Desexing (also known as spaying or neutering) is an important decision for dog owners. It reduces the risk of certain health issues, and can positively impact your dog’s behavior. However, the timing of desexing can depend on your dog’s breed and size
At Dreamy Cavoodles, we believe in making informed decisions that prioritize the health and well-being of our dogs. In this blog, we’ll talk about the pros and cons of desexing and the best age to desex.
Why Should You Desex Your Dog?
There are several medical, behavioral, and ethical benefits to desexing your dog, including:
1. Preventing Unwanted Litters
One of the reasons to desex your dog is to prevent accidental pregnancies. It also stops your female dog from coming into “heat/season” (bleeding every 6 months) which can get messy.
2. Health Benefits
Desexing can significantly reduce the risk of certain cancers and infections, including:
Females: Reduced risk of mammary (breast) cancer, ovarian cancer, and life-threatening uterine infections (pyometra).
Males: Reduced risk of testicular cancer and lower chances of prostate issues.
3. Behavioral Benefits
Desexing can help manage hormone-driven behaviors, including:
Reduced marking and territory dominance (especially in males)
Less roaming and escaping to find a mate
Lower aggression levels in some dogs
However, it’s important to note that desexing is not a magic fix for behavioral issues. Training, socialization, and consistent boundaries play a big role in your dog’s behavior.
4. Longer, Healthier Life
Studies suggest that desexed dogs often live longer, healthier lives due to the reduced risk of reproductive diseases and hormone-related health issues.
When Should You Desex Your Dog?
The best age to desex your dog depends on several factors, including breed, size, and lifestyle. Here’s a general guide:
Small & Medium Breeds (Like Cavoodles)
Recommended age: 6 months
Small breeds tend to mature faster than large breeds, so they can be safely desexed earlier than larger dogs. Many vets recommend desexing between 6-12 months.
Large Breeds
Recommended age: 12-24 months
Larger breeds take longer to develop, and early desexing may impact bone and joint health. Some research suggests waiting until after full skeletal maturity (12-24 months) to prevent orthopedic issues.
Males vs. Females
Male dogs can generally be desexed at 6 months. It is best to do it at this age as its before their hormones start to kick in.
Female dogs are often desexed before their first heat cycle (around 6-9 months) to reduce the risk of mammary cancer. However some vets may recommend waiting to desex AFTER their first heat cycle.
It’s always best to discuss the optimal timing with your vet, as each dog is different.
Are There Any Downsides to Desexing?
While desexing has many benefits, there are some factors to consider:
1. Risk of Weight Gain
Desexed dogs may have a slightly lower metabolism, making them prone to weight gain. However, this can be managed with proper diet and exercise.
2. Orthopedic & Growth Concerns
Early desexing (before full growth) may impact joint development, especially in large breeds. This is why waiting until skeletal maturity is sometimes recommended.
3. Hormonal Changes
Hormones play a role in coat quality, growth, and energy levels, so some owners notice minor changes in their dog’s appearance or activity after desexing.
Final Thoughts: Should You Desex Your Dog?
For most pet owners, desexing is highly recommended to protect your dog’s long-term health and temperament.
At Dreamy Cavoodles, we highly encourage desexing.
Not sure when to desex your dog? Speak with your vet to determine the best timing based on your dog’s breed, size, and lifestyle.
Looking for a healthy, well-raised Cavoodle? Visit dreamycavoodles.com.au to learn more about our puppies and responsible breeding practices.