Veterinarians typically recommend that
any dog that is not going to be part of a breeding program be spayed
or neutered. For most dogs, the pros of surgical sterilization
outweigh the cons, but that is not to say that there are no negative
aspects to consider. Pet owners that educate themselves about
these procedures are in the best position to make the correct decision
for their individual pet.
"Dealing with pet overpopulation is vital, but most owners want to do what is best for their individual dog."
Pet Overpopulation
The most common argument that you will
hear in support of spaying and neutering is pet overpopulation.
This is no small problem. Millions of homeless dogs and cats are
euthanized every year in animal shelters throughout North America.
Reducing the number of litters produced is the best way to deal with
this problem. Unneutered male dogs and females in heat will do
anything in their power to gain access to each other. You may
think that you will be able to prevent an unwanted litter if you do
not spay or neuter, but dogs have jumped through screened windows, climbed
security fences and ripped leashes out of their owners' hands for
the opportunity to meet a potential mate.
Making the Decision on a Case by Case Basis
Dealing with pet overpopulation is
vital, but most owners want to do what is best for their individual
dog. Here are some pros and cons of both spaying and neutering
that owners should be aware of.
Spaying
Pros |
Cons |
- Eliminates messy heat cycles
|
- Increased chance of urinary
incontinence
|
- Eliminates the risk of potentially
fatal uterine infections (pyometra)
|
- Possible decrease in life
expectancy
|
- Virtually eliminates the
risk of breast cancer if surgery is performed before heat cycles begin
|
- Increased incidence of cruciate
ligament ruptures
|
- Eliminates risks associated
with the birthing process
|
- Increased tendency towards
weight gain
|
- Reduced roaming and aggression
|
- The possibility of surgical
complications
|
- In many locations, reduced
pet license fees
|
- Cannot enter some types
of dog shows
|
- Reduced sexual "frustration"
|
|
Neutering
Pros |
Cons |
- Eliminates the possibility
of testicular cancer and reduces the risk of some other types of cancer
|
- Increased chance of prostate
cancer
|
- Reduces the risk of some
types of prostate disease (e.g., hyperplasia and infections)
|
- Altered appearance to the
scrotum, although implants are available
|
- Reduced aggression, mounting,
marking and roaming
|
- Increased incidence of cruciate
ligament ruptures
|
- In many locations, reduced
pet license fees
|
- Increased tendency towards
weight gain
|
- Reduced sexual "frustration"
|
- The possibility of surgical
complications
- Cannot enter some types
of dog shows
|
|
|
So, like any medical decision, there
are both pros and cons to spaying and neutering. But dog owners who
understand the potential downsides are in a better position to deal
with them.
The above is provided for information purposes only and should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of any condition.
This information does not cover all possible variables, conditions, reactions, or risks relating to any topic, medication, or product and should not
be considered complete. Certain products or medications may have risks and you should always consult your local veterinarian concerning the treatment of
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