caring for your house cat

Are you confused about whether you should have your new puppy spayed or neutered? If you are, you should know that your pet will be much safer if you have the procedure done. Your pet may experience some mild discomfort immediately following the procedure. However, the benefits far outweigh the temporary discomfort. Here are three important reasons why you need to have your puppy spayed or neutered.

Increases the Lifespan

Dogs can get cancer too. They're susceptible to some of the same reproductive cancers as their human counterparts. Having your puppy spayed or neutered can prevent mammary, ovarian, and testicular cancers. Studies have shown that spaying or neutering your dog can help them live longer. In fact, one study found that sterilized dogs live about 18% longer than dogs that have not been sterilized. You can increase your dogs' lifespan and help them live a healthier life by having them spayed or neutered.

Reduces Need to Roam

Unsterilized dogs will roam to look for reproductive partners. Whether they have to dig under the fence or jump over it, dogs will find a way out of the yard if they smell a potential partner in the area. Unfortunately, when dogs escape from their yards, they run the risk of being struck by cars, being injured in dog fights or ending up in an animal shelter. Sadly, once dogs end up in the animal shelter, they run the risk of being euthanized if not claimed quickly enough. Roughly 1.2 million dogs are euthanized in the United States each year. You can reduce your dogs' desire to roam by having it spayed or neutered while it's young.

Reduces Aggression

Male dogs tend to become aggressive when females are present. They do this as a way of protecting their reproductive territory. Neutering reduces aggressive behavior in male dogs. Spaying your female dogs can also decrease aggressive behavior. It's important to note that spaying and neutering your dog will not stop aggressive behavior if there are other issues causing the aggression. Be sure to talk to your veterinarian if the aggressive behavior continues after you have your dog spayed or neutered.

You want your dog to be safe and healthy. The information provided above will help you understand the importance of having your dog spayed or neutered. If you have further questions, be sure to talk to your veterinarian at your local spay and neuter clinic like Fischer Animal Hospital.