# When – and whether – should we spay/neuter companion dogs

## TL;DR

This paper discusses the pros and cons of spaying/neutering dogs, highlighting how the procedure can increase risks of certain health issues but remains important for preventing others.

## Contribution

The paper provides updated insights on the impact of spaying/neutering on dog health and recommends optimal timing based on scientific data.

## Key findings

- Spaying/neutering increases risks of some non-neoplastic and neoplastic conditions in dogs.
- Gonadectomy reduces the risk of mammary neoplasia in bitches and prostatic hypertrophy in male dogs.
- The optimal age for surgery depends on breed, sex, and specific health conditions.

## Abstract

The recent publication of guidelines for the control of reproduction in dogs and cats shows that a variety of non‐neoplastic and neoplastic conditions occur more commonly in spayed/neutered than entire dogs, and for several of such conditions the earlier the age at surgery – the higher the risk. In addition, unwanted behavioural changes may occur after gonadectomy rather than expected improvement in behaviour in some dogs. However, the fact that surgical gonadectomy increases the risk of any such condition does not mean that dogs should not be spayed/neutered any more. Gonadectomy still plays a major role in lowering the risk of mammary neoplasia and pyometra in bitches and of prostatic hypertrophy in male dogs. The evidence that gonadectomy influences the development of a condition is often conflicting, and it varies depending on the breed, sex and condition. This paper briefly illustrates current knowledge on the incidence of the above conditions in gonadectomised dogs, providing information on whether or not – and what is the best age at which – to perform gonadectomy in our companion dogs based on available scientific data.