A birth, whether human or canine, brings joy, though the celebration varies by species. A puppy’s arrival—especially if not a stray—sparks delight, warming the hearts of owners, whether for companionship, commercial purposes, or genuine affection. The mother dog vigilantly cares for her pups, who, immobile in their early days, rely on her milk for nourishment. This milk, rich in essential nutrients, fuels their physical growth during this budding stage.

Gestation and Early Care

The gestation period for puppies lasts about nine weeks before they enter the world. Multiple births, like triplets or quadruplets, are common and unremarkable in the canine world. Post-birth, the mother’s licking is vital, shaping the pups physically and providing warmth against harsh weather. In this neonatal phase, the mother handles all their needs, as pups lack control over their bodily functions.

Puppies are born blind, deaf, but not mute, as their early vocalizations suggest. Their eyelids, initially sealed, begin to open around day 12, revealing blue eyes that perceive only shades. Bright light can harm their delicate, newly opened eyes, which take time to recognize objects. By this stage, pups double their body weight and start crawling, entering a transitional period. Here, they respond to human interaction, making it an ideal time to begin taming with consistent effort.

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Female Dogs: The Pros

• Generally, female dogs are easier to train than males and are more likely to listen to all household members, not just the person they consider the head of the house.
• Most dog experts believe female dogs are more affectionate than their male counterparts, although many male dogs also enjoy belly rubs and snuggling with their owners.
• Female dogs tend to be more docile and less aggressive towards strangers and other dogs. This can be a major consideration for those living in urban areas, having children around, or seeking a dog with a specific breed predisposition to aggression.
• Female dogs are often better at forming friendships with other animals or small children in the house.
• Female dogs are easier to housetrain and can hold their bladders longer.
• Like humans, female dogs are usually smaller than males within the same breed.
• Female dogs do not tend to ‘mark’ their territory; they usually void their bladders entirely in one go.

Female Dogs: The Cons

• Female dogs can be more nervous and high-strung than males.
• The cost of spaying a female dog is generally higher than neutering a male.
• Female dog urine can ‘burn’ or kill grass, leading to a patchwork of yellow rings in your yard.

Male Dogs: The Pros

• Male dogs tend to be more protective of their belongings and families. This can be both a pro and a con, depending on circumstances. While a large dog can deter intruders, some male breeds may exhibit protective temperaments that could be challenging to manage daily.
• Male dogs are usually larger and more robust, with a higher endurance level than females, making them appealing as working dogs and canine athletes.
• Male dogs typically have more energy and enjoy playful activities more than females.
• Neutering a male dog is usually less expensive than spaying a female.

Male Dogs: The Cons

• Early training is necessary to prevent guarding behavior over food and objects.
• Male dogs lift their legs to urinate, marking their territory, which can damage bushes, flowers, and buildings.
• Male dogs can be harder to housetrain and are more prone to ‘accidents.’
• Males are larger and require more calories, meaning they eat more food.

The Two-Dog Family

While many pairs of the same gender can be the best of friends, this is often due to special circumstances, such as being littermates or raised together since puppyhood. If you already have a dog, consider adopting or purchasing the opposite gender for better compatibility. Most trainers agree that a male and a female combination is preferable.

Always Spay or Neuter Your Pets

Spaying and neutering not only help reduce the pet overpopulation crisis, but they also minimize many pros and cons associated with each gender. After these procedures, pets can focus more on their owners rather than their innate desire to reproduce. Neutered male dogs are often less aggressive and territorial, making them easier to train. Both spaying and neutering can be done as early as eight weeks old without side effects. The old wives’ tale suggesting that it’s better for a female to go through a heat cycle or have a litter is just that—an old wives’ tale. Getting your pet ‘fixed’ before six months old almost guarantees they will not suffer from mammary, prostate, or testicular cancer, respectively.

Should Which Should You Choose?

