Did you know that spaying and neutering have health benefits for your pet?
If you're the proud owner of a female puppy, you'll be interested to hear that spaying can reduce her chances of developing breast cancer, uterine cancer and ovarian cancer. It also lessens the likelihood of uterine infection. All that, plus you'll avoid the risks associated with an unplanned pregnancy.
If you have a male puppy, you should know that neutering will prevent testicular tumors and may prevent prostate problems. It also reduces the possibility of perianal tumors and hernias.
Timing
Some vets prefer to spaying female dogs before their first heat cycle, but others don't. For male dogs, the timing is less specific, so it's best to get your vet's recommendations.
The benefits to you
The obvious benefit of you and your family having your puppy spayed or neutered is that you'll never have to deal with unplanned litters. But there are other advantages too. Males neutered early in life are less aggressive, less distracted by females in heat, less likely to mark their territory with urine and less likely to mount the furniture or your leg.
Spaying a female puppy will stop stray males from camping in your garden and decrease her desire to roam and breed.
The benefits to society
Tragically, millions of dogs are euthanized in this country every year. Most of them are the result of accidental breeding by free-roaming, un-neutered dogs. By neutering your puppy, you will know that you won't be adding to this problem.
Tasty Tips
Worries you may have about spaying and neutering
Despite all the strong evidence in favor of spaying and neutering, you may have some concerns. Let's, tackle a few common ones.
Is the surgery safe?
Spaying and neutering are straightforward operations, and ones that your vet will have performed dozens of times before. It's natural to feel nervous, but you can also feel confident that you are doing the best thing for your puppy.
The procedure is straightforward when you are neutering a male (removing the testes). A female spay (removing the ovaries and uterus), is considered major surgery, but is a routine procedure and the risk is minimal.
Will my puppy gain weight?
There's absolutely no need for a neutered puppy to gain weight. Just remember to adjust how much you feed him according to his activity level. You may also consider switching to a lower calorie food such as Hill's Science Diet® Light dog food when he reaches one year old.
Will my puppy's personality change?
Maybe, but only for the better. A neutered male puppy may be less aggressive and less likely to wander.
What else should I know?
Your pet will be required to have a general anesthetic for this procedure, so your vet will ask you not to give your puppy anything to eat or drink for twelve hours before the operation.
You'll probably be able to bring your puppy home on the same day, although he may have to stay a little longer if he's very sleepy.
To discuss these concerns further, or if you have any additional worries, it is best to schedule an appointment with your vet.
Related products
Hill's Science Diet Adult No Corn, Wheat, Soy Savory Stew with Beef & Zucchini dog food
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Large Breed
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Large Breed dry dog food is gentle on stomachs while nourishing skin & promoting a lustrous coat. In a delicious large bite size for large breed dogs.
Hill's Science Diet Adult Large Breed No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe dog food
Supports healthy joints, immune system, digestion, lean muscle & beautiful coat
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight & Joint Support Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food
This weight management and mobility support dog food was created with Hill’s unique understanding of the biology of overweight dogs.
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Small & Mini Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
For the unique nutritional needs of mature Small & Mini dogs
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Digestion Small & Mini Chicken & Vegetables Entrée Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Perfect Digestion Chicken, Whole Oats & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome for dogs age 7+
Hill's Science Diet Adult Small & Mini Savory Stew with Beef & Vegetables Dog Food
A delicious complement to the nutrition of Science Diet Small Paws dry dog food
Hill's Science Diet Adult Turkey & Barley Dog Food
Turkey & Barley recipe with precisely balanced nutrition to keep adult dogs active and healthy
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Digestion Small & Mini Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Hill's Science Diet Adult Small Bites Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
Supports lean muscle, for dogs who prefer smaller kibble
Hill's Science Diet Adult Beef & Barley Entrée Dog Food
Beef & Barley recipe with precisely balanced nutrition to keep adult dogs active and healthy
Hill's Science Diet Adult Chicken & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Supports lean muscle and beautiful coat for adult dogs
Hill's Science Diet Adult 6+ Large Breed No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe dog food
Supports energy & beautiful coat. Helps keep immune system, joints, heart & kidneys healthy
Hill's Science Diet Adult Chicken & Barley Entrée Dog Food
Chicken & Barley recipe with precisely balanced nutrition to keep adult dogs active and healthy
Hill's Science Diet Adult Oral Care Small & Mini Chicken, Rice & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Clinically proven kibble technology to reduce plaque & tartar build-up, specially designed for small & mini dogs
Hill's Science Diet Adult Light Small Bites Chicken Meal & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Fewer calories for less active dogs, who prefer smaller kibble
Hill's Science Diet Adult Small Bites No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe dog food
Supports healthy immune system, digestion, lean muscle & beautiful coat
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Savory Stew with Chicken & Vegetables
Chicken & Vegetables recipe with great taste and precisely balanced nutrition to help your puppy build immunity and strong bones
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Chicken & Barley Entrée Dog Food
Chicken & Barley recipe with precisely balanced nutrition to support mobility and muscle mass for older dogs
Related articles
Weight Loss & Your Dog: Helping to Manage an Ideal Weight
Learn the causes of weight gain in dogs, whether your dog is overweight or obese, and what you can do to help him lose those extra pounds.
