The main benefit of neutering is the prevention of unwanted pregnancy. Spaying females also has the benefits of preventing them coming into heat, eliminates the risk of womb infection (pyometra) and if performed before the second season greatly reduces the risk of mammary cancer in bitches.
Castration of males can reduce the risk of straying, eliminates the risk of testicular tumours and may reduce the incidence of enlarged prostate glands in older dogs.
Recommendations for the most appropriate age to carry out neutering vary so it is important to discuss the options with your veterinary surgeon.