Before purchasing or adopting a dog, take time to consider which traits fit best with your lifestyle. Are you a hunter? A male dog may be a better choice due to their higher endurance. Want a dog that will be patient with your children? A female dog is often more tolerant of misbehavior, helping to teach children appropriate behavior. Remember, your decision is significant and will last the lifetime of your new four-legged family member. Make sure it’s a good one!

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As hard as it is to resist those soulful puppy-dog eyes, it’s important to remember that giving in to his begging isn’t always in your puppy’s best interest.

Aside from the fact that feeding your dog from the table reinforces negative behavior (begging), some human food can be harmful to your dog, even in small quantities.

While the simplest and safest solution is to avoid giving your dog any table food, there are some foods that are safe in small amounts. Table food should never make up the majority of your puppy’s diet. Dog food is specially formulated with the nutrients and vitamins that dogs need, making it very difficult to meet your dog’s nutritional needs by feeding him only table scraps. However, as an occasional treat or to break up the monotony of his diet, giving him some of your leftovers is acceptable.

Some owners think that trimming the fat from a roast or other meats makes a perfect treat for their pet. However, fat trimmings should not be given to dogs, as they can lead to pancreatitis. Table scraps of meat should always have the fat trimmed and should never contain any bones.

Don’t Give Your Dog Poultry or Fish Bones

Poultry and fish bones are particularly hazardous, as they are brittle and easy for a dog—especially a small dog—to choke on. Even other bones should be avoided because they can cause damage to the intestines. Additionally, some dogs may have an allergic reaction to the bone marrow, which can lead to severe diarrhea and vomiting.

Many foods pose a danger because they can cause an obstruction in the puppy’s throat or digestive tract. Pits from peaches and plums are one example of such a hazard.

Also to be avoided are chocolate, certain types of nuts, and grapes and raisins—these all contain toxins that can be very dangerous to a puppy.

It may be difficult to resist the urge to treat your puppy with the same foods you enjoy, but it’s important to remember that dogs have a different metabolism than humans.

There are safer ways to treat your puppy than with table scraps. Several companies offer products that can be used like gravy, which you can pour over their food to provide new textures and flavors. Some of these products can even be heated, allowing your puppy to enjoy a warm meal.

If you want to share YOUR dinner with your puppy, trim the fat off a small piece of chicken or beef as an occasional treat. However, to keep your dog in top shape, it’s best to stick to the food that is specifically made to meet his needs.

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Many experts offer differing — and often conflicting — ideas about how to discipline a puppy. It can be difficult to decide which method is best. However, there are a few general guidelines to keep in mind when disciplining your new best friend.

Some Methods Instill Fear in Puppies

Hitting or shaking your puppy is never a good idea. While it may stop the unwanted behavior temporarily, it will also teach your puppy to be afraid of people. In addition to causing your puppy to avoid you, it can also teach your puppy to be aggressive toward humans in general.

If you hit your puppy and then later reach out to pet him, all he will associate with your hand coming toward him is fear. Instead, choose a method of discipline that encourages proper behavior through rewards and discourages unwanted behavior by startling your puppy with a loud noise, such as shaking a can full of pennies.

Caught in the Act

If you walk up on a mess made by your puppy and your puppy is not in sight, this is not the time to try and teach him a lesson. Unless you can correct the unwanted behavior AS IT IS TAKING PLACE, your efforts will be in vain.

If you drag your puppy over to a mess he made earlier and tell him “NO,” he will likely not understand what he did wrong.

Instead, reserve discipline for when you catch him in the act. Keep some type of noisemaker handy. Pet stores and online pet supply sites sell special whistles for this purpose. Equally effective is the aforementioned can of pennies, a shrill whistle, or simply a loud “NO” from you.

The noise should startle your puppy enough to stop the behavior. Then, after he’s distracted, redirect his attention to a more acceptable behavior.

