Why should I get my dog fixed?

If you have a new puppy, you might be wondering why you should get them spayed or neutered, especially if your dog will be on a leash during walks and confined to your home and garden.

In fact, there are many reasons to have your dog fixed. These include significant health, behavioral, and even financial benefits!

Benefits of Spayed Female Dogs

Across the United States, animal shelters are overflowing with unwanted dogs. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) estimates that 3.3 million dogs enter shelters annually.

Health Benefits of Spaying Your Dog

Spaying your female dog before her first heat can help prevent uterine infections and breast tumors.

Financial Benefits of Spaying Your Dog

Preventing the birth of unwanted puppies is suitable for your wallet. Spaying does cost money. But the cost is low compared to the expense of caring for a pregnant dog, calling a vet for the birth of the puppies, and caring for the newborns.

Deciding Not To Spay Your Female Dog

Female dogs who have not been spayed go through a reproductive stage known as 'heat' approximately twice a year. For approximately 18 days, male dogs will be drawn to your female. This can lead to unwanted male dogs visiting your yard, potentially resulting in unwanted puppies.

Benefits of Neutered Male Dogs

As with spaying female dogs, neutering your male dog helps reduce the population of unwanted dogs in the United States.

Health Benefits of Neutering Your Dog

When you neuter your dog, you reduce their risk of developing testicular cancer as well as the risk of serious prostate diseases. Neutering your dog also reduces his risk of developing perineal tumors and hernias.

Behavioral Benefits of Neutering Your Dog

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

Deciding Not To Neuter Your Male Dog

Many undesirable behaviors are typical of male dogs that have not been neutered. These include heightened territorial behavior, being overprotective of people and toys, roaming (seeking female dogs), and aggression towards other dogs.

When to Get Your Dog Spayed or Neutered

The best age to have your dog neutered or your female dog spayed depends on the breed, size, and overall health. Veterinarians generally recommend that dogs be fixed between the ages of six and nine months. Some large-breed dogs may benefit from waiting until they are a little older, between 12 and 18 months, to ensure proper development.

Puppies can be spayed or neutered as early as eight weeks old, provided they are healthy and weigh at least two pounds. Early spaying and neutering can prevent unwanted behaviors and health issues before they start. Always consult your veterinarian to determine the best time for your pet.

What happens if I don't fix my dog?

Choosing not to fix your dog involves some considerations and potential challenges. Unfixed dogs are more likely to display aggressive and territorial behavior. Male dogs may mark their territory with urine and become more prone to wandering, increasing the risk of an accident or becoming lost. Female dogs who are not spayed will go into heat about twice a year. This can result in unwanted attention from male dogs and the possibility of unplanned litters.

Preparing for Surgery

Preparing for the surgery is essential if you decide to get your dog neutered or your female dog spayed. Ensure your dog is in good health and up-to-date on vaccinations. Follow your veterinarian's pre-surgery instructions, which may include fasting. Post-surgery, provide a quiet and comfortable space for your dog to recover and monitor the surgical site for any signs of infection. Your vet will give you detailed aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.