Neutering your dog

If you're not planning to breed from your dog, neutering is worth considering. This article explains the procedure and its pros and cons.

What neutering involves

Neutering your pet means surgically preventing them from reproducing. In females it is called spaying, and in males it is called castration.

When a female dog is spayed, the ovaries and usually the womb are removed, so she can no longer become pregnant or come into season.

Castration is the removal of both testicles. This removes the main source of the male hormone testosterone.

Neutering is always done under a general anaesthetic. As with any operation, there are some risks, and your vet will explain them. Your dog will have some discomfort afterwards, so your vet will give you aftercare advice and pain relief.

What age should my dog be neutered?

The best age depends on your dog's breed, size and sex. Ask your vet for advice for your dog.

For female dogs, there are pros and cons to spaying before or after the first season. Your vet can help you weigh these up.

Possible benefits for male dogs

• Prevents testicular cancer and reduces the risk of some prostate problems.
• May make them less likely to roam, which lowers the risk of going missing, getting into fights or being injured.
• May reduce mounting and other hormone-driven behaviours.

Possible benefits for female dogs

• Prevents pyometra, a life-threatening womb infection.
• Prevents unwanted pregnancies. Pregnancy and giving birth carry risks for the mother.
• Reduces the risk of mammary tumours.
• Stops seasons, and the false pregnancies that some females have after a season.

Will neutering change my dog's behaviour?

Some owners worry that neutering will change their dog's personality. Neutering can reduce hormone-driven behaviours such as roaming and mounting, but it won't fix every behaviour problem. Talk to your vet if your dog is anxious or fearful.

Weight after neutering

Neutered dogs can put on weight more easily, so watch their weight and ask your vet about adjusting their food.

Recovery

Follow your vet's aftercare advice. Keep your dog calm, stop them licking the wound, and go to any check-ups. Contact your vet if the wound looks swollen, red or is leaking, or if your dog seems unwell, won't eat or is very quiet.

Only give pain relief that your vet has prescribed for your dog. Never give human painkillers.