Accentuate the Positive

Enforcing the behavior you want is just as important as discouraging unwanted behavior. When drawing your puppy away from unacceptable actions and pointing him toward acceptable behavior, reward him when he acts appropriately. If you catch him mauling his chew toy instead of your favorite chair, reward him verbally and, perhaps, with a treat.

By reinforcing the behavior you want, you’re giving your dog an additional reason to behave appropriately.

Prevention is the Best Medicine

It’s much harder for your puppy to misbehave if he’s not left alone in tempting situations. Until your puppy has learned what is acceptable, supervision is key. Keep an eye on your puppy when he is roaming free around the house. Work on crate training, so that when you are away, your pet has a safe place to rest while awaiting your return. This not only provides limits for your pup but also protects your belongings!

Another reason supervision is important was discussed earlier: For discipline to be effective, you must catch your puppy in the act of misbehaving.

What will work depends largely on your puppy’s personality. Some methods that work well for one puppy may not be as effective for another. Keep experimenting with different techniques until you find one that works for you.

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Between the ages of eight and twelve weeks, puppies go through an imprinting stage that allows mental associations to be formed during different activities. This is a critical time to introduce your pup to many new stimuli each day. However, ensure that you can safely control each new situation, as one bad experience can cause major setbacks. Keep an upbeat attitude during socialization, and reward positive behavior. Ignore negative reactions; coddling will reward fearful reactions and encourage apprehension.

To begin socialization, start small and gradually increase the size and scope of new encounters. Invite a few friends over to meet your new puppy. Include men, women, children, older adults, and people of different sizes and shapes. Have friends bring a friendly cat, dog, or another puppy to play with yours. Make sure these animals are current on vaccinations and that you know they will be friendly with your pup. You can even take your pup to someone else’s home to meet their pets; this will also introduce car rides with a positive reward at the end (playtime). Once your pet seems comfortable with other people and animals, take him to dog parks, shopping centers, or even school playgrounds. Simply walking around these places will expose your puppy to loud noises, unpredictable movement, and different smells.

Introduce Inanimate Objects Gradually
To help your pup become comfortable with inanimate objects, start by introducing household items like umbrellas, boxes, and vacuum cleaners. The vacuum cleaner can be particularly challenging for dogs to get used to, so begin by wheeling it out for your pup to sniff and investigate. After a few encounters, turn the vacuum on for a short time to allow your dog to hear the noise it makes. Eventually, he will realize that the big, scary vacuum does him no harm, and he will learn to ignore it.

Grooming should also be introduced at this stage, including brushing, bathing, nail clipping, and teeth and ear cleaning. Touch your pup’s entire body from head to tail, including the belly, and pay particular attention to handling the feet. Dogs often have foot and nail problems, and veterinarians can struggle to treat animals that will not allow their paws to be touched. A dog with sensitive areas may bite out of fear, so be sure to spend plenty of time handling your puppy.

Take Your Puppy to School

Joining a puppy or kindergarten class is another great way to safely introduce your pet to other pups and begin obedience training. Before enrolling, observe a few classes to ensure you are comfortable with the trainer and their techniques. Learning new skills will improve your dog’s confidence, expend energy, and encourage mental stimulation! Make sure you do not allow your puppy to be bullied by other dogs, and break up rough play that may be intimidating for your dog.

Remember, you are working with a puppy who needs a lot of sleep and may tire quickly. Keep training sessions short, interesting, and fun. Be a leader for your pup—since he is away from his mom, he will look to you for protection and guidance. Be consistent, maintain control over each situation, and progress slowly.

Puppies are one of life’s greatest joys. Enjoy your puppy while he is still little, but remember that you are responsible for teaching him proper behavior. Puppy socialization allows your animal to grow up knowing that he is safe, protected, and loved. As a result, he will remain calm and confident in new situations, and you will have a companion that you can safely share with the world.

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Although a tiny puppy nipping at your hands may seem cute, if the behavior isn’t nipped in the bud while he’s still a puppy, problems could arise later on. By not taking steps to stop the biting, you are reinforcing a behavior that could cause your dog, when he’s grown, to injure you or someone else.

