Easy Guide to Dog Sterilization: Steps & Benefits

Section 1: Spaying a Female Dog

Spaying a female dog involves a surgical procedure where the veterinarian makes an incision of approximately 58 centimeters along the median of the dog's abdomen, tailored to the dog's body size. The vet then carefully removes the uterus, which is subsequently cut into smaller pieces—a process known as "Ovariectomy" or OH.

One concern with spaying is that the dog's body may no longer produce hormones, leading to thicker skin, hair loss, and in older dogs, potential incontinence due to insufficient hormones. However, this is a highly effective treatment, as administering oral hormones to the dog can quickly manage these issues.

Another potential outcome is weight gain. With a change in sexual hormones, the dog's libido decreases, and they no longer suffer from heatrelated distress, leading to a focus on eating and gaining weight, resulting in a more rounded and heavier dog.

Section 2: Castration of a Male Dog

Castration in male dogs entails the surgical removal of the testicles from the scrotum. Unlike humans, dogs' seminal vesicles are located in the epididymis, so the surgery is relatively straightforward, involving the removal of the testicles only.

Neutering can make male dogs more docile and less prone to wandering, fighting, or displaying aggressive behavior. If the vas deferens is tied but not removed, the male hormones will still be present, and the dog may still exhibit aggressive or mating behaviors.

Important Pet Health Tip: For more detailed information on dog neutering, click on the Pet Spaying Guide for an informative read.