You have probably heard many different stories about why you should desex your dog. Sometimes, the information can be overwhelming and leave you scratching your head wondering- is this a fact or a myth?
We are here to uncover the top 5 myths about desexing your dog so you can choose to desex your furry friends with peace of mind.
Myth 1: Dogs should have one litter before being desexed
A long-running myth is that female dogs should have one litter before being desexed.
There is no evidence to suggest that dogs benefit from having a litter, and in fact having a season (being on heat) or litter increases a female dog's chance of mammary cancer.
There are also no benefits to desexing your dog before a heat cycle or pregnancy. Desexed female dogs will not have heat cycles every 6 months eliminating the likelihood that they will leave blood stains around your house.
A desexed male dog will also be less likely to roam in the search of a female to mate with, causing an unwanted litter of puppies that could end up in a shelter like Animal Welfare League (AWL).
Myth 2: There are no benefits to desexing your dog
In fact, there are health benefits to desexing your dog.
In female dogs, desexing her will eliminate the risk of tumours and cancer of the ovaries and uterus, prevent other medical conditions such as pyometra and reduce the risk of mammary cancer. In male dogs, desexing him will eliminate the risk of testicular cancer, reduce the risk of prostatic disease and reduce the risk of perianal tumours.
Myth 3: Their personality will change
Many pet owners worry the procedure will change their dogs’ personality.
Desexing will not change your pet's basic personality. In fact, positive improvements associated with behaviour such as the reduction in roaming, mounting behaviours and urine marking are often seen.
Myth 4: Desexed pets will gain weight
Desexing will not cause your dog to gain weight. Removing the reproductive organs may cause your dog’s metabolism to slow but ageing also has this effect.
Regardless of whether your dog is desexed or not, it is still important to manage your dog’s diet and exercise regime. A regular routine is key to keeping them slim and healthy.
Myth 5: I can’t possibly desex my male dog as he will feel less of a man
Dogs can understand up to 250 words, interpret human emotions and on average have the mental abilities of a 2-2.5year old human child. However, they will not feel less of a man after being desexed.
Now all of the myths have been debunked, you can have your dog desexed with peace of mind, knowing you’re doing the right thing for them and for the community.
Take the pledge to desex your pet and raise awareness for responsible pet ownership today!
