Neutering of Dogs

In the past, Veterinarians in Australia have generally advised that all dogs are neutered (in males this is Castration, in Females this is Spaying) at around 6 months.

New research has given us new information that, in some breeds, can challenge this view. It is important to note that the research (“Assisting Decision-making on age of neutering for 35 Breeds of dogs: Associated Joint Disorders, Cancers and Urinary Incontinence” by Hart, Hart, Thigpen and Willits. July 2020 to google the study) is based on research from USA, within a University setting with small numbers of animals (less than 500 cases of many of the breeds).

There are many benefits to neutering

Neutered dogs are statistically less likely to escape and be involved in car accidents.
Dogs (particularly male dogs) are generally less aggressive and calmer after neutering.
Male dogs neutered early tend not to develop undesirable male behavioural patterns (eg peeing on every single tree).
Neutered females do not have seasons with the associated management and potential for pregnancy.
Females cannot get Pyometron – when the uterus becomes pus filled, which can – untreated – lead to death, and will almost always require surgery much more costly than routine neutering.
Females are far less likely to get mammary cancers (“breast cancer”) if neutered before starting their seasons.
Females cannot become accidentally pregnant.
Neither males or females can get testicular, uterine or ovarian cancer once neutered.
Males are less likely to develop issues with their prostate (enlargement) if neutered.
Early neutering is generally a quicker procedure.
Reduces the unwanted dog population overall which is far better for animal welfare.
Small dog breeds seem to have no increased risk of joint disease, urinary incontinence or cancers.

There are some possible drawbacks of early neutering in some breeds

Some larger breed dogs MAY have an increased risk of some cancers if neutered before 6 months. They all generally still benefit from neutering, but some MAY benefit from waiting until a year or more of age. In certain breeds, the benefits of neutering early may need to be weighed up against the risk of this.
Some larger breed dogs may have increased incidence of joint disorders (arthritis, growth plate issues, ligament issues) if neutered early.
Some larger breed female dogs MAY have an increased incidence of urinary incontinence with early neutering. This is still a very small percentage of dogs.