The decision to neuter your dog is likely to be one of the most critical choices you make as a pet owner. Unfortunately, there is a lot of conflicting information and advice around choosing the right time to neuter your dog.
There are some benefits for neutering, but also some risks too. Most veterinarians recommend neutering, but do the benefits always outweigh the risks?
Unfortunately, as is often the case, there is no one-size fits-all-answer! Here we’ll look at some of the reasons for and against neutering. We’ll cover some of the specifics for your particular situation and when you should neuter your dog. That way, you, together with your veterinarian, can find the best approach for your pooch.
If you don’t have a veterinarian, check out this guide on how to choose one.
What to expect
Knowledge is power, and it pays to know what to expect when you neuter your dog.
A veterinarian performs the procedure itself. Neutering is a routine operation and is very safe. Complication rates from the surgery are low, and the vast majority of dogs recover quickly and without any problems. The procedure is done under general anesthetic, so your dog is asleep and shouldn’t feel a thing.
Neutering is typically performed as a one-day procedure, so usually, your dog will come home the same day.
There are a few things that you will need to do differently while your pet recovers from the surgery. For more information about what to expect after neutering, read this guide.
Benefits of neutering
There are several scientifically proven benefits to neutering dogs. There are health benefits and some things that can improve the relationship between you and your dog.
Female dogs:
- Cannot get pregnant.
- Cannot get pyometra (womb infection). Pyometra is a common and severe condition that often affects female dogs and usually requires emergency surgery.
- Are much less likely to get mammary cancer if they are neutered while they are young.
- No longer come into season – this can save a lot of mess, and helps prevent interest from male dogs!
- Cannot have “false-pregnancies.” “False pregnancies” sometimes happen after a dog comes out of heat. Affected dogs act like they have puppies, producing milk, and making a nest. Occasionally this needs medical treatment.
Male dogs:
- Are less likely to get prostate disease.
- Are less likely to get certain cancers.
- Neutering can improve behavior, particularly aggression. However, we would strongly advise seeking behavioral advice from a professional before neutering if aggressive behavior is a problem.
Cost of neutering your dog
Neutering costs vary depending on location, your dog’s size, and additional vet services.
On average, neutering a male dog costs $50 to $250, while spaying a female dog costs $200 to $500.
One factor that affects the cost of neutering is where you live. Typically, urban areas have higher prices due to higher overhead costs for veterinary clinics.
Your dog’s size also affects the cost, as larger dogs require more anesthesia and medication during the procedure.
Another factor that may affect the price is whether it includes additional services. Some veterinarians offer package deals that include pre-surgery blood work, pain medications, post-surgery check-ups, and other necessary services. These packages may cost more upfront but can save money in the long run.
It’s also crucial to consider any potential complications or follow-up care after surgery.
In some cases, dogs may experience side effects such as infections or bleeding after surgery, which can result in additional expenses for medication and follow-up appointments with the veterinarian.
While these costs may seem daunting at first glance, it’s essential to remember that they pale compared to potential expenses associated with unplanned litters or health issues that could arise if your pet remains intact.
Spaying and neutering prevent unwanted litters, and reduce pet overpopulation and the risk of certain cancers and behavioral problems.
Some animal shelters and humane societies offer low-cost or even free spay/neuter services for needy pet owners. Some organizations also provide financial assistance for those who qualify.
Risks of neutering
There are some risks associated with neutering, but it is crucial to keep things in perspective. Surgery sounds scary, but serious complications are rare.
The majority of neutering operations go smoothly, and dogs recover quickly.
It is natural to worry about your pet having surgery, but don’t avoid neutering out of fear.
The increased risks you need to take into account when making your decision:
- Certain cancers.
- Cruciate disease rupture.
- Hip disease or hip dysplasia
- Urinary incontinence in female dogs neutered before their first season.
- Obesity.
It is important to note that these risks vary significantly between breeds of dog and the age neutering is performed.
So long as you choose the right age to neuter your dog, these risks can be much lower, and the benefits stay the same.
Obesity is probably the most significant risk on this list, but as long as you reduce the amount you feed your dog, you can avoid it.
What about incontinence?
There is some evidence that neutered female dogs are more likely to be incontinent than dogs that haven’t been neutered. But neutering doesn’t cause incontinence.
There is a link between sex hormones and the urethral sphincter mechanism incompetence (USMI). The urethral sphincter mechanism controls the flow of urine from the bladder and prevents accidental leakage. Dogs with USMI cannot squeeze the muscles at the opening of the bladder hard enough to stop urine leakage.
Some female dogs have USMI and are incontinent from an early age.
When these puppies hit puberty and have their first season, the sex hormones tighten the muscles, and the USMI goes away.
If you neuter these dogs before puberty, this can’t happen. After the muscles tighten at puberty, neutering doesn’t cause them to stop working.
This is another reason why choosing the right time to neuter your dog is essential.
What age should I neuter my dog?
If neutering is done too early or too late, the risks get higher and the benefits lower. As long as you choose the right time to neuter your dog, the benefits outweigh the risk.
The decision on when to neuter your dog depends on their sex and breed. The timing depends on what age they can expect to hit puberty.
When should I neuter my small breed, male dog?