Holiday Foods to Avoid Giving Your Dog
Discover what holiday foods to avoid feeding your dog, such as chocolate and nuts, and copy down these homemade holiday dog treat recipes to share with him
Dental Disease in Dogs: Symptoms & Treatment
Discover what dental disease means for dogs, and how you can be treating oral health issues by simply feeding your dog food with proper nutrition.
How to Ride a Bike With Your Dog: Tips for Success
Discover tips for enjoying a bike ride with your dog: How to decide if your dog is a good fit, planning the first ride, items to bring along & safety tips.
Is My Dog Mad at Me?
Learn the truth about dogs and anger, common behaviors that are mistaken as anger, and how to better interpret and respond to times when they act out.
Why Do Dogs Sniff Each Other's Butts?
Why do dogs sniff each other's butts? In short: It's their most effective option for a meet and greet. Learn more about this common dog behavior.
Healthy Dog Treats You Can Make at Home
If you're looking for an easy way to create healthy, homemade dog treats for your dog, try one of these 2 recipes from Hill's Pet Nutrition.
My Dog is Acting Lethargic: Causes & How to Help
Discover reasons why your dog might be acting lethargic or not enjoying play & exercise like he used to, as well as when you should consult his vet.
Dog Jumping: Why They Jump & How to Train Them Not To
Learn common reasons why dogs like to jump on you, interesting facts about breeds that jump the most & highest, and how to stop their jumping behavior.
Choosing the Right Food For Your Small Dog's Life Stages
Hill's Science Diet Small & Toy Breed dog foods are designed to meet the nutritional needs for your small dog at every life stage. Learn more here.
Xylitol and Dogs: A Harmful Combination
The sweetener xylitol can be harmful to dogs. Discover which food products contain xylitol, signs your dog has consumed some, and what to do in that case.
What Painkillers Are Safe for Dogs?
Not sure which pain medicine you can give your dog? Learn which painkillers, such as aspirin or name brand pain meds, are safe for your dog.
Helping Your Puppy Behave While Eating
Learn how to help your puppy learn good behaviors by starting with proper table manners. Follow these helpful feeding tips.
Pyloric Stenosis in Dogs: Causes, Symptoms, & Treatment
Learn details about pyloric stenosis in dogs, including how serious of a health concern it is, common signs, how it's diagnosed and treatment options.
Running with Your Dog: How to Get Started
Learn why running with your dog can be a healthy and enjoyable activity, as well as a great way for you both to stay fit and active.
Dog Park Rules: Do's and Don'ts
Learn about the dog park rules that make for a fun time at the park. Park outings are a fun way to socialize with your dog, but safety comes first.
Tips for Feeding Two Dogs at Once
Learn how to manage feeding two dogs at once, including why separation is important and tips if you have one dog that tries to steal the other dog's food.
Key Tips to Keep Your Puppy Fit & Healthy
Keep your new puppy in great shape by following our healthy puppy tips, including information about exercise, nutrition, and eating habits.
Recognizing and Managing Dog Dementia
Learn the common signs of dog dementia & canine cognitive dysfunction, how it is diagnosed and possible treatments that can be taken to manage the disease.
Heart Disease and Conditions in Dogs: Causes & Facts
Learn what heart disease and heart conditions are for dogs, their causes, how to spot the symptoms, and what to do if you suspect it in your dog.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.