Most dog lovers advocate for spaying or neutering pets as early as possible, and for owners not planning to breed, this is often sound advice. However, spaying and neutering are surgical procedures with risks, and the decision should be informed by medical facts. There are significant pros and cons to spaying and neutering that warrant careful consideration.
According to the American College of Theriogenologists, keeping a dog intact offers health benefits tied to hormones like estrogen and testosterone, which are crucial for full growth. Spaying or neutering before growth plates close (around two years for most dogs) increases risks for various health problems, including cancers like hemangiosarcoma, osteosarcoma, transitional cell carcinoma, and prostatic adenocarcinoma. Altered pets are also more prone to obesity due to a reduced metabolic rate, and spayed females face higher risks of urinary incontinence, though this is less likely if spaying occurs after the first heat cycle. Intact dogs have lower rates of urinary tract infections, autoimmune thyroiditis, hypothyroidism, diabetes mellitus, cranial cruciate ruptures, and possibly hip dysplasia if spayed or neutered after five months (or after a female’s first season).
In essence, sexual hormones play a vital role in a dog’s development. Early spaying or neutering removes these hormones, potentially increasing the risk of serious health issues later in life.
Benefits and Considerations of Spaying and Neutering
Spaying and neutering do offer benefits. Removing reproductive organs eliminates the risk of mammary, testicular, and ovarian tumors, which are hormone-driven. Spaying prevents pyometra in female dogs, a dangerous uterine infection, and neutering male dogs reduces the risk of prostatitis, perineal and inguinal hernias, and perineal adenoma.
However, spaying or neutering shouldn’t be an automatic decision. Many shelters, rescues, veterinarians, and breeders promote early spaying or neutering at 8–12 weeks for convenience and cost, but this may not prioritize the dog’s health. Early alteration can lead to longer limbs and lighter bone structure, increasing injury risk, especially for dogs involved in canine sports. The Canine Health Foundation notes that dogs altered before five months often exhibit behavioral issues, with spayed females showing more fearfulness and neutered males displaying increased aggression.
Spaying or neutering is often responsible, significantly reducing the number of euthanized animals from 20 million annually in the 1960s to 3–4 million today through education and spay/neuter programs. For non-breeding pet owners, it simplifies management by preventing unwanted litters. Yet, convenience shouldn’t drive major health decisions. Spay/neuter surgery has lifelong health consequences.
Consider your dog’s breed and health predispositions before deciding. Breeds prone to specific cancers or hip dysplasia may face heightened risks with early alteration. For most pet owners, spaying or neutering after five months (or after a female’s first heat) balances health benefits and risks, provided breeding isn’t planned. Research thoroughly and weigh the health implications to make an informed choice for your dog’s well-being.
