Our Johns Creek veterinary team will often be asked by new dog owners about whether nor not they should have their dogs spayed or neutered. Here, we share the reasons you should consider getting your puppy fixed.
Should you get your dog fixed?
According to the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), approximately 3.3 million dogs enter shelters every year across the USA.
Neutering or spaying your dog is the number one way for you to help reduce the overall number of unplanned puppies in the country each year while also improving your own dog's behavior and preventing the development of serious health conditions later in life.
What is the difference between spaying and neutering?
To start, it's important that you understand what is actually meant by "fixing" your dog. This is the general term used for both spaying and neutering your dog.
Spaying Female Dogs
Spaying a dog involves the removal of a female dog's reproductive organs with either an ovariohysterectomy (both uterus and ovaries are removed) or an ovariectomy (only the ovaries are removed) procedure. After your female dog has been spayed, she won't be able to have puppies.
Neutering Male Dogs
For male dogs, neutering, or castration, involves the removal of both testicles and their associated structures. A neutered dog is unable to reproduce.
Are there any benefits to having my dog spayed or neutered?
Besides reducing the risk of unwanted puppies, there are also a number of other benefits to neutering or spaying your dogs.
Neutered Dog
Neutering your male dog will protect them from developing testicular cancer and will also curb unwanted behaviors like straying, humping, or aggression.
Spayed Dog
Getting your female dog spayed can help to prevent serious health problems such as pyometra, (a potentially life-threatening uterine infection), and mammary cancer.
When should I get my dog fixed?
There are a wide variety of factors that may influence the timing of these reproductive procedures. That being said, spaying and neutering can be done on puppies as young as a few months old. Traditionally, puppies were fixed when they were between 4 - 6 months old.
Speak to your vet in order to determine the best age to spay or neuter your dog.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.