Neutering is a great way to reduce your dog’s risk for certain health problems, such as cancer and heart disease. It also reduces undesirable behaviors like aggression and excessive activity levels.
However, many pet owners are concerned that neutering isn’t as good for their pets as it seems.
We find out what happens when your dog is neutered and what he will look like after his recovery time.
Why Neuter A Male Dog?
Neutering a male dog is an important part of his overall health and well-being. It comes with a range of positive health benefits.
It can help to prevent him from getting prostate cancer, testicular tumors, and other diseases that can be fatal if left untreated.
Male dogs are more likely than female dogs to develop these conditions because they have testosterone in their bodies.
This hormone causes the cells inside the penis to grow faster than normal. The result: Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), which may cause difficulty urinating or even blockage of the urethra.
If not treated, this condition can lead to bladder stones, kidney failure, and death.
Male dogs also tend to get testicular tumors at a young age. These tumors can be benign or malignant, but most often are benign.
They usually occur in one or both testicles. Testicular tumors can become painful or interfere with your dog’s ability to breed.
In addition, neutering a male dog affects his hormones and makes him more docile.
This can result in him being calmer and less aggressive toward people or other animals.
When Should A Dog Be Neutered?
The American Veterinary Medical Association recommends neutering all intact males between six months of age and two years old.
A dog’s first heat cycle occurs when he is about four to five months old.
During this time, he will begin to show signs of sexual maturity such as mounting behavior, increased vocalizations, and changes in body hair.
Vets say that neutering a male dog before he goes through puberty reduces the risk of certain cancers and decreases aggression.
How To Neuter A Male Dog
There are several ways to neuter a male dog. Most vets recommend spaying by using a needle to inject a contraceptive solution into each testicle.
Some veterinarians use a surgical procedure called castration, where a veterinarian removes the testes.
Both procedures are effective and safe for male dogs. However, there are some risks associated with them.
For example, surgery requires anesthesia and general anesthesia is risky for small breeds.
Also, while your dog is recovering from the procedure, he may experience pain and discomfort.
There are risks of your dog suffering from bleeding, swelling, infection, and nerve damage after his castration.
Your vet should discuss any potential complications with you before performing the procedure.
Your vet can also give you advice on how to care for your dog in the days after surgery.
What You Can Expect After Your Dog Has Been Neutered
After your dog has been castrated, he will need to recover for up to three weeks. Although neutering isn’t a difficult procedure, it can have a big impact on your dog’s life.
Here are a few things you can expect after your dog has been neutered, and what you can do to ensure a quick recovery.
Some Swelling
In the first days after the neutering procedure, your dog’s scrotum will still be red and swollen. Your vet should give you some take-home medication for the dog.
This will ensure that the swelling only lasts for a few days.
Your vet should also give you specific advice on how often you should give your dog the medication, and what else you can do to make sure your dog recovers quickly.
Your Dog Will Be Tired
Right after the surgery, your dog will still feel tired from the anesthetic. When you get back home, you should put him in his dog bed and check up on him regularly.
You’ll notice that he won’t want to play or climb around like he normally does. This is normal and is no cause for concern.
He’ll likely sleep for a few hours and then slowly wake up.
Keep The Dog In A Calm Environment
If you’re worried about your dog’s reaction to the surgery, take him to a quiet room at your house. Make sure that you keep him away from other pets or children until he feels better.
Don’t let anyone touch him for a few hours as he may still feel dizzy from the anesthetics.
It’s important to keep your dog calm during the healing process so that he doesn’t injure himself.
Regularly Check The Wound
To avoid any infections, you must check the wound regularly.
The wound will usually heal within two to three weeks. If you notice any pus or bleeding during this time, you should contact your vet immediately.
Avoid Excessive Exercise
Exercise is good for your dog but too much exercise right after the operation could lead to injury.
Try not to walk your dog for a few hours. If he needs to go out, you can either let him out into your yard or take him only a short distance.
Be Patient With The Recovery Process
The post-surgery period is usually quite painful for your dog. He may cry out when you pick him up or try to bite you.
That’s why try not to touch your dog near his hind side. Any contact with the wound increases the risk of further bleeding or infection.
Give Him Plenty Of Rest And Water
While your dog is still in the phase when he is tired, he may not eat and drink as much as normal. But once your dog starts feeling better, you can start giving him more water and food.
Make sure that you feed him small amounts every two hours. Don’t overfeed him because this could increase the risk of vomiting.
Also, don’t force him to eat if he doesn’t seem hungry. It’s best to leave him alone for a while before offering him any food.
Give Your Dog Plenty Of Attention
After the surgery, your dog may be scared and nervous. That’s why you should spend lots of time sitting by his side and gently stroke him if he is happy with this.
Knowing that you are there will make your dog feel safe and secure during the time he is vulnerable.
What Does A Neutered Dog Look Like?
Your dog may be tired and anxious after neuter surgery. You will notice that he won’t want to eat or drink much in the first few hours.
The wound around the dog’s testicles will initially look bright pink. The scrotum will be swollen and some light discharge may occur.
What the wound looks like exactly depends on how your vet closed it. Some wounds are closed with visible staples.
Other vets prefer to close the wound with internal sutures underneath the skin.
Frequently Asked Questions
While neutering a dog is a very common procedure, it is still a surgical incision that can come with certain risks, such as the signs of infection.
Will My Dog’s Balls Shrink After Neutering?
Neutering does not remove the scrotum. However, it does look like nothing has happened at first because of the swelling.
No. Neutering makes dogs calmer and happier. Neutering does reduce aggression in male dogs.
Should I Clean My Dog’s Neuter Wound?
Yes, you can clean your dog’s wound. This helps prevent infections and keeps the area from getting dirty again.
Simply use some warm water and a cotton ball to gently clean the wound. Do not use any soap or other cleaning products.
How Long Will My Dog Be Disoriented After Neutering?
Neutering usually takes place under anesthesia. However, he might be disorientated for a short period of time.
If your dog seems confused, give him some time to orientate and make sure that he doesn’t injure himself.
How Do I Know My Dog Has An Infection After Being Neutered?
You need to pay attention to your dog’s behavior. If your dog shows symptoms of an infection, such as fever, lethargy, or bleeding, then contact your vet immediately.
Final Thoughts
It’s important to remember that neutering is a routine procedure that most dogs go through without any complications.
Hi, my name is Megan Turner and I have worked in a dog’s shelter for four years now. It is truly my dream job, and I see hundreds of dogs every month being united with new owners to give them a loving forever home.
Unfortunately, handicapped dogs are much more likely to be ignored when a family is picking out their new pet. Handicapped pets need more care than non-handicapped pets, so it is understandable why they are often harder to rehome.
