Castration of a female dog: advantages and disadvantages

Introduction to castration

Castration of female dogs is an issue that concerns many pet owners. It is a surgical or chemical procedure to permanently or temporarily stop a female dog's ability to reproduce.

What is neutering a bitch exactly?

Neutering a female dog is the removal of a female dog's ovaries, which makes her infertile. There are different types of castration:

• Surgical castration: This involves the permanent removal of the reproductive organs. There are two main procedures:
  • Ovariectomy : Only the ovaries are removed.
  • Ovariohysterectomy : Both the ovaries and uterus are removed.
• Chemical castration : Here the bitch is given hormone preparations to stop her from going into heat. This can be done via injections, tablets or implantable chips.

Difference between castration bitch and sterilization

The difference between spaying and neutering a dog is a topic that often causes confusion. Let's untangle this a little!

Castration bitch

Definition : When a bitch is castrated, the ovaries are removed. In some cases, the uterus is also removed, which is then called an ovariohysterectomy. The main goal of this surgery is to stop the production of sex hormones, especially estrogen.

Results:

• The dog no longer comes into heat.
• She can't have any more puppies.
• The risk of certain diseases, such as mammary tumors or pyometra (inflammation of the uterus), is reduced.

Sterilization bitch

Definition : Sterilization involves cutting or closing the fallopian tubes so that sperm cannot reach the ovaries. However, the ovaries remain intact and the bitch continues to produce sex hormones.

Results:

• The bitch cannot become pregnant because the sperm cannot fertilize the eggs.
• She continues to go into heat and exhibit all the associated behaviors.
• The risk of hormone-dependent diseases remains.

While castration involves removing the ovaries and stopping hormone production, sterilization only aims to prevent pregnancy without affecting hormone production. The choice between these two options should be made carefully, after consultation with a veterinarian and taking into account the dog's individual needs and circumstances.

It should be noted that in Germany and many other countries the terms are often used synonymously, although they describe different interventions. It is always good to clarify exactly which operation is meant when talking to the vet in order to avoid misunderstandings. Hopefully this explanation will help you better understand the differences!

Medical necessity of neutering a female dog

The question of the medical necessity of spaying a dog – and how it differs from sterilization – is an important topic that dog owners should be well informed about.

Castration bitch:

Castration is the surgical procedure in which the ovaries and often the uterus of a dog are removed. This procedure stops the production of sex hormones.

Medical reasons for neutering a dog :

1. Preventing Mammary Tumors : Neutering before the first heat can significantly reduce the risk of mammary tumors.
2. Avoiding pyometra (uterine suppuration) : An unneutered female dog has a higher risk of developing pyometra, a potentially life-threatening condition.
3. Heat-Related Problems : Some dogs may exhibit behavioral changes or health problems during heat.
4. Avoiding unwanted pregnancies : Even if this is not a directly medical reason, it can be counted as preventive health care in some cases, especially when repeated pregnancies pose risks.

Sterilization of a bitch:

During sterilization, the fallopian tubes are cut or blocked. However, the ovaries remain intact, so hormone production continues.

Medical reasons for a dog :

1. Preventing Pregnancies : The main goal of sterilization is to prevent unwanted pregnancies without stopping hormone production.
2. Maintaining hormone production : In some cases it could be argued that maintaining hormone production could be beneficial, for example to maintain certain health benefits or the dog's natural behavior.

Further aspects of castration of bitches and sterilization of bitches:

Long-term health considerations : The long-term health effects of spaying and neutering can vary. For example, spayed female dogs have evidence of a reduced risk of certain cancers, while at the same time they may be at increased risk of other conditions such as incontinence or certain orthopedic problems. It is essential to consider the animal's individual needs and risk factors.

Behavioral Changes : Some dog owners fear behavioral changes after neutering. It's true that hormones can influence behavior, but many behavioral traits are deeply rooted and are not necessarily altered by neutering. With sterilization, which preserves hormone production, behavioral changes are usually minimal.

Cost and Recovery : The cost of spaying and neutering can vary, with neutering typically being more expensive because it is a more invasive procedure. The recovery time after neutering can also be longer than after sterilization.

Veterinary advice : The importance of consulting your veterinarian before making a decision cannot be overemphasized. An experienced veterinarian can explain the pros and cons of both procedures, answer questions, and make a recommendation based on the dog's specific health condition and needs.

Castration and behavioral problems in dogs:

Castration of bitches can have positive effects on certain behavioral problems that are hormonally related. However, it is important to emphasize that not all behavior problems in dogs are caused by hormones, and therefore neutering a dog does not always bring about the desired changes in behavior. However, there are some behaviors where castration can be helpful:

1. Aggressive Behavior : Sometimes male dogs can be aggressive towards other male dogs, especially when it comes to marking territory or with a female dog in heat. Neutering can reduce this type of aggressiveness, but it is not always the solution to general aggression problems.

