and exercise as appropriate. Ask your vet for advice if necessary.
It is not the case that female dogs “need” a litter of puppies before spaying as is sometimes thought. Neither is the operation thought likely to change their personality or any efficiency in a working dog.
What are the actual health advantages?
- Pregnancy can cause significant health risks.
- False pregnancies are not unknown and usually require veterinary treatment.
- It can reduce the risk of some cancers developing in both female and male dogs.
- It can also stop female dogs suffering from potentially fatal womb infections.
What are the behavioural advantages?
- It will encourage calmer, more predictable behaviour.
- Your dog could be less likely to stray or to "mark" it's territory.
- When a female dog comes into season she can start to behave strangely, especially trying to escape to find a mate.
- When a male dog knows that a local dog is in season they may become desperate to escape (even jumping out of windows or running across busy roads).
What is the best time to get my pet neutered?
Most vets will neuter dogs of either sex from about six months old. The “best” age varies between breeds. For further advice contact your vet.
How much will it cost?
The cost will vary depending on the size and breed of your dog, but will be cheaper than feeding and caring for a litter of puppies! Your local vet will be able to advise you on the cost of the procedure.
Other Pets
Do not forget about other pets in your household:
Cats can be neutered from approx six months old. It will prevent the risk of infection and cancer in female cats and stop them coming into season, attracting unwanted attention from the male cats in the area. Females should be kept indoors until they have been spayed. It will reduce the risk of male cats spraying urine in the house and becoming aggressive. Entire male cats will roam over a large area which increases the risk of them straying, fighting and being involved in accident.
Rabbits are usually four months old when neutering is done. It tends to make them easier to handle and less aggressive. Keep male and female rabbits apart until they have been neutered because a female rabbit can become pregnant as early as 16 weeks old.
