Early Spaying and Neutering: Risks and Healthy Alternatives for Your Dog

Delaying spaying and neutering can allow your dog to grow and develop naturally, reducing risks associated with early procedures.

Spaying and neutering are standard procedures that many pet owners consider for their dogs. While these surgeries offer some benefits, they also come with potential side effects, especially when done at a young age. In this blog, we’ll explore the potential risks of early spaying and neutering, along with alternative methods to help your dog thrive without compromising their health.

Understanding Early Spaying and Neutering

Early spaying and neutering refer to the practice of performing these surgeries before a dog reaches sexual maturity. This is often done between the ages of 6 and 9 months, though some breeders and shelters may opt for even earlier procedures.

Denise Bozenski, holistic pet health coach, explains, “While spaying and neutering can help control pet populations, it’s important to understand that early procedures can have long-term consequences on a dog’s physical and emotional well-being.”

Learn about Denise HERE!

Potential Side Effects of Early Spaying and Neutering

While spaying and neutering have their advantages, there are also risks to consider, especially when done at an early age:

Hormonal Imbalance

Spaying and neutering remove the reproductive organs, which produce hormones essential for the development and function of your dog’s body. Early spaying and neutering can lead to a hormonal imbalance, affecting growth, metabolism, and even behavior.

Denise says, “Hormones play a vital role in your dog’s development. Removing them prematurely can impact bone growth, muscle development, and even behavior patterns.”

Increased Risk of Joint Problems

Studies have shown that early spaying and neutering, particularly in large breeds, can increase the risk of joint problems, such as hip dysplasia and cruciate ligament tears. The lack of sex hormones can cause the bones and joints to develop abnormally, leading to issues down the line.

Changes in Behavior

Hormones are responsible for regulating mood and behavior. When spaying or neutering occurs too early, dogs may experience increased anxiety, fearfulness, or aggression. It can also alter their social behavior, leading to issues with confidence or reactivity.

Increased Risk of Certain Cancers

While spaying and neutering can reduce the risk of some cancers, studies have shown that early spaying and neutering may increase the risk of others, such as osteosarcoma (bone cancer) and hemangiosarcoma (a cancer of the blood vessels). The loss of sex hormones may contribute to the development of these types of cancers.

Changes in Coat and Skin Health

Hormonal changes caused by early spaying and neutering can also affect a dog’s coat and skin health. Some dogs may experience thinning or dry fur, while others might develop skin conditions such as allergies or hot spots.

Alternatives to Early Spaying and Neutering

While early spaying and neutering may not be ideal for every dog, there are alternative methods to help your dog thrive:

Delayed Spaying and Neutering

One alternative to early spaying and neutering is delaying the procedure until your dog reaches physical maturity. For most dogs, this occurs around 12-18 months, depending on their breed and size. This allows their body to develop fully before undergoing the surgery.

Denise suggests, “If you choose to spay or neuter, I recommend waiting until your dog is fully grown. This gives their bones and joints a chance to develop properly and reduces the risk of complications.”

Vasectomy or Ovariectomy

For pet owners who don’t want to breed their dog but still want to maintain some hormonal function, a vasectomy (for males) or ovariectomy (for females) may be an option. These procedures remove the reproductive organs while leaving the hormonal glands intact, helping to maintain natural hormone production.

Behavioral and Training Support

In some cases, behavioral problems related to hormones can be managed through training and behavioral modification techniques. Consistent training, socialization, and exercise can help reduce issues such as aggression or anxiety, allowing your dog to thrive without the need for early spaying or neutering.

Natural Supplements for Health and Hormonal Balance

For dogs that have undergone spaying or neutering, natural supplements can help support hormonal balance and overall health. Supplements such as adaptogenic herbs (like ashwagandha or maca root) and essential fatty acids can help manage stress, support joint health, and improve coat condition.

Denise adds, “Herbs and supplements can be wonderful tools to support your dog’s overall well-being, particularly if they’ve been spayed or neutered at an early age. Always consult a holistic professional to find the best options for your dog.”

Read our blog, Herbal Supplements for Dogs: How They Can Help Your Pup Thrive, for more information on herbs that can help your dog!

Focus on Diet and Exercise

A balanced diet and regular exercise are essential for a dog’s physical and mental health, especially when hormonal changes are a concern. Providing a nutrient-rich diet that supports joint health, skin health, and mental clarity can help mitigate some of the side effects of early spaying and neutering.

Learn more about how a fresh food diet can benefit your dog on our blog, The Benefits of a Fresh Food Diet for Dogs: Raw & Home-Cooked.

Thinking about spaying or neutering your dog? Book a consultation with Denis to discuss the best options for your dog’s health and long-term well-being. Get started HERE!

FAQs

Can delaying spaying or neutering improve a dog’s health?

Yes, delaying the procedure allows dogs to develop physically and hormonally, which may reduce the risk of joint problems, behavioral changes, and certain cancers.

Are there risks to keeping a dog intact?

While there are benefits to keeping a dog intact, such as maintaining natural hormones, it can also increase the risk of unwanted pregnancies and certain health issues, like pyometra (infection of the uterus) in females.

What are the benefits of a vasectomy or ovariectomy?

These procedures allow your dog to remain hormonally intact, preventing the risks associated with early spaying and neutering while still preventing reproduction.