Why You Should Have Your Dog Neutered

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     Neutering is the removal of an animal's reproductive organs. In male dogs, it refers to castration, a process during which the testicles are removed. In female canines, it refers to spaying, which involves the removal of the uterus and ovaries. Many owners refuse or neglect to neuter their pets. But there are several advantages to doing so, including health benefits that may extend the life of your dog.

In this article, we'll provide a brief list of the most important reasons to have your pet neutered. You'll discover that doing so will not only benefit your canine, but will make him a more pleasant companion for you and your family.

Reduced Tendency To Roam

Male dogs that are left intact are more inclined to roam in search of mating partners. In the wild, this behavior is natural and unlikely to result in injury or death. In the city, however, they may wander into streets and become injured by drivers who are unable to avoid hitting them.

Neutering reduces your pet's tendency to roam. This in turn reduces the likelihood he'll leave your property and become injured.

Fewer Prostate-Related Issues

Unneutered dogs are more susceptible to problems related to their prostates as they age. In most cases, this involves enlargement of the gland, which can make it more difficult for your pet to urinate. Sometimes, the gland can become infected, or a mass will begin to develop and grow. On rare occasions, intact canines cope with prostate cancer.

Castration of male canines sharply reduces the risk of prostate issues. Such problems can still occur, but they are much less likely in neutered pets.

Less Aggression

An intact dog is more likely to display aggressive behavior toward other male canines. The reason is believed to be due to testosterone, which surges through their bodies. It drives them to compete for female mating partners, and may even extend toward protection of their territory.

This behavior declines in most dogs following castration. Because they are less inclined to aggressively confront other canines, they are less likely to fight and become injured.

Less Inclination To Mark Territory

Your pet, if left unneutered, may mark territory that he considers his own. This may include bushes and trees in the neighborhood, or your garden, yard, and house. Urine marking is common among all dogs, but more so with those that are intact.

Many experts believe marking behavior may be due to testosterone. As with aggression, canines may be more motivated to claim territory they believe is their own. Neutering your pet may help curb the behavior.

Removes Risk Of Testicular Cancer

When intact dogs reach five years of age, the risk of testicular cancer rises significantly. Tumors may form inside the testicles, which places the animal's life in danger. Neutering your male pet eliminates this risk, and thus helps prolong his life.

Helps Reduce The Problem Of Overpopulation

Sadly, millions of canines are euthanized each year due to overpopulation. Many become lost while others are simply abandoned by their owners. Animal shelters often lack the space to take them in, leaving few alternatives to euthanization.

One of the reasons there are so many dogs is because owners neglect to have their pets neutered. This leads to roaming and breeding, which results in overpopulation. By having your male pet castrated, you'll eliminate his contribution to this growing problem.

Dispelling Common Myths About Neutering

A lot of owners refuse to have their canines neutered because they fear doing so will lead to undesirable consequences. In most cases, however, these presumed consequences are based on fallacies. For example, some believe castration leads to weight problems, apathy, and personality changes. Issues involving weight are entirely under the control of the owner. Canines become less active with age, and their diets should be modified to accommodate their energy levels.

A castrated dog does not become apathetic due to being neutered. He may be less inclined to roam, but his energy level should remain consistent. Your pet will still want to play and enjoy walks with you.

Regarding personality, there may be changes due to less aggression. But most owners welcome such changes since aggressive behavior is often problematic.

There are many compelling reasons to have your dog neutered, and very few reasons to choose otherwise. In the end, you'll improve his quality of life, and likely extend his lifespan.