Desexing a dog means removing the reproductive organs so that they cannot reproduce. In a female dog, it is called spaying, and in a male dog it is known as castration, and it is considered a vital part of being a responsible dog owner by preventing unwanted litters. The best age to desex a dog depends on its size and breed, and a health check at your local vet will give you all the information you need, and help you decide what age do you desex your dog.
Small and medium breeds are usually neutered around 6-9 months of age, while in larger breeds, it is often recommended to wait 12-18 months, so their bones and joints fully develop. The benefits of desexing your dog are linked to a longer life span and a better quality of life as it can help reduce the risks of certain cancers, reduce aggressive or undesirable behaviour, and prevent unplanned puppies from ending up in dog shelters.
The Best Age for Desexing a Female Dog
It is always best to consult your vet regarding the best age for your female dog to be neutered, as it can depend on varying factors, including size and breed that will affect the optimal time for spaying. Some vets may recommend that your dog has her first season before the operation, others may prefer to do the operation before her first heat cycle to prevent the risk of an unwanted litter and reduce the risk of any aggression or roaming behaviour forming. Early neutering can also reduce the risk of mammary tumours to almost zero and is easier on a younger dog as the surgery time is usually quicker and recovery and healing much faster.
Early-age desexing is usually practised in most animal shelters and can be performed safely from 8 weeks of age, as long as there is a minimum of 1kg of body weight. Most private veterinary practices perform the surgery around 6-9 months of age, but there is no one-size-fits-all as it will depend on the breed, size and overall health of your dog.
Spaying removes your dog’s ovaries, which means she will never develop ovarian cancer and will reduce the risk of developing mammary tumours. It also prevents your dog from developing pyometra, a potentially fatal uterine infection that usually develops one to two months after a heat cycle, when the hormonal changes in the uterus can cause an ideal environment for bacteria to flourish. The treatment for this serious infection is to remove the ovaries and infected uterus, but the surgery is more complicated than a routine spay as the infection will already have weakened the dog. Desexing female dogs while they are still young is the safest option.
The Best Age for Desexing a Male Dog
Male dogs are usually castrated at around 6 months of age, but again it depends on the size, breed and behaviour of your dog. A consultation with your local vet for dog desexing near you can help determine the best time for your dog’s surgery.
The Importance of Desexing Your Dog
Desexing, or castrating your dog, involves surgically removing both testicles, preventing the production of testosterone. This male hormone drives sex-related behaviours such as roaming in search of a female in heat. A male dog following his instincts may stray far from home, increasing the risk of getting lost, being injured in fights, or being hit by a car. Desexing not only helps prevent these risks but also reduces behaviours like urine marking and aggression. Additionally, it eliminates the possibility of testicular cancer and significantly reduces the risk of other tumours and prostate-related issues.
Chemical Castration: A Non-Surgical Alternative
For pet owners seeking an alternative to surgical desexing, chemical castration is an option. This temporary treatment involves the use of a hormone-based implant that suppresses testosterone production without surgery. It provides a reversible way to manage sex-driven behaviours such as roaming, mounting, and urine marking while also helping to reduce the risk of certain testosterone-related health concerns.
Chemical castration can be particularly useful for owners who are unsure about permanent desexing or wish to trial the effects before making a long-term decision. It may also be beneficial for dogs that are not suitable candidates for surgery due to health concerns. The effects gradually wear off over time, allowing pet owners flexibility in their approach to desexing.
If you have any questions about desexing—whether surgical or chemical—our team at Vets of Geelong, is here to provide guidance and help you make the best decision for your furry friend. Book a consultation today to discuss the best timing for your dog’s surgery.
