What does neutering mean?

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

Neutering is done under a general anaesthetic, meaning your dog will be fast asleep and won’t feel any pain. In males, the testicles are removed, and in females, the ovaries and uterus are removed. For most dogs, neutering is straightforward, and complications are very uncommon.

Why do vets recommend neutering?

Neutering offers many benefits for dogs and their owners, including:

• Population control

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

• Behavioural considerations

  • May help reduce certain behaviours, like roaming, urine marking and humping.

  • However, it’s not a solution for all behavioural problems!

• Health benefits

  • 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).

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

How neutering may affect behaviour in dogs

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 even make some behaviours worse, such as increasing nervousness. It’s important to have a thorough discussion with your vet before considering neutering if your dog has specific behaviour problems.

Neutering mainly affects hormone-driven behaviours, such as territorial urine marking or increased attention-seeking when females are in season. It doesn’t change learned behaviours or your dog’s underlying personality. It won’t resolve issues like anxiety, fear-based aggression, excessive barking, or problems linked to poor training. These types of behaviours usually need professional behavioural support and plenty of patience and consistency from owners.

On the plus side, it’s a common myth that neutering changes a dog’s personality. Your dog will still be the same individual — neutering does not alter who they are, only some hormone-related behaviours.

When is the right time to neuter a dog?

The timing of neutering your dog is really important. Your vet will help you decide the best time based on your dog’s breed, size, and overall health. There is no one-size-fits-all answer, which is why this discussion is so important.

• Age: In the past, dogs were often neutered around 6 months old. More recent research suggests that the ideal timing can vary widely, ranging from six months to two years or more, depending on the individual dog.

• Breed size: It’s often recommended to neuter toy and small breeds earlier, around 6-9 months. Large and giant breeds may benefit from waiting until 12-24 months to reduce the risk of joint problems later in life.

• Individual health factors: Earlier neutering may be advised for certain medical conditions, such as cryptorchidism (undescended testicles). In female dogs (particularly larger breeds), spaying very early can increase the risk of urinary incontinence. Waiting until around 7–18 months old may help reduce 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 in dogs

1. Preparation: Your dog will receive a sedative to help them relax. This is followed by a general anaesthetic so they 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. Some practices also offer keyhole (laparoscopic) spaying, which involves removing only 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 until they are ready to go home. Most dogs can return home the same day.

4. Home care: You'll be given pain relief and a buster collar or medical suit to take home. Your dog will need strict rest for around 10 days while the wound heals. Make sure to follow your vet's instructions, as allowing your dog to jump around or lick their wound can lead to infection and wound breakdown.

Common dog neutering Q&As

Q: Will my puppy gain weight after neutering?
A: Dogs can be more prone to weight gain after neutering due to changes in metabolism and appetite, but neutering does not automatically cause weight gain. Weight gain happens when calorie intake is higher than what your dog burns off. This may be due to slightly reduced energy needs after the procedure and even reduced activity levels. You can prevent this by continuing regular exercise, feeding a balanced diet, and monitoring portion sizes carefully. If you're unsure about your dog's ideal daily food amount, ask your vet—they can help you work it out based on your dog's size, age, 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 dog?
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) and stitch reactions or wound breakdown. Wound problems are usually linked to aftercare, such as letting your dog lick the wound or excessive movement.

Q: Should I let my dog have a season or litter before neutering?
A: There is no proven health benefit of allowing a dog to have a season or a litter before neutering. Actually, pregnancy and nursing carry their own risks, including complications that can be costly and, in some cases, life-threatening. 

Q: Are there any downsides to neutering?
A: Neutering has potential risks and may not be suitable for every dog. Factors such as breed, size, age, and existing health or behavioural issues all play a role. It’s important to discuss all the benefits and risks for your individual dog.

Join us next month for a vet-written blog focused on parasite control in puppies, helping you understand the risks and how to protect your puppy from common parasites.