Overview
Neutering your dog is a routine procedure with important health benefits. For males, it involves removing the testicles through a straightforward operation called castration. For females, it’s known as spaying, and involves removing the ovaries, and usually the womb too. Both castration and spaying are done 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, some studies have found that neutered dogs typically live longer than dogs who aren't neutered. 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?
The dog neutering op is much easier for dogs than it used to be, thanks to improvements in veterinary care. Since male and female dogs have different reproductive organs, neutering a male dog is different from spaying a female dog.
How is a male dog castrated?
Your vet will make a small surgical incision in front of your dog's scrotum before removing the testicles and closing the incision. This op is performed under general anaesthetic and typically takes around 30 minutes. In some cases, if your dog has an undescended testicle(s), the surgery is a little more complicated, and they may need additional incisions.
How is a female dog spayed?
Spaying is a little more complicated than castration, and the operation may take up to an hour. Again, your dog will be placed under general anaesthetic. During surgery, your vet will make a small cut into your dog's belly to remove the ovaries and (in most cases) the uterus. They will then close the incision with sutures or staples.
Traditionally, dogs are spayed by surgically removing both ovaries and the womb (uterus). To do this, an incision is made down the middle of your dog's stomach, and the surgeon removes the organs. Modern techniques, however, mean there is a new, less intrusive way to spay your dog. Some vets offer laparoscopic surgery (known as keyhole surgery). This procedure is becoming increasingly popular as it requires smaller incisions, through which only the ovaries are removed. It's also often quicker than a traditional spay, with a faster recovery time for your dog as well.
Both techniques are safe, effective, and have the same outcome. Your vet can advise which will work best for you and your dog.
Read more: A guide to your dog's first season
How to prepare your dog for neutering
If you're getting your dog ready for the operation, there are a few things you need to remember:
Your dog shouldn't eat anything during the four to six hours before surgery. Your veterinary team will advise you when to take their food bowl away. You can still give your dog water during this time.
If your dog hasn't been feeling well, let your vet know so they can check if your dog is healthy enough for the operation.
It's wise to avoid giving your dog a bath before the op (unless they are very dirty or muddy).
If your dog is female, the operation must be performed when they aren't in season or having a false pregnancy. If your dog is coming into season, producing milk or has any signs of an active hormonal cycle, the spay may be delayed until it's safer.
What happens during a dog neutering operation?
Once you've left your dog with the vet, they will:
Give them a mild sedative and pain relief to help them relax before settling them in a kennel
Administer a general anaesthetic and attach them to monitoring equipment. This will likely include having a small patch of hair shaved on one of their front legs to allow access for medications and intravenous fluids if needed, via an intravenous catheter (cannula).
Clean and shave your dog's belly. This creates a sterile space for the surgeon to operate and reduces the likelihood of contamination or infection
Your dog is continuously monitored under anaesthesia by a veterinary nurse whilst the surgeon removes the reproductive organs and closes the incisions
Your dog is woken from the anaesthetic and carefully watched in recovery
Further pain relief is given as necessary
After the operation, your dog will be moved back to their kennel and watched until they wake up. The vet may also offer your dog a small meal. Generally, your dog will be ready to go home after a few hours.
Recovery from neutering
Recovery from dog neutering varies, but it's normal if your pet appears drowsy or slow for a up to 24 hours post-surgery. Once the anaesthetic wears off, they will bounce back to their usual selves.
Despite seeming eager to play and run, ensure they rest and recuperate for at least seven to ten days, perhaps longer, allowing the wound and stitches to heal and prevent complications. Don't allow dogs to run, jump, lick at their stitches or play roughly during this time.
After surgery, your dog will wear a cone or body suit to protect the wound and signal to other dog owners that they've had an operation. It’s important that they wear either a cone or suit when unsupervised until the wound is fully healed, as dogs can do a lot of damage to a surgical wound by licking at it, even in a short space of time. For your dog's safety, it's crucial to keep them on a lead during walks, refrain from play dates with other dogs, and confine them to one room or a crate at home.
This is only a temporary measure. Following a successful check-up and clearance from the vet, they can resume their usual activities.
Check-ups
Your dog will undergo a post-surgery check-up two to three days after the operation to check your dog’s immediate recovery and again seven to ten days post-operation, allowing the vet to assess the wound, confirm proper healing, and advise when off-lead activities can resume. Any external stitches will be removed at this second appointment.