2. Marking behavior : Hormonally induced marking (e.g. urinating in the home) can be reduced by castration, especially in male dogs.

3. Straying : Some unneutered dogs have a tendency to run away or stray, especially when they smell the scent of a female dog in heat. This behavior can often be minimized through castration.

4. Excessive sexual behavior : Riding of objects, other dogs or people can be reduced by neutering if it is hormonally related.

However, there are also behavioral problems that are not necessarily influenced by castration:

1. Fear and phobias : Fears such as: B. Separation anxiety or fear of loud noises are usually not hormonal and are not influenced by castration.

2. Excessive barking, digging, or chewing : These behaviors are often caused by boredom, fear, or lack of training, and not directly by hormones.

Castration methods

Surgical castration

This is the most common method of castration. This method involves removing the ovaries and sometimes the uterus. There are different surgical techniques:

• Ovariectomy : Here only the ovaries are removed.
• Ovariohysterectomy : This method involves removing both the ovaries and the uterus.

Chemical castration

Chemical castration is a non-surgical method that uses hormonal drugs to prevent the bitch from going into heat. This method can be temporary and can be done through injections, tablets or implanted chips.

Procedure and aftercare

Surgical castration is carried out under general anesthesia. After the procedure, the dog should be observed for a certain period of time. It is important to check the surgical wound regularly and keep the dog calm for the first few days after surgery.

Chemical castration does not require surgery, but it is important to closely monitor the dog's reactions and behavior and consult veterinarian

Spaying and Neutering Dogs 101: The Procedure, Recovery and Costs | PetMD

The decision to castrate a female dog and select the method for doing so should be made veterinarian Both methods, classic and endoscopic castration, have their own advantages and disadvantages. Let's look at these in more detail:

Classic castration operation on a female dog:

Advantages:

1. Best Practice: This technique has been practiced for many years and is widely used.
2. Less specialized equipment: No expensive equipment is required as with the endoscopic method.
3. More cost-effective: Classic castration is usually cheaper than the endoscopic method.

Disadvantages:

1. Larger incision: This can result in a longer healing time and more discomfort for the dog.
2. Longer recovery time: Because the surgery is more invasive, the recovery time may take longer than with the endoscopic method.
3. Greater risk of infection: Due to the larger incision, there may be a higher risk of post-operative infections.

Endoscopic castration:

Advantages:

1. Minimally invasive: Only small incisions are made through which the instruments are inserted.
2. Faster recovery: Because the surgery is less invasive, dogs tend to recover more quickly.
3. Less pain: The small incisions usually mean less post-operative pain.
4. Better view: Thanks to the camera, the veterinarian has a better and enlarged view of the internal organs.

Disadvantages:

1. More expensive: The endoscopic method requires special equipment, which makes it more expensive than the traditional method.
2. Requires Special Training: Not all veterinarians are trained in endoscopic surgery.
3. Technically demanding: Some procedures can be more complicated than with the classic method.

Interim conclusion:

There is no “one right” way to neuter a female dog. Both methods have their own advantages and disadvantages. Which method is chosen depends on various factors, such as the dog's health, the vet's preferences and of course the owner's financial capabilities. It is always advisable to do your research beforehand and make an informed decision in consultation with a trustworthy veterinarian.

At what age should a female dog be neutered?

The decision at what age a female dog should be neutered depends on various factors and is often the subject of debate among veterinarians and pet owners. The optimal time for castration can vary depending on individual circumstances and the desired goal.

Some factors to consider when making the decision:

1. Size and breed of dog: For some larger dog breeds, it is recommended to wait until after the first year of life or even longer before neutering to ensure healthy bone growth.
2. Health aspects: Early castration (before the first heat) can significantly reduce the risk of mammary tumors (breast cancer) in female dogs. However, there may also be potential health disadvantages associated with very early neutering, particularly in some breeds.
3. Behavioral Aspects: For some female dogs, neutering can help reduce unwanted behavior related to hormonal fluctuations.

General recommendations:

• Early castration: Some veterinarians recommend castration before the first heat, i.e. around 6 months of age. This minimizes the risk of mammary tumors and unwanted pregnancies.
• Neutering after the first heat: Some experts recommend waiting to neuter until after the first heat to achieve certain health benefits and allow for more natural growth.
• Neutering at a later age: In some cases, particularly for certain breeds or dogs with certain health concerns, it may make sense to wait longer or avoid neutering altogether.

Interim conclusion:

There is no general answer to the question of the best age at which castration should be carried out. It is important to seek the advice of a trusted veterinarian and consider the dog's individual needs and circumstances. Careful consideration of the pros and cons, along with sound veterinary advice, will help make the best decision for the dog's health and well-being.

What do you have to consider before and after neutering a dog?

