What does neutering mean?

Neutering is a common procedure in veterinary practice. It’s also known as castration in male dogs and spaying in females. It permanently prevents dogs from reproducing (breeding). Most vet practices carry out neutering surgeries every day.

The procedure is performed under a general anaesthetic, so your Cocker Spaniel will be fast asleep and won’t feel any discomfort. In males, the testicles are removed. In females, the ovaries and uterus are removed. For most Cocker Spaniels, neutering is straightforward, and complications are uncommon.

Why do vets recommend neutering?

Neutering offers multiple benefits for Cocker Spaniels and their owners, including:

• Population control

  • Preventing unplanned litters and reducing the number of unwanted or homeless dogs.

• Behavioural considerations

  • Neutering may help to reduce some hormone-driven behaviours, such as roaming, urine scent-marking and inappropriate sexual behaviour (humping). This can be useful in Cocker Spaniels, who are high-energy and easily distracted.

  • However, it’s important to remember that neutering is not a cure-all for behaviour problems. Any behaviour driven by fear can be made worse by neutering.

• Health benefits

  • In female Cocker Spaniels, spaying prevents pyometra (a serious and potentially life-threatening womb infection) and reduces the risk of mammary tumours, particularly if done before two years of age.

  • In male Cocker Spaniels, neutering prevents testicular tumours and reduces the risk of prostate disease later on in life.

How neutering may affect behaviour in Cocker Spaniels

Neutering can help to address certain behavioural challenges, but it’s not the solution to every problem. It can actually increase nervousness or worsen reactivity. Especially in Cocker Spaniels, who are already sensitive or anxious.

This is particularly relevant in working-line Cocker Spaniels, who are bred to be intensely focused, fast and highly responsive. In dogs that already struggle with fear, anxiety or impulse control, lowering testosterone can sometimes reduce confidence rather than improve behaviour. So it’s essential to discuss any behaviour concerns with your vet (and possibly a behaviourist) before deciding on the right time to neuter your Cocker Spaniel.

It’s a common myth that neutering changes a dog’s personality. But your dog will still be the same (adorable) individual after neutering. The procedure doesn’t change who they are, only some of their hormone-related behaviour.

When is the right time to neuter a Cocker Spaniel?

Timing matters. And there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Your vet can advise you based on your dog’s size, line (working or show), general health and behaviour.

Age
In the past, many dogs were neutered at around six months old. In some cases, it’s now believed best to wait until Cocker Spaniels are emotionally mature - often around 12 months old or more. This is especially true for dogs showing anxiety or reactivity. These issues should be addressed by a qualified behaviourist first.

Breed size and type
Cocker Spaniels are classed as a small-to-medium breed, but working lines often mentally mature later than show lines and demonstrate more intense behaviours. This can influence decisions on when neutering is best performed.

Individual health and behaviour factors
Earlier neutering may be advisable in certain medical circumstances, such as males with undescended testicles. On the other hand, spaying female dogs very early can increase the risk of urinary incontinence, so waiting until around 7–18 months may be safer. Female puppies who suffer from juvenile vaginitis, an inflammation associated with low oestrogen levels, should not be neutered until their tract is mature after their first season.

Reproductive cycle
Female Cocker Spaniels should ideally be spayed around three months after a season. This reduces the risk of excessive bleeding during surgery.

The neutering procedure in dogs

Preparation
The vet gives your dog a sedative to help them relax, followed by a general anaesthetic to ensure they sleep comfortably and pain-free throughout the procedure.

Surgery

• Male dogs:  The vet makes a small cut close to the scrotum and removes both testicles.

• Female dogs: Through a surgical incision in your dog’s tummy, the vet removes the ovaries and usually the uterus. Some vet practices offer laparoscopic (keyhole) spaying, which involves removing just the ovaries.

Recovery
The wound is closed with stitches. Often these are buried beneath the skin, so you won’t see them. Your dog will receive pain relief and be monitored until they are ready to go home. Most go home the same day.

Home care
Your dog will come home with pain relief and a buster collar or medical suit. Cocker Spaniels can be energetic and excitable, so you’ll need to enforce strict rest for around 10 days. That means no jumping, playing or zoomies. Licking the wound needs to be prevented as it can lead to infection or wound breakdown. Follow your vet’s aftercare instructions carefully for the best results.

Common Neutering Q&As for Cocker Spaniels

Q: Will my Cocker Spaniel gain weight after neutering?
A: Neutering doesn’t automatically cause weight gain. Weight gain happens when calorie intake exceeds calories burned. Neutering may alter metabolism, leading to a slight reduction in your dog’s calorie requirements. Careful portion control, regular exercise and limiting treats help prevent weight gain. Talk to your vet for advice.

Q: Will neutering change my Cocker Spaniel’s personality?
A: No. Neutering won’t change who your dog is. They’ll still be energetic, affectionate and full of that legendary Cocker enthusiasm for life. It only affects some hormone-driven behaviours.

Q: What are the risks of neutering a Cocker Spaniel?
A: Neutering is very common and generally carries little risk. As with any surgery, there are small risks associated with anaesthesia and wound healing. Wound problems are most often related to aftercare challenges, such as too much activity or licking the wound.

Q: Should my Cocker Spaniel have a litter before neutering?
A: There’s no evidence to suggest any health benefits from having a litter before neutering. Pregnancy and nursing carry their own risks and should not be undertaken without careful consideration.

Q: Are there any downsides to neutering Cocker Spaniels?
A: Possibly. Behavioural sensitivity, weight management challenges and the dog’s individual temperament all need to be considered. Neutering decisions should be tailored to the individual dog, not the calendar.

Join us next month for a vet-written blog on parasite control in Cocker Spaniel puppies, offering expert guidance to help keep this active, affectionate breed protected.