1. Neutering benefits your dog’s health:
   • In females, it reduces the risk of mammary gland tumours, ovarian and uterine cancers and infection of the uterus (pyometra).
   • In males, it reduces the risk of testicular cancer and decreases the incidence of prostatic disease.

2. Neutering has positive behavioural effects:
   • Females will not have heat cycles so males will not be attracted, which may reduce potential stress or aggression in dogs.
   • Males will have less urge to roam. Certain forms of aggression are reduced as are some unwanted behaviours such as mounting people or objects.

3. Neutering prevents unnecessary breeding and therefore helps to reduce the number of unwanted puppies.

Consult your veterinarian about the best time to neuter your own dog as recommendations may vary depending on individual circumstances, but bear in mind that dogs can get pregnant as young as 6 months of age.

The operation is performed with the dog under general anaesthesia, therefore the dog won’t feel pain during the surgery, and pain-killers will be given by the vet as required. There may be minor discomfort for one to two days after the operation, but it will go away soon afterwards, and your dog’s chances of having a better, healthier and happier life are enhanced significantly.

Try to think of it as a lifetime investment for the benefit of your dog’s health. Unneutered dogs are at much higher risk of contracting more diseases and having cancers related to the reproductive system – which will cost a lot more money in vet’s bills in the long run.

It might, however changes are minimal and minor. Male dogs might be less likely to roam and fight. Females will no longer go into heat.

Some owners may worry that their dog will gain weight after neutering. Giving your dog an appropriate amount of food and providing regular exercise, such as walking your dog and playing with it will help to keep your dog healthy and should prevent it from putting on extra weight. This should be a key part of your dog’s lifestyle whether it is neutered or not.