Delay Her Spay – 2025 Update!

Don’t be in a rush to spay or neuter your dog. Yes, wait to spay. Hold off on the neuter. The conventional wisdom around early sterilization is being challenged by mounting scientific evidence. (Find links to science and resources at the end of the post.)

The Current Standard vs. New Research

Spaying or neutering your dog is considered by most dog owners to be the hallmark of responsible dog ownership. No one wants their dog bringing unwanted puppies into the world. Shelters and rescue groups usually require dogs they offer for adoption to be spayed or neutered before they go to their new homes. This means many puppies are spayed or neutered at the tender age of 8 weeks.

While this practice guarantees they never reproduce, is this the right thing to do for the future health of these puppies and dogs?

Much research has been published in recent years exposing the benefits of delaying spaying and neutering, or performing alternative sterilization techniques that allow dogs to keep their hormones. Recent studies, including research published in the journal Canine Genetics and Epidemiology, continue to show us compelling reasons to delay spaying and neutering until our dogs are adults.

Responsible Ownership Without Early Surgery

Before anyone gets concerned, this approach does not promote indiscriminate breeding. Whether a dog has his or her “parts” and whether he or she is bred are separate questions entirely.

It is not difficult to prevent your female dog from becoming pregnant, or your male dog from roaming the streets and impregnating females. It’s as simple as:

• Keeping track of where your dog is at all times
• For female dogs in season (twice per year), paying extra attention to ensure no intact male dogs are with her when she is fertile (an average of 5-7 days over a heat cycle)
• Proper supervision and containment

The Science Behind Delayed Sterilization

Hormonal Development and Health

Sex hormones play crucial roles beyond reproduction. These hormones are essential for:

• Proper bone development: Growth plates close naturally with hormonal signals
• Joint health: Hormones influence cartilage and ligament development
• Muscle development: Affects overall body composition and strength
• Behavioral maturation: Natural hormones contribute to proper social development

Research Findings

Recent veterinary research has identified several health concerns associated with early spaying and neutering:

Orthopedic Issues:

• Increased risk of cranial cruciate ligament tears
• Higher rates of hip dysplasia
• Delayed growth plate closure leading to abnormal bone development

Cancer Risks:

• Increased incidence of certain cancers, including osteosarcoma and hemangiosarcoma
• Higher rates of mast cell tumors in some breeds

Behavioral Concerns:

• Increased anxiety and fearfulness
• Higher rates of noise phobias
• Potential for increased aggression in some cases

Breed-Specific Considerations

Different breeds have varying risks and benefits when it comes to spay/neuter timing:

Large and Giant Breeds:

• Benefit most from delayed sterilization
• Should typically wait until 18-24 months of age
• Growth plates close later than in small breeds

Small Breeds:

• May have fewer orthopedic concerns with early spaying/neutering
• Can often be safely sterilized at 6-12 months

Breed-Specific Cancer Risks:

• Golden Retrievers show significant benefits from delayed procedures
• Some breeds have higher risks for reproductive cancers that may favor earlier spaying

Alternative Sterilization Options

Modern veterinary medicine offers alternatives to traditional spay/neuter:

Ovary-Sparing Spay (Hysterectomy):

• Removes uterus but leaves ovaries
• Eliminates pregnancy risk while preserving hormones
• Prevents pyometra (uterine infection)

Vasectomy for Males:

• Prevents reproduction while maintaining hormone production
• Less invasive than traditional neutering
• Preserves natural behavior and development

Making the Right Decision for Your Dog

Consider these factors when deciding on spay/neuter timing:

Individual Risk Assessment

• Your dog’s breed and size
• Your ability to manage an intact dog responsibly
• Your dog’s living situation and environment
• Family history of reproductive cancers

Veterinary Consultation

Work with a veterinarian who stays current with spay/neuter research. Many progressive veterinarians now recommend:

• Waiting until after the first heat cycle for females
• Delaying neutering until 12-24 months for males
• Considering alternative procedures

Responsible Management

If you choose to delay sterilization:

• Ensure secure fencing and supervision
• Monitor female dogs closely during heat cycles
• Consider doggy daycare and boarding policies
• Be prepared for potential behavioral changes

The Bottom Line

The traditional approach of early spaying and neutering served an important purpose in reducing pet overpopulation. However, as our understanding of canine physiology advances, we’re learning that a one-size-fits-all approach may not be best for individual dogs’ health and wellbeing.

Delaying spay or neuter surgery until your dog reaches skeletal and sexual maturity can provide significant health benefits, particularly for larger breeds. With proper management and responsible ownership, you can prevent unwanted breeding while allowing your dog to benefit from natural hormone production during crucial developmental periods.

The decision should always be made in consultation with your veterinarian, taking into account your dog’s breed, size, health status, and your ability to manage an intact dog responsibly. The goal is the same as it’s always been: ensuring the health and wellbeing of our beloved canine companions while preventing pet overpopulation.

Remember, being a responsible dog owner means making informed decisions based on current scientific evidence, not just following outdated conventional wisdom. Your dog’s long-term health may thank you for taking the time to consider all options.

Research and Resources:

The Parsemus Foundation – scientific info and veterinarian directory

Dr. Chris Zink – Summary article with references

WSAVA Guidelines – World Small Animal Veterinary Association Exectie Summary and full guidelines