BUSINESS Should I Neuter My Dog?
This is a frequently asked question at the surgery. In summary, unless you plan to breed from your dog or bitch, Vets, Behaviourists and Animal Welfare Organisations are strongly in favour of neutering.
Why Should I get my Male Dog Neutered?
• Castration (removal of the testicles) signifi cantly reduces the chance of them developing prostate disease and reduces the risk of certain cancers.
• Unneutered Males can become frustrated and may try to escape. This increases their chances of being hit by a car, going missing or getting into a fi ght.
• They are less likely to show aggression towards other dogs and also less likely to be the target of aggression from another dog.
• An unneutered dog may direct their amorous intentions towards your favourite cushions... or worse still, your visiting Auntie!!
Why Should I get my Female Dog (bitch) Neutered?
• Neutering signifi cantly reduces the chances of them developing mammary tumours (breast cancer), particularly if carried out in early years.
• It also eliminates the chance of a womb infection (pyometra). Both pyometra and mammary cancers are seen quite commonly in older unneutered bitches and can be very serious and sometimes fatal.
• Pregnancy and birth can be risky to the Mum.
• Many unneutered females have a false pregnancy after a season which can be distressing and cause medical and behavioural problems.
• Seasons last for about three weeks, they can be messy and she may attract a stream of hopeful male dogs to the front door!
• If she comes pregnant you will be responsible for up to 12 puppies!
Disadvantages of Neutering
• It can reduce the metabolic rate of your dog by up to 25%. However, by feeding a quality diet, holding off on treats and getting plenty of exercise will control any tendency towards weight gain.
• Middle aged and older neutered bitches (particularly larger breeds) can develop hormone-responsive incontinence. The dog passes urine normally but may wet themselves when relaxed or asleep. Generally, this is easily treated with medication.
Some Misconceptions
• Many people have been led to believe that allowing a bitch to have a litter gives some health benefi ts or improvement in temperament. There is currently NO evidence to support these theories.
• Neutering changes a dog’s character? While neutering is often done in dogs and bitches to control
some unwanted behavioural problems (they often become calmer after neutering), they do not lose their spirit or change their personality.
• “I would not like my testicles removed!” Dogs do not consider their body image as we do and will not be affected by their removal! If they don’t have an outlet for their sexual urges they can become frustrated, often making neutering the kinder option.
The risks
Any anaesthetic or surgical procedure carries a small element of risk. However, complications from castration are very rare and usually minor. Spaying (neutering females) is a bigger operation. Complications here are also rare but can be more serious.
In general, it is our view that the benefi ts of neutering far outweigh the risks. It is however, always advisable that you discuss these issues in full with your vet. We can hopefully set your mind at rest and help you make the right choice for you and your pet.
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