You should never try to stop a puppy’s biting by hitting him. Remember, the puppy isn’t doing anything bad. He is simply doing what comes naturally to him. If he were part of a pack of dogs, the other dogs in the group would teach him when his biting had gone too far. You can use a similar method of teaching, as would occur among a group of dogs, by following a few simple steps.

First, let the puppy know that he’s hurt you.

Yell “No!” or make a noise similar to a dog yelping. Normally, this will startle the puppy, and he will stop. If he goes right back to biting you, make the noise again and then leave the area. This is similar to what another puppy or an older dog would do if the biting became too rough.

This approach teaches the puppy two things:

1. He has hurt you, and
2. If he continues, you will leave him without anyone to play with.

The puppy doesn’t want to hurt you, and he doesn’t want to be left alone. By doing these two things consistently, he will learn that biting has consequences he doesn’t like.

Giving Your Puppy a Time Out

If, when you walk away, the puppy continues to follow you and bite at your leg, gently place him in his “time out” spot. This can be his crate or a corner in the house. However, if you crate him when you leave, you might not want to use the crate as punishment, as you don’t want him to associate it with a negative experience. In that case, pick a spot in the house that he will associate with time out. It should always be the same spot. Over time, when you say “bad dog corner!” he’ll know exactly where to go.

NOTE: When teaching your puppy not to bite, or in any other training situation, it’s important not to yell or become overly emotional. Speak to your puppy in a matter-of-fact way. Even when you release your puppy from the crate or corner, do not make a fuss. Release him and then ignore him for a few minutes before petting or playing with him.

Next, you’ve got to remember that a puppy must bite something. Your goal shouldn’t be to stop him from all biting; rather, you should teach him to stop biting YOU (and your furniture and shoes!). For this reason, a good supply of chew toys is essential. When the puppy bites your hand, or if you see him about to bite into your furniture, yell “No!” and immediately put a chew toy in his mouth. This teaches him which items are acceptable for him to chew. If he doesn’t seem interested in the toys at first, you might want to try one that holds a treat inside.

The puppy will smell the treat and keep chewing until the treat comes out. Over time, he will begin to associate biting you or the furniture with bad consequences (such as you leaving or a time-out) and will associate chew toys with positive rewards. Naturally, the chew toy will become much more appealing to him.

Keep an ample supply of chew toys in every room that your puppy visits. This will help curb his temptation to bite things (and people) that he shouldn’t. If he is surrounded by items that he’s allowed to chew on, he’ll be less likely to bite you or chew on unacceptable items.

Keep in mind that some games, such as tug-of-war, can actually encourage biting. If you find you’re having trouble teaching your puppy not to bite, you should avoid rough games like these, at least until your dog is fully trained.

Another important step in teaching your puppy not to bite is establishing your position as pack leader. When you give a command, he needs to learn to obey it. This won’t happen overnight, but training should start early, as young pups are easier to train than older dogs.

Teaching your puppy not to bite while he’s still a puppy will make your life easier and help your dog become what he wants to be: a good dog!

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At the age of seven to twelve weeks, your puppy is in a bond-forming stage, eager to establish a relationship with anyone around her. She will learn that she belongs to a family—your family—and will take her place within it. Be aware that, because your puppy is a social creature, she will try to find her rank among those around her. The testing stage will begin shortly, where your puppy begins to identify weak spots in the existing leadership and tests them as a teenager would. An absence of solid leadership will make puppy training much more difficult and can result in dangerous, complicated behavioral problems in the years to come.