Preparing for your dog's neutering procedure
Before the procedure:
Don't feed your dog during the four to six hours before they are admitted for surgery (or for however long your vet advises).
Give your dog full access to water right up to when you leave for the vet.
Don't bathe your dog during the 24 hours before surgery (unless your dog is extremely dirty or muddy).
Let your dog out on a leash to relieve themselves, keeping them dry.
What should I do after my dog is back home?
After the procedure:
Dogs often go home the same day, a few hours post-procedure.
Your dog will be under observation to ensure they are recovering well.
Expect a drowsy pet that needs careful watching for 24 to 48 hours.
Follow-up visits are usually at two to three days after surgery, then again after seven to 10 days, and finally at 10 to 14 days for stitch removal.
Keep them rested and confined to a safe space, using a leash when outside.
Give any medication to them as prescribed, even if they don’t seem sore or unwell.
What are the benefits of neutering your dog?
Neutering has many benefits for both male and female dogs.
Benefits of castrating intact male dogs include:
Removes the risk of testicular cancer, which is the second most common cancer in unneutered male dogs.
Diminishes sexual drive, curtailing roaming behaviours.
Reduces the risk of hormone-related diseases, including tumours.
Lessens the likelihood of prostate problems.
Some studies have also found neutering extends life expectancy (compared to unneutered dogs).
Benefits of spaying female dogs include:
Prevention of unwanted pregnancies and litters.
Prevents seasons, and therefore the behavioural and practical considerations these bring.
Prevents pyometra, which is an infection of the uterus and can be fatal.
Eliminates the risk of ovarian or uterine cancer.
Reduces the risk of mammary cancer if spayed early.
Stops fake pregnancies.
Read more: Pyometra in dogs
Side effects of neutering your dog
After your dog has been neutered, you may see some side effects. These can include:
Lethargy, reluctance to eat, or mild tummy upsets. These can be normal, although if they continue for more than 24 hours, contact your vet
Poorly healed wounds caused by licking, over-exercising, or knocking the wound
Some other long-term effects may arise after neutering, such as:
Weight gain
Neutering can slow your dog's metabolism and lead to weight gain, particularly in overfed and under-exercised dogs. After neutering, many dogs will need to move to a lighter diet or reduce their feeding amount slightly - usually by about 10%. A balanced diet and regular exercise are important to prevent obesity post-neutering. If you'd like to know more about how and what to feed your dog after neutering, speak to a member of your veterinary team.
Orthopaedic issues
Early neutering has been associated with an increased risk of various joint disorders in larger breeds. One study indicated that Golden Retrievers neutered before six months were particularly susceptible. If you are concerned about your dog’s joint health, your vet will be happy to discuss neutering timings and options with you.
Cancer
Some types of cancers, such as bone cancer, are more prevalent in neutered dogs. However, others, such as mammary, ovarian and testicular cancers, are obviously reduced.
Incontinence
There is an increased risk of urinary incontinence in spayed dogs, especially female dogs spayed prior to their first season. While this is rare, if it occurs, it will last a lifetime, although it can be managed with care and medication.
When to get your dog neutered
The best time to neuter your dog can depend on many factors, including their sex, breed, size, and temperament.
Smaller dogs can be neutered when they're around six months old. For unneutered female dogs, it's usually advised to wait until after their first heat cycle before neutering. As a general rule, small breeds are neutered sooner and giant breeds are generally neutered later, due to the time each takes to mature and reach full body size.
The timing of neutering for female dogs also depends on their heat cycle. The best time to spay is around three months after a season when hormone levels are low, and your dog's uterus is in a resting state. Spaying while in heat can lead to ongoing hormonal problems.
In any case, it's always worth chatting with your vet to decide the right time.
Signs your dog needs to be neutered
Some behaviours or practical challenges can prompt owners to consider neutering. If your male dog is roaming in search of a mate, or your female struggles with her season, it may be worth discussing with your vet. Likewise, many dog daycares ask for dogs over six months to be neutered.
You can find more on this topic in signs your dog needs to be neutered here.
How much does dog neutering cost?
