Spaying and neutering are super common surgeries for dogs, and most pet owners hear about them as soon as they get a puppy. These procedures are often recommended to prevent accidental litters and help with certain health issues—but there’s more to it than that.

The truth is, spaying or neutering isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Every dog is different, and factors like their age, breed, and even personality can make a big difference in how these surgeries affect them. That’s why it’s so important to dig a little deeper and figure out what’s really best for your pup

Today, I want to help you do exactly that. In the sections below, I'll help you make an informed decision about spaying or neutering your dog. I’ll cover the benefits, the risks, and the things to consider so you can feel confident about what’s right for your pup.

What Are Spaying And Neutering In Dogs?

Spaying and neutering are just fancy terms for surgeries that prevent your dog from having puppies. Spaying is for females, where the vet removes the ovaries and sometimes the uterus. Neutering is for males, and it involves removing the testicles.

These procedures also lower the levels of certain hormones like testosterone and estrogen, which can affect your dog’s growth, metabolism, and behavior. While that sounds like a lot, it’s why spaying and neutering can have both pros and cons depending on your dog’s unique needs.

Most people think of spay and neuter surgeries as a way to stop pet overpopulation—and they do help with that. But they’re also recommended to reduce certain health risks, like mammary tumors in females or testicular cancer in males.

There are behavioral perks too. For example, neutered males might be less likely to roam the neighborhood or mark every tree on your walk. But while these benefits sound great, it’s important to look at the bigger picture and think about how timing and your dog’s breed might change the equation.

Health Benefits Of Neutering And Spaying Dogs

For Male Dogs

When it comes to neutering male dogs, one big health perk is saying goodbye to the risk of testicular cancer. Since the testicles are removed, this type of cancer simply can’t happen—a small but reassuring benefit.

Neutering can also help reduce the chances of non-cancerous prostate disorders, like an enlarged prostate, which might otherwise make it hard for your dog to pee or poop comfortably.

Another potential bonus? Neutered males are less likely to develop painful perianal fistulas, a condition involving infected sores around the anus. While there’s some debate, there’s also a chance that neutering lowers the risk of diabetes in male dogs, though the evidence isn’t totally clear.

For Female Dogs

For female dogs, spaying offers some pretty significant health benefits, especially when done before they’re 2.5 years old. One of the most important is the huge drop in mammary tumor risk, which is the most common malignant tumor in female dogs. If you spay your dog before her first heat cycle, you can almost eliminate this risk entirely.

Another life-saving benefit is that spaying prevents pyometra, a dangerous and often fatal uterine infection that affects nearly a quarter of intact female dogs.

On top of that, spaying removes the risk of cancers in the uterus, ovaries, and cervix—though these cancers are relatively rare compared to other health issues.

Health Risks Of Spaying And Neutering Dogs

For Male Dogs

While neutering can help with some health problems, it can increase the risk of others. For instance, neutered male dogs are more likely to develop osteosarcoma (bone cancer), especially if the surgery is done before they turn one. This type of cancer is aggressive and more common in larger breeds, making it a big consideration for certain dogs.

Neutering also raises the risk of cardiac hemangiosarcoma, a deadly cancer of the heart. Additionally, neutered males are three times more likely to develop hypothyroidism, a condition that causes weight gain, lethargy, and hair loss.

Obesity is another concern—neutered males have a higher chance of becoming overweight, which can lead to a host of other issues like diabetes and joint problems.

Finally, they’re also at a slightly higher risk for urinary tract cancers and adverse vaccine reactions.

For Female Dogs

Spaying female dogs also comes with its share of risks, particularly if done at a young age. Like neutered males, spayed females face a higher chance of developing osteosarcoma, as well as splenic and cardiac hemangiosarcoma—both of which are aggressive cancers with poor outcomes.

Hypothyroidism is another concern for spayed females, tripling their risk compared to intact dogs. Additionally, spayed females are more prone to obesity, urinary tract infections, and urinary incontinence—a frustrating condition where they may leak urine, especially as they age. Early spaying can also cause orthopedic problems and persistent vaginal issues, such as vaginitis or recessed vulva, which can lead to chronic irritation or infection.

Other Factors That Influence Risks And Benefits

Age and Timing

The timing of spaying or neutering plays a massive role in a dog’s long-term health. For instance, early spay/neuter can delay the closure of growth plates, leading to longer bones and a higher risk of orthopedic problems like hip dysplasia or cruciate ligament tears.

