What are neutering and spaying?
Neutering a male dog is a surgical procedure that removes the dog's reproductive organs (the sex glands, or testicles).
Spaying a female dog is a surgical procedure that removes the bitch's reproductive organs (the sex glands, or ovaries).
In males, neutering removes the testicles, while in females spaying removes the ovaries and uterus. Spaying a bitch is a more complex operation than neutering: it takes longer, and so does recovery.
Why spaying female dogs is recommended
- Controlling reproduction. Spaying prevents unwanted puppies.
- Health. Spaying can lower the risk of certain reproductive diseases, such as uterine infection (pyometra) or mammary tumours.
- Behaviour. Spaying can affect a dog's behaviour and reduce behaviour problems driven by sex hormones, such as aggression, disobedience and other unwanted behaviour.
- Convenience. Spaying can reduce unwanted attention from other dogs during a season.
Why neutering male dogs is recommended
- Controlling reproduction. Neutering prevents unwanted breeding. This helps control the population and reduces the number of stray dogs.
- Health. Neutering can lower the risk of certain reproductive diseases, such as prostate disease. It also lowers the likelihood of diseases caused by sex hormones and of hormone-driven behaviour problems.
- Behaviour. Neutering can reduce or even eliminate some forms of unwanted behaviour, such as aggression, territory marking and running away from home.
- Getting along with others. A neutered dog may find it easier to get along with other dogs and people, and any tendency towards aggression or dominance may lessen.
A bitch's season
A season (heat) is the part of the reproductive cycle when a bitch can become pregnant. It lasts about 3–4 weeks and starts once a bitch reaches sexual maturity, at around 6–12 months of age. Bitches usually come into season about twice a year (every 5–10 months).
Signs of a season:
- bleeding from the vulva;
- frequent urination;
- excitability;
- a strong attraction to males (the bitch may run away from home).
During a season, take care that your bitch does not get pregnant by accident. Keep her on a lead on walks, watch her and avoid places where there may be other dogs. The most effective way to prevent an unwanted pregnancy is spaying.
When to spay bitches and neuter male dogs
Bitches are usually recommended to be spayed between 6 and 12 months of age, and males neutered from 10 months, unless there is a reason to do it sooner. Older dogs, and bitches that have already had puppies, can also be neutered or spayed.
Your vet will choose the right time for the operation based on your dog's breed and health. Make the decision after careful thought and a consultation with your vet, who will explain every detail of the procedure.
