Neutering Dogs: Pros and Cons

Because of the increasing number of stray dogs these days, many experts are now searching for ways in order to prevent the continuous growth of this population. One of the known solutions for this problem is through neutering or castration. What is neutering? Neutering is said to be the surgical procedure in removing the dog’s testicles. This particular act is done not just to solve the problems of overpopulation, but as well as to improve the dog’s behavior and prevent certain diseases like testicular cancer. However, neutering does not only produce benefits, but it can also cause negative side effects to the dogs. This is the reason why it is important for us to weigh both sides of the spectrum before we decide to submit our dogs for such procedure. Here are some of the neutering dogs pros and cons.

What are the positive effects of neutering dogs?

Let us first tackle the pros or the positive effects of neutering dogs. When we decide to have our dogs neutered, then we can be assured that it will remove the possibility of pregnancy. Since many dogs are already homeless or ownerless, most of them usually live on streets. This kind of problem will continue if our dogs keep on repopulating. Unlike humans, dogs usually have 4 to 6 puppies in one pregnancy and these dogs also take lesser than 9 months in order to have these pups delivered. This makes the growth of the dog population a lot faster than humans. However, with the help of neutering, pregnancy is avoided, which can slowly help the constant increase in number of stray or homeless dogs.

Another positive effect or benefit of neutering is that is provides a calmer and more behaved dogs. The removal of the testicles can also decrease or lessen the urge of dogs to mate. This makes them a lot quieter and calmer. This procedure also alleviates the act of dogs to urinate everywhere just to mark their territory. In other words, neutered dogs tend to be more affectionate and less aggressive especially to other animals. Neutering is also very beneficial for the dog’s health since it reduces problems that are related to testicles such as cancer. Aside from this prostate problems are also reduced.

What are the negative effects of neutering dogs?

What are the cons or the negative effects of neutering? Not being able to produce puppies can actually be both a pro and a con for a dog depending on how we look at things. Preventing the growth of dog population can be considered a good thing, but being unable to reproduce cute and friendly puppies can be something that is unfortunate especially for all the dog lovers. In addition to this, neutering can also change or alter the normal appearance of dogs since the testicles are no longer present. However, testicle implant can be added as a replacement to the natural testicles.

Another known negative effect of neutering is the possibility of gaining weight for dogs. Just like what is mentioned above, neutered dogs tend to be less active and less driven in searching for mates. This can cause lesser energy consumption, which can result to weight gain. Neutering can also keep dogs quiet all the time. This may be ideal for those who want peace and silence, but what is the use of dogs if they aren’t friendly and playful anymore? Dogs are considered to be man’s best friend since they are always present and active in becoming man’s companion. However, once neutering is performed, this kind of activity can possibly reduce since dogs will become less energetic.

These are just some of the important facts about neutering dogs as well as the different pros and cons of this type of procedure. Submitting our pets to this kind of act must be thought about carefully prior to making a life changing decision for our dogs.