Dog Castration

Castration (neutering) is the surgical removal of a male dog’s testicles.

It’s one of the most common operations we perform and is an important decision for your dog’s health, behaviour, and future wellbeing.

Why Castrate a Male Dog?

1. Preventing Unwanted Litters

One unneutered male can father multiple litters each year, adding to the number of unwanted puppies in rescue centres. Neutering plays an important role in responsible pet ownership.

2. Reducing Unwanted Behaviours

Testosterone can drive certain behaviours in dogs, such as:

• Roaming in search of females in season

• Mounting or humping

• Territorial urine marking

• Aggression towards other male dogs

Neutering can help reduce these behaviours, especially if done before they become established habits.

3. Health Benefits

Castration can:

• Prevent testicular cancer (as the testicles are removed)

• Reduce the risk of prostate disease in later life

• Lower the risk of certain hormone-related conditions, such as perianal adenomas (tumours near the anus)

• Prevent testicular torsion (a painful twisting of the testicle)

---

When Should Dogs Be Neutered?

The ideal timing depends on your dog’s breed, size, and individual development.

• Small to medium breeds: Often neutered from around 6–9 months old

• Large and giant breeds: May benefit from waiting until 12–18 months to allow full skeletal growth

It’s also worth noting that not all behaviour problems are hormone-related, neutering is not a “cure-all” for training issues.

---

Common Myths About Dog Castration

• “It will make my dog lazy.”

  
  

  Energy levels depend on exercise and diet, not just hormones.

• “It will ruin his personality.”

  
  

  Your dog’s loving nature will remain — neutering simply reduces hormone-driven behaviours.

• “It’s unnatural.”

  
  

  In domestic pets, castration prevents disease, injury, and stress caused by hormonal drives.

  
  

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Will neutering stop my dog mounting other dogs?

It can reduce hormone-driven mounting, but some dogs mount out of excitement or habit. Training is also important.

Will he still produce testosterone?

After castration, testosterone levels drop significantly, though it may take a few weeks for hormone levels to settle.

Is recovery painful?

We provide strong pain relief during and after surgery, and most dogs are comfortable at home.

Can I walk my dog after castration?

Yes, but only short, calm lead walks until the wound has healed. Avoid running, jumping, or rough play.

Is the procedure keyhole?

A castration procedure is performed through a small incision, but it isn’t keyhole. We only use a keyhole procedure for a (female) dog spay.

---

Dog castration is a safe, routine procedure that can improve health, reduce unwanted behaviours, and prevent unplanned litters. The right timing and aftercare will help ensure the best outcome for your dog.