Neuter or sterilize? This is a question that on many occasions we will have to think about if there are more than two dogs in our home and they are of opposite sexes.
Avoiding unwanted litters is a responsibility inherent to the quality of caretaker when we adopt our dogs.
In this article on our site we will expose the differences between neutering and spaying a dog. In this way, if one day you have to make that decision, you will be aware of both techniques and you will be able to choose the most suitable for your dog.
Neuter a dog
Neutering a dog requires surgery and must be performed by a veterinarian. This technique consists of extracting the dog's testicles, leaving the scrotal sac. It is irreversible.
Advantage:
- Inhibits the male from sexual desire and avoids the associated conflicts.
- Decreases possible dog dominance by ceasing testosterone production.
- Decreases the probability of prostate diseases.
- It is easier to socialize and train dogs when they are more tame.
- They get along better with other pets.
Cons:
- There is danger with anesthesia, as there always is with any surgery.
- The recovery process is slower than sterilization.
- Can lead to obesity if diet is not properly restructured.
Neuter a bitch
Neutering a female dog is a delicate surgery that can only be performed by a veterinarian. In females, there are two methods of castration The first is called ovariectomy and consists of extracting both bitch's ovaries. The second is called ovarihysterectomy, and involves removing the ovaries and uterus.
Advantage:
- By not producing hormones, the heat of the females disappears.
- Prevents breast cancer and tumors in the reproductive organs.
- Tame the character.
Cons:
They are the same as between dogs
Neuter a dog
sterilization is a surgical modality less invasive than conventional castration. However, it can only be practiced by veterinarians. It consists of cutting the seminiferous ducts (these are the tubes that connect the testicles to the penis).
Advantage:
- It is less invasive than castration.
- Recovery is faster.
- Reduces the possibility of prostate diseases.
Cons:
- Hormone production is not suppressed.
- Dog sexual desire is not eliminated.
- If the animal is dominant, it will not change its character.
Neuter a bitch
The sterilization of a female dog consists of the ligation of the fallopian tubes(ovioducts).
Advantage:
- Less invasive surgery.
- Faster recovery.
- Reduces the possibility of diseases of the uterus, ovaries and breast tumors.
Cons:
- The bitch is still in heat.
- Attracts males.
- Your character is not softened.
Recovery Periods
The recovery periods between both surgeries are quite different.
Castration:
- males usually make a full recovery in 1 week.
- females may take up to 2 weeks to recover total.
Sterilization:
- The males usually recover within 2 to 3 days.
- The females recover in about 5 days.
Conclusions
Now that you have discovered the differences between neutering and spaying a dog, it's time to choose correctly. To decide between castration and sterilization it is important to assess the original character of the dog, the importance we give to trying to avoid unwanted litters and the prevention of some problems of he alth offered by castration. Consult the specialist about the best option for your dog if you have any doubts.