The cost of neutering a dog typically depends on:
Gender of the dog, with spaying being more expensive than castration
Size and weight of your dog (usually neutering costs less for smaller dogs)
Your practice
Type of treatment (i.e. laparoscopic vs traditional spay)
On average, the cost of castrating a male dog in the UK ranges from £320 to £365, while the cost for spaying a female dog is usually higher, ranging from £430 to £500.
Members of Pet Health Club get a discount of up to 20% on the procedure.
Alternative options for neutering
If you're worried about surgically neutering your dog or aren't sure whether neutering is right for you, there are other options. Chemical castration is a temporary option for males. The procedure is similar to microchipping, with a small implant placed under your dog's skin which releases a synthetic hormone, suppressing testosterone. It's a great option for owners considering neutering due to behavioural issues. Only lasting six to 12 months, it lets vets and owners see if the issues are being caused due to hormones, or if neutering isn't the right solution to the problem.
Chemical castration has numerous benefits, including:
You can choose not to replace it if it doesn't suit your dog.
It's cheaper than surgical neutering (although not permanent).
No surgery is required, so no anaesthesia.
The recovery time is faster.
It's very effective.
However, like all options, it does have some downsides. These include the possibility of permanent hormonal changes. Our vets have written a full guide to chemical castration in dogs which you can read before discussing all your options with your vet.
What science says about neutering your dog
One study found that neutered male dogs live around 13.8% longer compared to those that aren’t neutered. For female dogs, the increase is even more significant, with spayed females living around 26.3% longer than those that remain intact. It also concluded that neutering can help protect your dog from some health issues. Neutered dogs are less likely to suffer from infectious diseases, trauma, vascular diseases, and degenerative conditions. However, it’s worth knowing that neutered dogs may have a slightly higher risk of developing certain other conditions, including some types of cancer and immune-mediated diseases.
Another study investigated the best time to neuter dogs and found that the ideal age can vary based on breed and size. Large breeds, such as Golden Retrievers and German Shepherds, are more prone to joint problems if neutered before their first birthday, so waiting until around two years can help reduce the risk. In contrast, small breeds like Chihuahuas and Shih Tzus generally don’t face increased health risks from neutering at any age. The study also found that neutering can slightly increase the risk of some cancers, particularly when done early. Female dogs may also be more prone to urinary incontinence if spayed too young, especially in medium to large breeds.
Dog neutering FAQs
Do male dogs change after being neutered?
It depends. Dogs are individuals, and some will show more hormone-related behaviours than others. In most cases, training and socialisation will have far greater effects than neutering, and core temperament traits will remain the same.
How soon can I walk my dog after neutering?
You can generally walk your dog a few days after their operation. Ensure you start small and slow, and keep them on the lead and away from other, more boisterous dogs. Brain games, puzzles, and indoor training can be beneficial to keep them occupied during recovery if you have a high-energy dog, such as a Border Collie or Golden Retriever.
How do I comfort my dog after neutering?
When you bring your dog home from the vet, make sure they have a quiet space to rest. This could be a crate or a room to themselves. Try to keep other pets away for the first few hours. Don't let your dog run or jump around. Reassure your dog if they seem confused or disoriented, and offer small meals and fresh water regularly.
How long after neutering dog is testosterone gone?
After neutering, it takes about six weeks for testosterone levels in male dogs to drop significantly. While the testicles, the main source of testosterone, are removed during surgery, small amounts of the hormone can still circulate for a few weeks. During this time, some hormone-driven behaviours may continue but should gradually decrease.
Can neutering change my dog's coat?
After neutering, the hormonal changes cause some dogs to develop fur that is thicker, softer, or woollier than before. In some cases, your dog's coat may also become more prone to matting and require more grooming. These changes are cosmetic and do not usually affect your dog's health or wellbeing. This is most commonly seen in breeds with silky or feathered coats, including Irish Setters and some spaniels.
Need more advice on pet neutering?
For expert advice on dog castration and dog spaying, contact your local vet. Find your nearest vet using our Find a Vet page. Members of Pet Health Club get a discount of up to 20% on neutering procedures.
Join the club today
Get regular health checks, vaccinations, and more, all included in your plan.
Medically reviewed by Lizzie Youens, BSc(Hons) BVSc MRCVS
Published on 11/06/2025 • Reviewed on 06/08/2026