Should you castrate/neuter your dog?

Thinking of neutering your dog? There are both advantages and disadvantages to castration. This article should help you make the decision that suits you and your dog best. 

Advantages of neutering

If your dog is not a potential breeding or show dog, there are benefits to neutering. For example, the risk of mammary tumours in females is reduced if the female is castrated early. Similarly, the risk of prostate problems can be reduced in male dogs.  

If you have a female that has trouble with their menstrual cycle, this can be helped if the female is spayed. For male dogs that refuse to eat or howl when the females around are in heat, there is also a chance that the dog will reduce these behaviours after a castration. 

Disadvantages and risks

Castration is a procedure that requires the dog to be put to sleep - this always involves a small risk. A male that is castrated before puberty never develops the muscle mass of an adult, uncastrated dog. A castration can also lead to urinary incontinence. In some cases, a change in the fur quality can also occur in neutered dogs.

In several studies, it is believed that the metabolism at rest is lower than in intact animals, which means that the neutered dogs have a lower energy requirement. 

Behavioural problems cannot be neutered

Temperament or behavioural issue prevention is often the reason an owner wants to perform a castration. In the vast majority of cases, the male becomes calmer and the sex drive largely disappears after castration. However, for example, territory marking and aggressiveness can remain even after castration if it was done after the dog developed the behaviour.

If you have an insecure or fearful dog, it is good to discuss with a veterinarian before making the decision. 

If you have an Agria Pet Insurance policy, you can get veterinary advice at any time through the Agria app.