Dog sterilization is becoming more common. In this article, we will explain to you what is meant by this, where the differences to castration lie, how sterilization in dogs works exactly, and what costs you have to reckon with.
What is canine sterilization?
When a dog is sterilized, the fallopian tubes (in bitches) or the vas deferens (in males) are severed or clamped off. The so-called gonads are therefore preserved. The dog can no longer reproduce.
At this point, many dog lovers ask themselves what the exact difference to castration is. Castration is a major procedure in which the ovaries or testicles are completely removed, which in turn has a greater effect on the hormone balance. However, this remains in the case of sterilization, so that bitches, for example, still come into heat despite being sterilized.
Sterilization is of course associated with numerous advantages and disadvantages, which we list below:
Benefits of sterilization in dogs
- Reproduction is prevented (99 percent ruled out)
- no intervention in the hormonal balance
- consistent hormone levels and consequently less to no mood swings
- lower risk of mammary gland tumors
- reduced risk of cancer in the ovaries or uterus
- no false pregnancy in bitches
- reduced risk of diabetes
- gentler than castration
Disadvantages of sterilization in dogs
- Surgical risk: Although it is a routine attack, there is still a risk – for example, due to the
general anesthetic;
- Long-term effects: Sterilized dogs can develop health problems (e.g. due to uterine inflammation);
- possible weight gain (but less often than with castration);
- Changes in the coating structure: The coat of spayed dogs often becomes duller with age;
- higher likelihood of incontinence.
Should I have my dog spayed or not?
If you are unsure whether you should have your fur nose sterilized or not, ask a veterinarian for advice.
When can I have my dog spayed? – The right age
Spaying is usually done when the dog is sexually mature. However, sexual maturity occurs at different times depending on the size and breed of the dog. While small four-legged friends are usually sexually mature from the age of seven months, this can take up to 14 months for large furry friends. If the dog is sexually mature early, sterilization can be carried out between the sixth and eighth months of life. For bitches, it is usually recommended to sterilize after the first heat.
It is important to discuss the time of sterilization with your vet beforehand and let them advise you!
When should you have a dog spayed?
Some dogs can be spayed as early as six to eight months of age. For bitches, it is recommended to sterilize after the first heat.
Sterilization in males and females – the process
It is important that you first get detailed advice from the veterinarian you trust. He can explain all the advantages and disadvantages to you again and you can decide together whether sterilization is the right procedure for your dog. If you are sure and would like to have your four-legged friend sterilized, you can make an appointment for the operation. Your fur nose must not eat in the 12 hours before the operation and must not drink any liquid in the hours immediately before the operation. The sobriety rests because the procedure takes place under general anesthesia.
During the operation itself, the dog’s gonads are only tied off. In other words, the vas deferens are severed in males and the fallopian tubes are blocked in females. However, the whole procedure is very quick and your darling will be through with the operation after 20 to 60 minutes. If your dog wakes up from the anesthetic a short time later, it must remain under medical supervision for a few hours before you can take it home with you.
Your dog will most likely be given some painkillers for the first two to three days after the procedure, but the pain will be significantly less than the pain associated with spaying and neutering. Nevertheless, it is recommended to refrain from wild romping or long walks for at least a week. Above all, make sure that your furry friend has a warm and comfortable place to rest in the days after the operation, to which it can retreat at any time. In addition, the dog should not scratch or bite itself. To prevent the dogs from licking the wound, most four-legged friends must wear a neck brace after sterilization.
Does sterilization change the nature of the dog?
Some dogs may show slight behavioral changes after being spayed. Bitches in particular often show much less aggressive behavior towards dogs and people. In addition, the “urge to stray” is drastically reduced in bitches during their heat. However, the changes in behavior after sterilization are usually less than those after castration.
In principle, however, the same applies here – possible changes in behavior vary from dog to dog.
Which is better – spaying or neutering the dog?
Whether sterilization or neutering is right for your dog, you should coordinate with your trusted veterinarian. Every dog is different, so there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question.
Alternative to sterilization
Castration of the dog
Many dog owners have their dogs neutered. Dogs are also deprived of their ability to reproduce. The testicles are removed from the male, while the ovaries are removed from the female. The advantages are, for example, that the bitch no longer shows symptoms of being in heat.
Hormone chip (chemical castration)
In addition, dog owners resort to chemical castration using a hormone chip. This means that the four-legged friend is neutered for six to a maximum of twelve months. It is often checked what changes in behavior a correct castration would bring with it and only then is it decided whether this should also be carried out on the dog or not.
Sterilization in dogs – costs
The cost of sterilizing a dog varies from vet to vet. It is therefore important that you find out in advance what costs you have to expect. The procedure usually costs between $150 and $200. In addition, there are the costs for preliminary and follow-up examinations, medication, and materials. If your dog has to stay overnight in the veterinary clinic due to complications, for example, you will incur significantly higher costs.