Because we love our cute puppies, it can be difficult to be stern and consistent when it comes to rules and boundaries. However, providing clear leadership is essential. It is critically important to teach a puppy self-control. Among dogs, a puppy usually has free rein to behave as she pleases until approximately sixteen to eighteen weeks of age. At this point, adult dogs will begin to set boundaries themselves to teach proper behavior to the pup, and it is time for you to do the same. For example, a puppy is no longer allowed to jump up on people. If your pup greets you this way, turn the other direction until she stops jumping. Only say hello and pet her when all four paws are on the ground. To teach her that she may only have her toys when you allow it, put them out of her reach, and give her one only when she is behaving well. Do not make excuses for puppy behavior at this point. The pup is old enough to understand rules, and giving in to unacceptable behavior will undermine your authority.

The Alpha Dog

Becoming the alpha dog, or pack leader, will help your puppy become calmer and will give you much greater leverage and control in further training. Anyone who owns two dogs will notice that one always establishes dominance over the other. This is how the dogs know their place and duty. Just as a sheep-herding dog will see the sheep as her family and fiercely protect them, your dog will fiercely protect your family as she grows older and more capable, if she deems it necessary. When you try to intervene by teaching her not to bark at the neighbors or attack other dogs while out walking, she will not listen because you are her subordinate.

The best time to establish your dominance over a dog—especially a large breed—is during puppyhood. This is not a license for abuse, but rather a way of setting rules for proper behavior and gradually asking for respect, all while keeping in mind reasonable expectations for your animal. Be consistent with positive reinforcement for good behavior, and be aware of exactly what you are teaching your puppy about manners and behavior. One tip to remember is that a tired puppy is usually a well-behaved puppy, so keep up the exercise. A walk is a great way to establish leadership, as long as you are walking your dog and not the other way around.

When you begin puppy training at the right age, you set the foundation for a solid, trusting relationship between you and your dog. Love your puppy, but understand that pack rules are a natural part of life. You will be much more effective at training and behavior modification as the pack leader, and your cute puppy will grow into your happy, respectful companion.

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Those little razor-sharp baby teeth might make Fido look as cute as a button with his wide “cheese” grin, but they can also leave deep cuts in human flesh during accidental nips. God forbid you find yourself on the receiving end of an intentional bite—it feels like those tiny razors are slicing through vital arteries, even if it’s just a finger. Most people are grateful when these little dagger blades are finally replaced by their grown-up counterparts. Since dogs don’t have their own personal tooth fairy, humans often miss the subtle changes as the teeth shift. Occasionally, you might find one of those little lost teeth underfoot, like a surprise gift on the way to the shower—definitely not the most pleasant discovery, especially considering how much worse it felt when your puppy nipped you during a game of ball.

It seems that nature has given dogs some protection against the discomfort of losing baby teeth. While human children may become cautious about what they chew on when losing baby teeth, dogs don’t have that luxury. They can’t opt for the softer, more manageable applesauce over their hard, crunchy kibble. Nature seems to spare them from any noticeable discomfort—or at least, that’s what we, as their humans, like to believe.

It’s rare to find a puppy’s baby tooth lying around on the floor. More likely, any lost teeth will be found clinging to a chew toy, stuck where the pressure pushed them in, but left behind as the toy becomes their new “mouth.” Most of the time, however, humans never find any baby teeth at all, because dogs typically swallow them when they fall out. The first time you’ll likely notice this change in your puppy is when there’s a sudden gap in their front teeth, like they’ve been socked right in the kisser.

Puppies begin to lose their baby teeth at 4 months of age

Since puppies are so slick about dropping their baby teeth and growing in their more formidable permanent fangs, it can be tough to pinpoint when exactly they lose their baby teeth. The average age is about 4 months, that sweet yet troublesome stage when puppies begin acting like petulant adolescents, convinced they know everything while living with the world’s most clueless humans. The range varies, depending on the dog’s size and breed. Most puppies lose their baby teeth between 3 and 6 months, though some stubborn breeds might hold onto theirs into the seventh or eighth month.

