Why it is Important to Get Your Dog Neutered

dog neuter in Boulder, CO
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Why it is Important to Get Your Dog Neutered

Getting your male dog neutered (castrated) is an important decision and something that most dog owners should consider for their dogs. The process has several benefits for dogs and has the potential to simplify the lives of many dog owners.

Aside from preventing unplanned litters, neutering your male dog may have various health benefits for canines. Additionally, the procedure can assist in addressing a few behavioral problems commonly seen in dogs.

What are the Benefits of Neutering Your Male Puppy or Dog

Neutering male dogs can offer four significant advantages: reducing the risk of unplanned pregnancies, lowering the likelihood of certain cancers, minimizing spraying, and addressing some behavioral issues associated with unneutered dogs.

There Will be No Accidental Litters

If your male dog is neutered and has no testicles, there is no possibility of them impregnating an unspayed female dog. Although unplanned litters are typically less of a concern for owners of male dogs than female dogs, it can certainly still cause issues. Nobody wants to receive an angry call from their neighbor because your unneutered dog impregnated their unspayed female dog.

If you get your dog neutered, you’ll never need to worry about this problem.

Your Dog is at Lower Risk for Cancer

Neutering your dog at a young age significantly reduces the risk of certain types of cancer. Specifically, dogs are at a much lower risk of developing prostate cancer.

The risk of testicular cancer is eliminated for dogs that have been neutered. This is because neutering involves removing the testicles completely. Meanwhile, many studies have suggested that a dog’s risk of prostate cancer is greatly reduced once they have been neutered.  It is best to have the dog neutered at a younger age to significantly reduce the chance of prostate cancer. 

Your Dog Will Spray Less

Unneutered male dogs often have a tendency to spray urine on objects, both indoors and outdoors, as a way of marking their territory and attracting potential mates. Neutering can significantly reduce or entirely eliminate this behavior.

Your Dog Will Have Fewer Behavioral Problems

Aside from addressing spraying, neutering can also aid in resolving other behavioral problems. Neutering male dogs can help with aggression and escaping issues. Unneutered/intact male dogs often try to flee their homes and yards to search for female dogs to mate with, particularly if there are intact female dogs nearby or within smelling distance.

Moreover, intact male dogs tend to have more aggression issues than neutered dogs due to the increased levels of testosterone in their bodies. Higher testosterone levels can cause increased aggression towards both humans and other dogs.

dog neuter in Boulder, CO

What Could Happen if You Don’t Neuter Your Dog?

If you do not neuter your dog, the following could occur:

  • Unplanned litters
  • Testicular cancer
  • Increased risk of prostate cancer
  • Increase likelihood of spraying and other behavioral issues

What is the Best Age to Neuter a Dog?

Most veterinarians recommend that you neuter a dog between six and nine months of age. In some cases, owners prefer to wait until a dog is fully grown, between one year and two years to neuter them. This allows the dog to fully develop and mature before being neutered, which can positively impact growth and overall health in some breeds (especially giant breed dogs). If you are unsure of what age you should neuter your dog, consulting with your vet will help.

Always Consult with Your Vet Before Planning to Neuter Your Dog

Like with any other serious medical procedure, you should always consult with your vet before having your dog neutered. This way you can address any concerns or questions that you may have about neutering your dog before the procedure is even scheduled. Additionally, your vet can consult with you about any potential side effects or concerns with neutering that apply to your dog.

If you are looking to neuter your dog in the Boulder, CO region, the expert vets at Boulder Veterinary Hospital is here to help! Give us a call today at (303) 442-6262, or Request an Appointment online.

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