What are the Pros and Cons of Neutering a Male Dog

Dogs are considered to be one of the joys of men. Although some of us are scared or allergic to dogs, we still can’t deny that these pets or animals are one of the most adorable creatures on earth. Aside from their cute and cuddly looks, dogs are also very loyal to their owners, earning them the title of “Man’s Best Friend”. However, these pets could also multiply faster than most men do. Because of this, many dogs are left homeless and abandoned. This is the reason why neutering dogs came to picture. Nevertheless, it is still important for us to know what are the pros and cons of neutering a male dog. This way, we can be able to weigh things to decide whether this process is considered right or wrong.

What is neutering?

Before discussing the advantages and disadvantages of neutering dogs, it is better for us to define first what neutering is. Neutering is considered as the act of removing the male dog’s testicles thus making him sterile. This process is usually done under general anesthesia in order to make it more comfortable for the dogs during the operation. Doing this act is considered by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals as something that needed to be done among male dogs in order to prevent the potentially fatal health problems as well as the rapid increase of dog population all over the world. A ballooning population of dogs is generally a disadvantage not just for humans, but as well as for dogs too since this predisposes a lot of dogs living on streets without owners and caretakers. Because of these, many dogs will end up dying due to lack of food and the absence of shelter. However, is it right for us to take away something that is naturally given to these animals? Here are some of the pros and cons of neutering dogs.

What are the pros of neutering a male dog?

When scheduled for neutering, dogs are usually required to be of right age. Experts or veterinarians usually prefer dogs that are between 8 to 18 weeks of age to be neutered. This is to make sure that fast and painless recovery is achieved. This process is said to be performed in order to serve the purpose of birth control for dogs and reducing the risk of health problems. One of these health problems is the elimination of the possible occurrence of testicular cancer and other prostate problems. As we all know, dogs can also have problems in health similar to humans. Aside from these, dogs are also considered to less likely develop diabetes, chronic ulcerative lesions and perianal fistula. In other words, neutering does not only hinder the overpopulation problem of dogs but they also improve the dogs’ life.

What are the cons of neutering a male dog?

Although neutering dogs can actually help improve the dog’s condition and health months after the surgery, this process can still instill some health risks later in their lives. According to statistics and recent studies about neutering dogs, dogs are highly at risk of developing osteosarcoma, which is a type of bone cancer, if they are neutered before reaching one year. Other diseases and health risks possible post neutering is the occurrence of urinary tract cancer and other malignant tumors, including the heart otherwise known as hemangiosarcoma. Neutered dogs are also considered to be at risk for hypothyroidism or low thyroid levels due to the reactions to the different vaccinations. According to some experts, neutering dogs poses more cons or health risks rather than all the benefits it can bring.

So in case we are thinking of doing the same process to our beloved pets, it is best for us to think of it first and weigh all the advantages and disadvantages of this procedure. As we all know, dogs are loyal animals that even the decisions pertaining to their body and health is being entrusted to us as their owners and masters. So it is best for us to treasure this loyalty and think what is best for our dogs.