A: Neutering of both male and female dogs is recommended before they reach sexual maturity. Some vets will recommend early neuter at 12 – 16 weeks of age, while others prefer to perform the operation at an older age such as 5 to 6 months of age. It is best to ask your own vet and be guided by their preference.

Neutering of female dogs (spaying) will prevent unwanted puppies or the annoying attention of male dogs when they come into season twice a year. From a medical standpoint, spaying at a young age will prevent mammary tumors (breast cancer) and pyometra (infection of the uterus which is often a surgical emergency). Neutering, or castration, of male dogs before puberty will decrease the problems of aggression, urine marking, tendency to roam, and hypersexuality (usually with the furniture or with visitors!) seen in entire male dogs. Medically, castrated dogs cannot develop testicular cancer, and reduces the risk of prostate problems in the older dog.

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