Should I spay/ neuter my dog? This is a question many dog lovers are having a hard time answering. Of course, they love their cute pets, but they should also balance it with being a responsible pet owner. To help you address this concern, this article will discuss the pros and cons of spaying and neutering.
What Is Spaying / Neutering?
Spaying and neutering are common methods of sterilisation for animals. Spaying is a de-sexing procedure for female dogs. The female’s ovaries and uterus are removed through surgery. Neutering, also known as castration, is a de-sexing procedure that involves the removal of a male dog’s testicles.
Should I Spay / Neuter My Dog?
Pros of Spaying Your Dog
#1. No Pregnancy
The main advantage of spaying is preventing your dog from getting pregnant. It means avoiding complications associated with pregnancy. Also, spaying relieves the stress of having too many dog litters – the financial burden on dog owners and bigger space requirements that go along with it.
#2. Reduced risk of certain types of cancer
Because the uterus and ovaries will be removed, you don’t have to worry about your dog developing cancer in these organs. Spaying also lessens the risk of breast cancer, especially if your dog undergoes the procedure before reaching two years old.
#3. Your dog will be cleaner and calmer
One of the pros of spaying is preventing your dog from being in heat. By spaying your pet pooch, you don’t have to worry anymore about bloody discharges, which can stain your furniture, carpet, and the whole house. Your pet will also have less desire to find a mate, which means she won’t be wandering off to the neighbourhood or escaping the house anytime soon.
Cons Of Spaying Your Dog
#1. Weight gain
Spayed female dogs can gain weight as a result of changes in metabolism and hormonal structure. This scenario can be avoided by feeding your dog the right kinds of food and ensuring that she has regular exercise.
#2. Risks associated with anaesthesia
Because spaying involves surgery, the procedure has to be done under general anaesthesia. There is a possibility that a dog will have an adverse reaction to the drugs used. Research show that about 20% of dogs who received general anaesthesia experienced complications after surgery.
#3. Hemangiosarcoma and other complications
One of the disadvantages of spaying is the increased risk of having cancer known as hemangiosarcoma. This type of cancer can affect a dog’s spleen and heart. It appears that hormones from the female reproductive system offer some protection against this disease.
Pros Of Dog Neutering
#1. Less aggression and bad behaviour
Testosterone drives sexual desire, aggression, and dominant behavior in male dogs. The main advantage of neutering is that pet owners won’t have to deal with these problems. Your pet is less likely to chase down a neighbour’s female dog to look for a mate. Typically, a neutered dog is more gentle. And, you don’t have to clean the house time and time again. Neutered males are less likely to “mark” their territories.
#2. Prevents certain health problems
Neutering can help prevent your dog from acquiring certain diseases. Non-neutered males are more prone to testicular cancer. Your dog will also love the fact that it has a lower chance of developing prostate enlargement, cysts, and infections.
#3. Stops overpopulation
Overpopulation is a big problem that should be addressed. Many dogs end up in shelters because their owners are not able to provide care, food, and shelter. As a responsible dog lover, you can help solve this issue by having your dog neutered.
Cons Of Dog Neutering
#1. Hypothyroidism and obesity
One of the cons of neutering your dog is the increased risk of hypothyroidism. After undergoing the procedure, hormone levels in the endocrine system may be affected, including the thyroid gland. Without proper intervention, it can lead to dog obesity.
#2. Dog dementia and bone problems
Another disadvantage of neutering is the increased risk of dog dementia. A dog with this disorder will get disoriented and interact differently with humans. For dogs who have undergone neutering at a wrong age, they also carry a higher risk of hip dysplasia, ligament problems, and bone cancer.
#3. Risks associated with general anaesthesia
Like spaying, neutering requires general anaesthesia. About 1 in 5 dogs develop an adverse reaction to it. However, most complications are minor, and only a few cases lead to life-threatening conditions.
Conclusion
There are pros and cons of spaying or neutering dogs. The pros of spaying/ neutering are preventing overpopulation, more behaved pets, and reduced risk of acquiring certain cancers. On the other hand, the cons of spaying/ neutering are hypothyroidism and weight gain, hip dysplasia, and risks associated with anaesthesia.
Is your dog Spay/Neutered? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
