Neutering a dog: latest guidance on when, why and what to consider
Neutering a dog is a common procedure, but deciding if and when to neuter is not always straightforward. Advice has changed in recent years, and current guidance now recommends a more individual approach rather than a one-size-fits-all decision. This article brings together the latest publicly available guidance to help dog owners understand what to consider and support informed discussions with their veterinary surgeon.
What does neutering a dog mean?
Neutering a dog is the procedure that prevents a dog from reproducing. In female dogs this is often referred to as spaying, and in male dogs this is often referred to as castration. The procedure is carried out by a veterinary surgeon and involves the removal of reproductive organs.
Although it is a common procedure, it is not an insignificant one. The decision to go ahead and the ideal timing of the procedure can vary greatly depending on the individual dog and should be considered carefully alongside discussion with your veterinarian.
Why do owners choose neutering?
The obvious benefit is that it prevents unwanted pregnancies. Unwanted puppies can increase the stray population and increase the number of puppies ending up in, already overwhelmed, shelters and rescue centres. Pregnancy can also impact the health and welfare of the mother.
There are a number of health conditions associated with the uterus, ovaries and testicles that neutering can help prevent. However, it is worth being aware that there is evidence that the risk of some health conditions increases with neutering in some breeds of dog.
Female dogs have seasons - commonly referred to as being ‘on heat’. An unspayed dog will come into season approximately every 6 months. During this time, female dogs can experience mood swings and will bleed. Owners also need to be careful and take extra precautions when walking their dog outside if she is in season to prevent an unexpected mating. Spaying will stop your dog from coming into season.
Behaviour and neutering: what to be aware of
The relationship between neutering a dog and behaviour can be complex. While hormones can influence certain behaviours, many commonly reported issues such as aggression, humping or marking may also be linked to factors like stress, frustration or the environment.
Neutering may influence behaviours that are hormonally driven, but it may not address behaviours with other underlying causes. Where behaviour is a concern, seeking input from a registered Clinical Animal Behaviourist alongside veterinary advice can be helpful before making the decision to neuter your dog.
When should you neuter a dog?
Recent guidance from the British Veterinary Association (BVA) and British Small Animal Veterinary Association (BSAVA) highlights that neutering decisions should be made on a case by case basis. This is a shift away from the historically standard ‘blanket’ policy of neutering all dogs at 6 months of age.
What does the latest guidance say?
Guidance suggests waiting until the dog has reached maturity as limiting the exposure to hormones during puppyhood can have an impact on musculoskeletal development. Skeletal maturity is reached between 12 and 24 months depending on the breed, with larger dogs maturing later. This reduces the risk of orthopaedic conditions developing, although the risks vary depending on breed so this should be discussed with your vet.
Spaying of female dogs is generally recommended unless they are intended for breeding. The spay should take place during the anoestrus phase, which is usually 3-4 months after their season ends. Spaying too early in their cycle (within 6 weeks of the end of their ‘heat’ period) can increase the risk of getting stuck in the hormonal phase of a false pregnancy (phantom pregnancy). When dogs have a phantom pregnancy they may begin nesting and can become anxious and sometimes aggressive over objects linked to their ‘nest’ which can be stressful for both dog and owner.
Castration in males for behavioural reasons should be considered carefully. Castration can exacerbate fear-based aggression so assessment by a registered Clinical Animal Behaviourist should be carried out before proceeding. In these cases, your vet may discuss with you non-permanent alternatives to neutering.
What to consider before neutering
A case by case assessment should take place before neutering, particularly for male dogs. When deciding when to neuter a dog, factors that may be considered include:
- Age and stage of development
- Breed and size
- Medical considerations
- Behaviour and temperament
- Lifestyle of the dog
- Lifestyle of the owner
- Household environment e.g. other dogs
- Potential impacts on long term health
FAQs about neutering a dog
Neutering is a common procedure, but whether it is appropriate depends on the individual dog and owner.
Current guidance suggests that timing should be tailored to the individual dog. Your vet can advise based on breed, age and health.
Neutering may affect hormone-related behaviours, but not all behaviour changes are linked to hormones.
Recent guidance suggests waiting until maturity (12-24 months) is beneficial, particularly for larger breeds.
Making the best decision for you and your pet
Understanding the current recommendations can help you have informed discussions and make the best decision for your dog’s overall wellbeing.
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