When is the best time to have your dog neutered or spayed?

Having your dog spayed or neutered not only prevents unwanted litters, but can also help to curb undesirable behaviors and even reduce the risk of certain diseases. Here, our Davidson County vets explain why getting your dog fixed could save you money and hassle.

Why should I get my dog neutered or spayed?

If you have a new puppy you might be wondering why you should get your dog fixed, particularly if your dog will be on-leash during walks and otherwise confined to your home and garden.

In fact, there are many reasons to have your dog fixed, including some significant health benefits, behavioral benefits, and possibly even financial benefits!

Are there benefits to getting my female dog spayed?

Across the US, animal shelters are filled with unwanted dogs. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) estimates that 3.3 million dogs pass through shelters each year. 

Spayed Dog Health Benefits

Spaying your female dog before her first 'heat' can help to prevent uterine infections and breast tumors which can often be malignant or cancerous.

Spayed Dog Financial Benefits

Preventing the birth of unwanted puppies is good for your pocketbook. While there is a fee for spaying, this fee is relatively low when compared to the cost of caring for a pregnant dog, calling a vet to the birth of the puppies and caring for newborns.

Deciding Not To Spay Your Female Dog

When female dogs are not spayed, they go through a reproductive stage often referred to as 'heat' about twice a year. During this stage, male dogs will be attracted to your female for about 18 days. This can lead to unwanted male dogs visiting your yard and possibly unwanted puppies.

What are the benefits of getting my male dog neutered?

As with spaying female dogs, when you neuter your male dog you help to reduce the population of unwanted dogs in the United States, but that's not all.

Neutered Dog Health Benefits

By neutering your dog, you eliminate the risk of them developing testicular cancer and significantly reduce the risk of prostate diseases which can be serious. Neutering also helps to reduce the risk of perianal tumors and perineal hernias in your dog.

Neutered Dog Behavioral Benefits

Neutering can help to curb your dog's desire to roam and may help to reduce behaviors such as mounting and aggression towards other dogs.

Deciding Not To Neuter Your Male Dog

There are a number of undesirable behaviors that are typical of male dogs that have not been neutered. These include heightened territorial behavior, being over-protective of people and toys, roaming (seeking female dogs), and aggression towards other dogs.

When is the best time to get a puppy fixed?

Typically, puppies are spayed or neutered between five to nine months of age. Adult dogs can also be spayed or neutered. Speak to your vet to find out when you should get your four-legged friend fixed. 

What should I expect when getting my puppy fixed?

Your vet will provide you with detailed pre-surgical instructions which may include restricting your pet's food and water before the scheduled surgery. 

Once the surgery is complete your vet will provide you with post-operative instructions for helping your dog recover comfortably. Depending on which procedure has been performed, pain medication may be sent home with your dog.

Generally, female dogs take longer to recover after being spayed than male dogs after being neutered.

Once a female has been spayed, she is considered sterile and unable to have puppies. However, it is important to note that male dogs are not considered sterile immediately following surgery! It can take as long as 6 weeks for a neutered male to be considered sterile.

Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.

Ready to get your dog neutered or spayed? Contact our Davidson County vets today to book an appointment for your canine companion.