by Kaitlin Evaston
This day in age there are many different opinions on the neutering of male dogs.
Now whether it’s a “masculine” thing or just simply your own personal fear of your dog undergoing surgery, people need to know that neutering your male dog is not only safer for them but it’s safer for other dogs and humans as well.
An un-neutered male dog is more likely to get testicular cancer and have prostate issues throughout their life.
An un-neutered male dog is also more prone to aggression towards other dogs and even humans. Here are a few myths you may have heard regarding the neutering of male dogs:
Myth: Neutering my male makes him less “masculine.”
Truth: There’s nothing “masculine” about testicular cancer. There’s also nothing “masculine” about a male dog getting loose and trying to knock up an un-spayed female. There’s nothing “masculine” about a litter of puppies or the responsibility that comes with it. And there’s nothing “masculine” about aggression and potentially violent behavior towards other animals and humans.
Myth: Neutering will hurt my pet.
Truth: A typical neuter for a dog (depending on the size) usually takes between 5 to 20 minutes. At Neffsville, we use the safest general anesthesia available and we practice great patient care and pain management. This usually includes pain medications post-op as well. The healing process usually takes about 7 to 10 days, but in my experience most young males are up and acting like their usual self in a day or two.
Myth: Neutering will fix all my dog’s behavior problems.
Truth: Although neutering your male dog may reduce some undesirable behaviors, there is no guarantee that the dog’s behavior will change after being neutered. Neutering does reduce the amount of testosterone in your dog’s system, but it does not completely eliminate the hormone. It also will not change behaviors that have become habitual to your dog like chewing your sofa up or digging holes in the backyard. These behaviors are something you as the owner need to work on nipping in the bud. If they become out of control or if your dog is acting in an outwardly aggressive manor, please contact your veterinarian or consult a behaviorist.
In summary, neutering your male dog is extremely important. Not only are you reducing their risk of cancer, but you are helping them to live a healthier and longer life. With so many dogs in shelters without homes, the best thing we as pet owners can do is to continue to prevent puppies from ending up there as well. Neutering your male dog is the most masculine thing you can do for him. Contact Neffsville Veterinary Clinic for more information on neutering your male dog today!