Removing hormones too early can also disrupt a dog’s natural development, increasing the likelihood of obesity, certain cancers, and other hormone-related issues.

On the flip side, waiting until your dog is physically mature—usually around 12-18 months for most breeds—can help reduce these risks. It’s all about striking the right balance between the potential benefits, like reduced reproductive health issues, and the risks associated with hormone loss.

Breed-Specific Considerations

Breed matters a lot when it comes to how spaying or neutering might affect your dog. For example, larger breeds like Rottweilers and Golden Retrievers are already at higher risk for cancers like osteosarcoma, and early spay/neuter increases this risk even more. Similarly, breeds prone to orthopedic problems, such as Labrador Retrievers, may benefit from waiting until their bones are fully developed before undergoing surgery.

Smaller breeds, on the other hand, tend to have fewer issues related to early spay/neuter, but they aren’t entirely exempt from risks like obesity or urinary incontinence. Tailoring the decision to your dog’s breed, age, and overall health is key to minimizing potential downsides.

Other Surgical Risks And Complications

Like any surgery, spaying or neutering comes with short-term risks, although these are generally low. Complications can include infections, excessive bleeding, or adverse reactions to anesthesia. While the mortality rate for these procedures is extremely low—around 0.1%—it’s still crucial to choose a skilled veterinarian who follows best practices to minimize risks.

Most dogs recover quickly after surgery with proper care, but you’ll want to monitor them for signs of discomfort, swelling, or unusual behavior. Following your vet’s post-op instructions can go a long way in ensuring a smooth recovery.

Beyond the immediate risks, the removal of reproductive hormones can have ripple effects on a dog’s overall health. Hormones like estrogen and testosterone play a role in maintaining a healthy metabolism, strong bones, and proper immune function. Without them, dogs may be more prone to weight gain, endocrine disorders, and even cognitive decline as they age.

While these long-term effects don’t impact every dog the same way, they’re an important consideration when deciding if and when to spay or neuter. Exploring alternative options that preserve some hormonal function might be a good middle ground for pet owners concerned about these impacts.

Natural Health And Holistic Considerations For Pet Owners

Deciding whether to spay or neuter your dog isn’t a one-size-fits-all decision. It’s all about balancing the potential benefits, like preventing reproductive cancers or controlling the pet population, against the risks of hormone loss, surgical complications, and long-term health impacts. An open and informed discussion with your holistic vet can help you weigh these factors based on your dog’s breed, age, and lifestyle.

While the traditional six-month mark might work for some dogs, others may benefit from waiting until they’re physically mature or exploring alternative sterilization methods. The key is to make a decision that’s best for your individual dog, not just follow a blanket recommendation.

If you’re hesitant about removing your dog’s reproductive organs, there are alternative options to consider. Procedures like vasectomy for males or ovary-sparing spay for females allow dogs to remain sterile while preserving their hormones. These methods can reduce some of the long-term risks associated with hormone loss, such as orthopedic problems or cognitive decline.

Discuss these alternatives with your vet to determine if they’re a good fit for your dog’s needs. While not as common, these procedures are gaining popularity among pet owners looking for a middle ground between health preservation and sterilization.

FAQ

What is the difference between neutering and spaying? Neutering refers to the surgical removal of reproductive organs in a male animal, while spaying is a procedure specifically for female pets to remove the ovaries and uterus. Both surgeries provide behavioral benefits and support a healthier life for pets by reducing health risks.

What is the difference between spaying and sterilization? Spaying involves removing only the ovaries or both the ovaries and uterus in female animals, while sterilization refers broadly to any procedure preventing reproduction in male and female pets. Both methods contribute to pet's health by minimizing risks like reproductive cancers.

Is spaying only for females? Yes, spaying is exclusively for female pets and involves removing reproductive organs to prevent pregnancy and improve overall health. Male pets undergo a different procedure called neutering to achieve similar health and behavioral benefits.

When should you neuter and spay? Neutered dogs and spayed pets benefit most when the timing aligns with their breed, size, and health needs, typically around physical maturity for healthy dogs. Consulting your vet ensures the best decision for your pet's health and prevents aggressive behavior or other long-term issues.