Overview
Neutering your dog is a common procedure that brings several health benefits. For male dogs, your vet will remove the testicles (castration), while for females, they'll remove the ovaries and womb (spaying). Both happen under anaesthetic and typically take less than an hour.
The best time to neuter varies depending on your dog's size and breed, so it’s worth discussing this with your vet. Generally, smaller dogs are neutered at a younger age than large breed dogs, to allow larger dogs to fully grow and develop before the operation. Recovery from a neutering operation usually takes around a week or two. Some dogs may gain weight after neutering, so you might need to adjust their diet.
Neutering helps prevent unwanted puppies and reduces the risk of certain cancers. It can also improve your dog's behaviour by reducing roaming and scent marking. Plus, research shows that neutered male dogs typically live 13.8% longer compared to intact males, while spayed female dogs live 26.3% longer. Neutered dogs are also less likely to die from several illnesses, although they may have a slightly higher risk of developing some types of cancer and immune-mediated diseases compared to intact dogs.
What is dog neutering?
How to prepare your dog for neutering
Side effects of neutering your dog
When to get your dog neutered
Signs your dog needs to be neutered
Dog neutering cost
Dog neutering FAQs
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Published on 11/06/2025 • Reviewed on 16/05/2025