Small breed dogs are less at risk of problems after neutering than large breed dogs. They are much less likely to get cancer or joint problems, and they mature earlier than larger breeds. This means you can safely neuter them at a younger age.
I would recommend neutering the majority of small breed dogs at about one year old. Since their risk of problems after neutering is so much lower, it would even be OK to neuter small dogs before puberty.
When should I neuter my large breed male dog?
This is where the decision gets a bit more complicated.
Larger dog breeds are much more likely to get cancer or joint problems after neutering, and the bigger the dog, the bigger the risk.
For large breed dogs, I would recommend waiting longer before neutering. Between 18 months to 2 years is probably sensible.
Rottweilers seem to be particularly at risk of getting cancer when neutered at a young age, so maybe even later for them!
When should I neuter my female dog?
The breed of dog is less important for female dogs than for males when deciding on the age to neuter.
The most crucial factor is the number of times they come into season before neutering and how long it was since their last season.
Each time a dog comes into heat, their risk of mammary cancer and pyometra increases.
Female dogs should be neutered between seasons and not during them. This means either neutering before any seasons at all or about three months after she last had a season.
As a general rule, I would recommend neutering most female dogs three months after their first season. For smaller breeds of dogs, it can be OK to neuter before their first season. For huge dogs, it may be better to neuter after two seasons. After having three seasons, there is no longer any reduction in the risk of cancer, but you can still avoid pyometra by neutering.
If your puppy shows any signs of not being toilet trained correctly, then I would always recommend waiting until at least after their first heat.
Prepare for neutering
Before scheduling your dog’s neutering procedure, educating yourself on what to expect and how to best prepare for the surgery is essential.
Here are some tips to help you get ready for this important event:
Consult your veterinarian
The first step in preparing for neutering is to consult your veterinarian.
They can guide you through the entire process and answer any questions or concerns you may have.
Your vet will also perform a thorough health examination on your dog to ensure it is healthy enough for surgery.
Follow pre-surgery instructions
Your veterinarian will provide specific instructions to prepare your dog before surgery.
These instructions may include fasting after midnight the night before, withholding water a few hours before surgery, or administering medication.
Arrange transportation
Since your dog will be under anesthesia, they will not be able to walk or stand on their own afterward. You must make transportation arrangements back home after the surgery.
Stock up on supplies
After being neutered, dogs require rest and minimal activity during recovery.
Ensure you have all necessary supplies, such as comfortable bedding, food, and water bowls, within easy reach so your dog can rest comfortably without having to move around too much.
Create a calm environment
Dogs can sense when something is different or when their owners are anxious.
To help ease any nerves or stress surrounding the surgery, create a calm and quiet environment where your dog can relax and recover peacefully.
Book follow-up appointments
Your veterinarian will schedule follow-up appointments to check your dog’s progress and remove stitches.
Make sure to attend these appointments and follow any post-surgery instructions your vet gives.
Help your dog recover
After surgery, proper care and support during your furry friend’s recovery.
Follow these tips to help your dog recover:
Follow post-surgery instructions
Your veterinarian will provide specific post-surgery instructions tailored to your dog’s needs and condition.
It is crucial to follow these instructions carefully, as they will ensure a faster and smoother recovery.
Watch the incision
Check the incision site daily for infection signs, such as redness, swelling, or discharge.
If you notice any symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Limit activity
After surgery, your dog will need rest to heal properly.
Avoid strenuous activities such as running or jumping for at least 10-14 days.
Use an Elizabethan collar
Use an Elizabethan collar (also known as a cone) to prevent your dog from licking or chewing their incision.
This will ensure that the wound stays clean and heals quickly without any complications.
Monitor appetite and hydration
After surgery, dogs often have a decreased appetite due to medications or discomfort.
However, consult with your vet if your dog refuses food or water for more than 24 hours.
Administer medications properly
Your vet may prescribe pain medication or antibiotics after the surgery.
Make sure to give these medications exactly as directed by your veterinarian.
Provide a comfortable recovery space
Create a quiet and comfortable space where your dog can rest during recovery.
Ensure the area is warm enough and has soft bedding for them to lie on.
Focus on your dog
During this time of recovery, spend extra time with your dog, giving it love and attention.
This will not only help your dog feel better but also strengthen your bond with it.
Be patient
Every dog is different, and their recovery time may vary.
Be patient and understanding with your furry friends as they heal from the surgery.
Behavior changes after neutering
Neutering can decrease aggression and territorial behaviors in male dogs and roaming tendencies.
It may also improve obedience and focus during training, but it can also potentially cause weight gain or increased anxiety.
For female dogs, neutering prevents unwanted pregnancies and reduces the risk of health issues.
It can also result in decreased aggressive behaviors, less roaming and urine marking, reduced risk of escaping during heat cycles, calmer demeanor, and increased appetite due to hormone changes.
Final thoughts on determining the right time to neuter your dog
It can be daunting to decide what age to neuter your dog, particularly when there is so much “advice” available.
As long as you follow this guide and speak to your veterinarian, neutering can improve your pet’s health, make your life easier, and ultimately improve the bond you share.
If you need advice on when to neuter your cat, take a look at this post.
Dr. Jordan Turner is a practicing veterinarian working with dogs and cats. He also is the founder of YourPetProfessional, a site that aims to improve the health and welfare of animals by offering trusted, veterinary-approved information.
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