What does neutering mean?

Neutering is a common veterinary procedure, also called castration in male dogs and spaying in females. It permanently prevents dogs from reproducing (breeding). Most vet practices will do neutering surgeries every day. 

The procedure is performed under general anaesthetic, so your dog will be asleep and pain-free. In males, the testicles are removed. In females, either the ovaries and uterus are removed with traditional surgery, or only the ovaries with keyhole surgery. Neutering is usually straightforward, and complications are uncommon. French Bulldogs do have a slightly higher risk, but your vet will take measures to minimise this.

Why do vets recommend neutering for French Bulldogs?

Neutering can offer several benefits for Frenchies and their owners, including:

• Preventing unplanned litters. This is especially important in Bulldog breeds, as they have an increased risk of serious birthing issues, and emergency C-sections are often required. 

• Possibly reducing certain unwelcome behaviours, like roaming, urine marking and humping. However, the way neutering affects behaviour is complicated. Always have a discussion with your vet about any behavioural issues before deciding on neutering.

• In females, spaying prevents pyometras (a serious and potentially life-threatening womb infection). It also reduces the risk of mammary tumours (especially if done before the dog reaches 2 years old).

• False pregnancies are common in Frenchies and tend to get worse over time. Neutering is often recommended to prevent complications.

• In males, neutering prevents testicular tumours and reduces the risk of prostate disease.

How neutering may affect behaviour in French Bulldogs

While neutering can be helpful in some cases, it’s important to understand that it is not a solution for all behaviour problems. In some cases, neutering may make some behaviours worse. It’s important to have a discussion with your vet before considering neutering if your dog has behaviour problems.

Neutering mainly influences hormone-driven behaviours, such as mounting, urine marking, or increased restlessness around females in season. Neutering will not resolve—and in some cases may exacerbate—issues such as anxiety, excessive vocalisation, or behaviours stemming from inadequate training or socialisation. These concerns require professional behavioural intervention, along with time, consistency, and patience.

It’s a common myth that neutering changes your Frenchies personality. They will still be the same individual — neutering does not alter who they are, only some hormone-related behaviours. Frenchies will still be just as silly and joyful after neutering, just with fewer awkward moments involving legs and pillows.

When is the right time to neuter a French Bulldog?

The timing of neutering matters. Your vet will help you decide the best time for your dog. There is no one-size-fits-all answer, which is why having a discussion is so important. In French Bulldogs, a few key factors to consider include:

• Skeletal maturity: Some recent studies have found an increased risk of intervertebral disc disease (a serious condition of the spine) in Frenchies that were neutered at an early age. You may be advised to wait until your puppy’s bones are fully developed, which in Frenchies is around 12 months old.

• Sexual maturity: In female dogs of large breeds, where incontinence is more common, there may be some benefit in delaying neutering until they are sexually mature. However, this may increase the risk of mammary masses later in life, so it may not be the right option for breeds at low risk for incontinence, like Frenchies.

• Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS): This problem is common in Frenchies and increases the risks of anaesthesia. Your vet may recommend addressing this problem first or at the same time as neutering, to help reduce risks.

• Cryptorchidism (undescended testicles): This is another common problem in Frenchies. Dogs with undescended testicles may develop problems at an early age, often under two years. It is usually recommended that they are neutered well before that time to avoid this risk.

• Reproductive cycle: Females should wait until 3 months after they’ve had a season to reduce the risk of severe bleeding during the operation.
  

The neutering procedure

1. Preparation: Your dog will receive a sedative to help them relax. A general anaesthetic is administered next, allowing them to sleep comfortably and pain-free throughout the procedure.

2. Surgery:

   • Male dogs: The vet makes a small wound near the scrotum and removes both testicles.

   • Female dogs: The vet makes a wound in the tummy, starting near the umbilicus, to remove the ovaries and usually the uterus. Keyhole (laparoscopic) spaying involves opening two small holes in the middle of the tummy and inserting special equipment through them to remove the ovaries.

3. Recovery: The wound is closed with stitches, which are often buried beneath the skin so you won’t see them. Your dog will receive pain relief and be closely monitored during recovery until they are ready to go home (usually the same day). Frenchies may also receive medication to prevent swelling in their airways, and may need to be monitored for a bit longer, depending on how they are recovering.

4. Home care: Your dog will be sent home with pain relief and either a buster collar or a medical suit. Strict rest is necessary for around 10 days while the wound heals. It’s important to follow your vet’s instructions, as licking the wound or excessive activity can lead to infection or wound breakdown. French Bulldogs may also be prescribed medication for acid reflux, which is more common in this breed around the time of anaesthesia.

Common neutering Q&As for French Bulldog owners

Q: Will my Frenchie gain weight after neutering?
A: French Bulldogs may be more prone to weight gain after neutering due to changes in metabolism and appetite, but neutering itself does not cause weight gain. Weight gain occurs when calorie intake exceeds energy use, often due to slightly reduced energy needs or activity levels. This can be prevented with regular exercise, appropriate portion control, and a balanced diet. If you’re unsure how much to feed, your vet can help calculate the right amount based on your dog’s age, size, and activity level.

Q: Will neutering change my dog’s personality?
A: No.  It won’t change your dog's personality or make them any less playful or enthusiastic. Neutering only affects hormone-driven behaviour, such as urine marking.

Q: What are the risks of neutering a French Bulldog?
A: Neutering is one of the most common operations in vet practices. It generally has very low risks, though, like any surgery, complications can occur. Potential risks include anaesthetic complications (which are uncommon), breathing problems when the dog is waking up from anaesthesia, and post-surgery vomiting or acid reflux. Your vet will monitor your Frenchie carefully to address any complications.

Q: Should I let my dog have a litter before neutering?
A: There is no proven health benefit of allowing a dog to have a litter before neutering. In fact, pregnancy and birthing have a high risk of complications in Frenchies, often requiring emergency surgery. 

Q: Are there any downsides to neutering?
A: Neutering has potential risks and may not be suitable for every dog. Factors such as age and existing health or behavioural issues affect this decision. It’s important to discuss all the benefits and risks for your individual dog with your vet, and consult a behaviourist if needed to make sure decisions are well-informed.

Join us next month for a vet-written blog on parasite control in French Bulldog puppies, with advice tailored to their health needs and lifestyle.