Long ago, right around the dawn of life on Earth, mammals were born with just one set of teeth. As teeth broke, wore down, or were lost during fights or other survival stunts, new teeth grew in to replace them. Around 250 million years ago, mammals evolved a two-set teeth system, which has served both puppies and humans well. The sharper baby teeth compensate for a lack of jaw strength, while the stronger permanent teeth provide better durability and positioning. It’s a pretty solid system—until your dog starts losing those adult teeth to decay.

Fortunately, oral hygiene for dogs is finally gaining recognition as an important quality-of-life issue. Dogs should have an annual cleaning (sometimes more frequently, depending on needs) and have oral care as part of their routine vet visits. Teeth can rot quickly, leaving your dog with finicky eating habits and unexplained pain. Dogs can’t exactly come to their humans complaining about a headache caused by a bad tooth, nor can they explain the sharp, burning sensation that blinds them whenever they try to crunch down on something. They can’t say how much they’d appreciate that chewy treat if it didn’t feel like they were chewing on glass with every bite.

So, when do puppies lose their baby teeth? Besides the obvious answer—that it happens when their permanent teeth are pushing through—the general rule is that larger dogs tend to start losing their baby teeth around 3 months, while smaller breeds might hang on to them until closer to 6 months. Of course, these are just guidelines, and like any other milestone, your puppy will reach this one when he’s ready.

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There are benefits and drawbacks to different dogs. Whether you want a large or small dog often depends on your personal preferences, the space you have available, how settled you are in life, and your tendency to travel. If you have your heart set on a specific breed, you’ll probably gravitate toward that, although there are advantages to adopting a basic mutt. Dogs with indeterminate genetics tend to have fewer health problems than purebreds.

If you’re still living in an apartment or rental space, you may want to consider a smaller dog. Some apartment complexes allow only dogs up to 25 pounds, and some landlords prefer smaller dogs as well.

Finding a litter can be the most challenging part. Shelters are a great place to start, although puppies rarely stay there for long. If you visit a shelter and find a puppy, spend as much time with him as possible before committing. Remember, adopting a puppy is a lifelong commitment. Taking the time to choose the right one is essential.

If you have an active household with constant noise, chatter, and other animals, bringing home the little guy who is quivering in the corner may not be the best choice. You’ll need a puppy who isn’t so fearful of the world around him. However, if you live alone or in a quiet environment, the quiet little guy may come out of his shell with you.

The internet and newspapers are filled with puppy listings, but do not buy from a puppy mill. For starters, you’ll likely bring home a puppy prone to health issues. Secondly, by purchasing from a puppy mill, you’re supporting one of the greatest injustices against innocent animals.

Find a Reputable Dog Breeder

A reputable breeder can be found with a little research. While registering with the American Kennel Club is a good first step, it’s important to know that even puppy mill dogs can be registered. The best way to determine if a breeder is knowledgeable and conscientious is by word of mouth. Talk to people. Visit puppy parks and ask questions. Dog owners love to share information, and you’ll likely walk away with more insights than you ever expected.

Once you’ve found a litter that matches your basic requirements, spend time with the puppies as often as possible. Playing with them frequently will help reveal their natural personalities, giving you an idea of how they might behave once you bring them home. The boldest of the litter will likely grow bolder with age. This is good if you have a busy home, but be cautious not to encourage a bully.

Observe how the puppies interact with each other and with you. The puppy who can tolerate roughhousing without backing down is probably a good match for families with children. Fearful puppies may not grow out of their fear, and they might struggle in a chaotic environment. Aggressive puppies are likely to become more aggressive before they can be calmed down.

Often, the puppies make the decision for us. This may sound a little new-age, but it’s true. When interacting with a litter, one puppy might show more interest in you than the others, or he may be the first to reach you and the last to leave your side. Sometimes, a puppy will simply crawl up into your lap and fall asleep. These are all signs of bonding, and while they may not be the final decision-maker, they’re certainly worth considering.

Don’t let yourself be pressured into committing before you’re ready. If you need more time, explain that. Some people put deposits down on puppies even before they are born. Just because the puppies are going fast doesn’t mean you should jump on the bandwagon unless you’re certain it’s true love. After all, puppies are a commitment for at least the next ten years. You won’t regret taking your time to find the right puppy for you.

