6 Benefits of Dog Neutering

If you’re a dog owner, you’re likely already aware that it’s important to have your pet neutered. However, some dog owners may not realize just how necessary neutering is for a male dog, even if they do recognize the necessity of spaying a female dog.

If you’re trying to decide whether neutering your dog is worth it, check out the information below to find out more. This quick list will introduce you to many of the most important benefits of dog neutering, which may make the decision easier for you.

1. Reduces Unwanted Litters

The first and most important benefit of neutering your dog is the reduction of unwanted litters of puppies. Dogs are severely overpopulated around the world, and you can do your part to help cut down on this problem by preventing your pets from breeding.

Remember, too, that if your dog is responsible for an unwanted litter, you may have to pay the vet bills for the mother dog and puppies in some situations, too. Therefore, neutering not only helps control the overpopulation of pets, but also cuts down on your potential vet expenses.

2. Reduces the Risk of Cancer

Dogs who are neutered are at a significantly lower risk of cancer than those who are left intact. Neutered dogs are unable to contract testicular cancer at all, and they are also less likely to suffer from prostate cancer. Other types of cancers may be limited by neutering, too.

Talk to your veterinarian for more information if you’re considering neutering your dog for the sake of cancer prevention. Your vet can give you specifics about whether this is the best course of action for your pet based on his health, wellness, and breed history as well.

3. Reduces Aggression

Neutered male dogs are typically less aggressive than those that are left intact. Since your neutered dog will not have to deal with his hormones so much and will not be willing to fight for the chance to mate with females, he will be much more laid-back and easygoing than intact dog might be.

Keep in mind, however, that neutering may not always cause a dog to become less aggressive. In some instances, dogs may be aggressive after neutering and may need training to combat this issue as well.

4. Reduces Escaping Behaviors

Intact male dogs can smell a female dog in heat from a long distance away. Because of this, they may become inclined to try to escape any time they smell a female in their general area. Even if you don’t think your dog will want to escape—or you don’t think he can—you may be surprised at just how easily a dog can get out of a home or yard when he wants to mate.

Do not assume your dog will never get away from you. Instead, have him neutered so he will no longer have the drive to escape and mate in the first place.

5. Reduces the Risk of Fighting

Male dogs who are left intact want to mate with intact female dogs who come into their environment. If multiple male dogs are interested in mating with the same female dog, this can lead to fighting between the males for dominance. And if your dog is involved in this type of fighting, he may become seriously injured by other male dogs as a result.

You can significantly reduce the risk of your dog getting into fights with others by having him neutered. A neutered dog is not a threat to those that are intact when it comes to mating, so your dog will be safer this way.

6. Reduces the Risk of Disease

When your dog is less interested in roaming and interacting with stray dogs who might come into his life, he is also less likely to be with dogs who may have communicable diseases.

Therefore, neutering helps keep your dog safely at home and away from strays who may be sick. Although this is a secondary benefit of neutering, it is still an important feature to keep in mind when choosing whether neutering is right for your pet.

Talk with Your Heart + Paw Team about Dog Neutering

In the end, it is up to you to choose whether you want to neuter your pet. However, keep in mind that neutering is required by some breeders and may be required if you rent your home, too. Additionally, there are many compelling reasons outlined in the article above that can help you understand how important neutering can truly be.

If you have any further questions or concerns, talk to your Heart + Paw vet for more information. Your vet can also let you know if your dog is not a good candidate for neutering for any reason. Book an appointment at any of our locations by using the online form!