Reasons to Neuter

Separating myth from fact

Having a litter will help her grow up - False

Raising a litter of puppies will not change her personality. She may not even be a good mother, or she may need emergency medical attention, such as a Caesarean section. In fact, spayed dogs usually make better pets. SPAYING PREVENTS UNWANTED PREGNANCIES.

It will change his temperament - True and False

Neutering the male dog at an early age will help him be less aggressive regarding his "territory". He will also not be tempted to follow the scent of any female in heat in your neighborhood. Early neutering will also help in house-breaking and training by decreasing the incidence of urine marking for territorial reasons. An added benefit is a decrease in the chance of prostate cancer. But it won't turn your dog into a "wimp", and he'll never know what's missing! 

It will reduce her risk of breast cancer - True

If spayed before her first heat (about six months), her risk of developing breast tumors is substantially reduced. Mammary cancer is the number one malignancy of the older female dog. Surgery in the immature female is less prone to complications. Spaying totally eliminates the possibility of ovarian or uterine cancers. 

I plan on making enough money to recoup my investment in this dog - False

Experienced breeders will tell you that they often lose money due to stud fees, veterinary care, food, advertising, and time spent caring for the mother and litter. They all place enormous demands on your resources. Responsible breeders spend a lifetime learning about the bloodlines, genetics, and history of their breed. And this still doesn't guarantee a market for the puppies. RESPONSIBLE BREEDERS ARE WORKING TO IMPROVE THEIR BREED, NOT PROFIT FROM IT.

It will make my dog lazy and fat -- False.

Overeating and lack of exercise make a dog fat, not missing hormones.  

My dog is AKC-registered and ought to be bred -- False

AKC registration is not an indication of quality, or even health.  Neither is the presence of champions in the pedigree. Very few dogs have the outstanding qualities necessary for breeding. Each puppy you produce should be an improvement over the parents. You may feel your dog is perfect, but is it a model for the future of the breed? Read the standard for your breed, and show your dog in competition to see how it measures up to others. Research the common health problems in your breed and discuss testing for genetic defects with your veterinarian.

SPAYING AND NEUTERING ARE THE BEST ANSWERS TO THE PROBLEM OF HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS OF PETS PUT TO DEATH EVERY YEAR.

Many cities are considering expensive fees and licenses for keeping unneutered dogs. Dogs recover from spaying or neutering in about a week, with minimal discomfort. Speak with your veterinarian about your concerns and the benefits of neutering.