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First, it’s important to note that if, for some reason, you have put off spaying your dog until she is older, there are still benefits to having her fixed. However, doing so before she goes through her first heat cycle will be most beneficial for your pet. Most dogs go through their first heat cycle between five and six months of age, and that is typically the best time to spay your dog.

Some experts suggest that preventing the first heat cycle can help prevent your dog from contracting certain diseases. While spaying your dog later in life still reduces her chances of developing certain cancers, doing it prior to her first heat cycle offers the most benefit.

Cancers of the female reproductive organs are just as dangerous for your dog as they are for humans. The treatments are painful and expensive, and there are many cases where even the most advanced treatments cannot save your dog’s life.

Having your dog spayed will also help reduce her chances of contracting certain infections and other health issues. Additionally, you will avoid the bleeding that accompanies female heat cycles. Most vets agree that spayed dogs tend to live longer and healthier lives.

Another benefit of having the surgery done while your pet is young is that younger dogs often experience a much easier recovery. They bounce back quicker and more easily than older dogs.

In addition to the health benefits, having your dog altered can also improve her behavior. Dogs that are spayed are generally less aggressive than their intact peers. A spayed dog is less likely to fight with other dogs or show aggression towards people. This doesn’t mean your dog won’t be protective toward you and your family. A dog’s loyalty and instinct to protect you remain unaffected. Loyalty and aggression are not the same thing, and living with a dog that is less aggressive is easier for both the dog and you.

One behavior change you will appreciate is that spayed dogs are less likely to wander away from home. This, of course, is safer for the animal, as the risk of being lost, stolen, or injured is greatly reduced if your pet stays in the yard.

Despite all the compelling reasons to have a dog spayed, some pet parents choose not to do so. Often, this decision is based on myths about spaying.

Here are some of those myths, along with the truth behind them:

You Shouldn’t Spay a Purebred – Some pet owners, even those with no intention of breeding, think they shouldn’t spay their purebred dog. In reality, many of the unwanted dogs euthanized each year are purebreds. The health benefits of spaying are just as important for purebred dogs as they are for mixed breeds.

It Will Change His Personality – If there are any changes in your dog’s behavior, it will likely be that he becomes less aggressive after the surgery. Most pet owners notice no difference whatsoever in their dog’s personality post-surgery.

He Will Gain Weight – Neutering or spaying a dog does not directly cause weight gain. However, your dog may become less active after surgery. This can be managed by increasing his exercise, such as giving him an extra walk or more playtime in the yard.

My Dog Will No Longer Be Protective – A dog’s protective instincts are not linked to whether or not he is altered. He will still be just as loyal and protective of you as before.

The Surgery is Dangerous – While no surgery is completely without risks, neutering or spaying is one of the most common and routine procedures performed by veterinarians. During the surgery, your dog will be closely monitored, much like a human patient during surgery. The benefits of having your dog spayed far outweigh the potential risks.

There are two primary reasons you might choose not to spay your dog. The first is if you plan to show your dog. Show dogs must remain unaltered, so if your dog is a purebred and you intend to enter him into competition, spaying would not be an option.

The second reason would involve breeding. If you’re considering breeding your dog, there are several important factors to weigh. Keep in mind that millions of unwanted dogs are euthanized in shelters each year. Every dog a breeder sells means one less opportunity for these dogs to be adopted. Moreover, breeding dogs isn’t always financially lucrative—most reputable breeders are lucky to break even.

So, to answer the question “What age should you spay a puppy?” the ideal time is prior to their first heat cycle. However, if you didn’t spay your pet by this time, or if you adopted an older dog who hasn’t been spayed, there are still health and behavioral benefits to having the surgery at any age. The bottom line is that you should have this procedure done as soon as possible. Your healthy pet will thank you!

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