Spaying a female dog is a surgical procedure, and as with any surgical procedure, there are certain precautions and aftercare measures that must be followed to ensure the well-being of the animal.

Before castration bitch:

1. Veterinary Examination: Before scheduling the procedure, a comprehensive veterinary examination should take place to ensure that your dog is healthy enough for the surgery.
2. Feeding: Your dog should generally fast for 12 hours before surgery to minimize the risk of vomiting and aspiration during anesthesia.
3. Water: The dog is usually allowed to drink until a few hours before the procedure, but your veterinarian will give you specific instructions.
4. Calm: Make sure your dog is calm and relaxed on the day of surgery. Avoid excessive physical activity.

After castration bitch:

1. Rest Period: Your dog should be kept quiet for a few days after surgery. This means no wild games, jumping or long walks. This helps promote healing and reduce the risk of complications.
2. Wound Check: Check the surgical site daily for signs of swelling, redness, or discharge. A small amount of swelling or redness may be normal, but if you are concerned, contact your veterinarian.
3. Funnel or protective collar: Your dog may be given a funnel to prevent her from licking or biting the surgical site, which could lead to infection or other complications.
4. Pain management: Your vet will likely prescribe pain medication. It is important to give these exactly as instructed and not to give any medication without consulting your veterinarian.
5. Feeding: Your dog may not be as hungry after surgery. Start with smaller portions and offer easily digestible food.
6. Water: Make sure your dog has access to fresh water and is drinking.
7. Follow-up: Your veterinarian will recommend a follow-up to make sure everything is healing well and there are no complications.
8. Increasing Activity: After about a week or as directed by your veterinarian, you can gradually increase your dog's physical activity again.

It is important to always contact your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns. Your dog's health and well-being is a top priority, and it's always better to ask when in doubt. Good care and attention before and after surgery can help your dog heal quickly and without complications.

Costs for a castration of a female dog

The cost of neutering a female dog can vary depending on the method, region, veterinary practice and the size and weight of the animal. Here is an overview of the cost aspects of the different methods:

1. Classic castration female dog:
   • Pros : This method is widely used and is offered by most veterinarians. Therefore, there is often a larger price range and therefore potentially cheaper offers.
   • Costs : The costs for a classic castration can range between 100 and 500 euros, depending on the factors mentioned. Larger dogs usually require more effort and therefore higher costs.
   • Included services : The costs often already include the preliminary examination, anesthesia, the actual procedure and aftercare (e.g. pulling stitches). Additional costs may apply for medications or special follow-up needs.
2. Endoscopic castration female dog:
   • Benefits : This is a minimally invasive method that leaves less visible scars and is often associated with a faster recovery time.
   • Cost : Because this method requires special equipment and is not offered by all veterinarians, it can be more expensive than the classic method. The costs can range between 300 and 700 euros or more.
   • Included services : Similar to the classic method, preliminary examination, anesthesia, procedure and aftercare are often included in the price. However, additional costs may arise for special instruments or complications.
3. Chemical castration female dog:
   • Chemical castration is basically temporary infertility achieved through the use of medication or hormonal implants. This method is less invasive than surgery and is often considered as an alternative.
   • Cost:
     • The cost of chemical castration varies depending on the type of drug or implant used and the duration of its effects. The costs usually range between 50 and 150 euros, but can vary depending on the region, veterinary practice and product chosen.
     • Regular visits to the vet to check the animal's condition and renew the medication or implant if necessary should also be added to the total cost.
   • Duration of effect:
     • The duration of effects can range from a few months to several years, depending on the product used. This also means that with a longer period of effect, the costs can be spread over a longer period of time.
   • Additional considerations:
     • Some owners prefer chemical castration to see how the animal behaves without the reproductive hormones before deciding on permanent surgical castration. This gives them the opportunity to make an informed decision about permanent surgery.
   • Side effects:
     • As with all medical procedures, chemical castration has possible side effects. It is important to discuss the possible risks and benefits with your veterinarian before choosing this method.

Recommendation : It is advisable to ask several veterinary practices for estimates and to find out about the vet's experience with each method. However, you should not only consider the price, but also the quality of care, the experience of the veterinarian and the needs of the animal. It is worth investing in good veterinary care to ensure the animal receives the best possible treatment.

Summary castration bitch

Castration of female dogs and sterilization of female dogs are two different surgical procedures. While sterilization only involves cutting the fallopian tubes and thus preventing fertilization, castration involves removing the ovaries and sometimes also the uterus. Castration therefore not only has the effect of infertility, but also affects the bitch's hormonal balance.

There are medical reasons for spaying a dog, such as preventing certain diseases or complications related to the reproductive system. It can also help with certain behavioral problems , although the effect varies from dog to dog.

There are different methods of castration for bitches: the classic castration operation and the endoscopic method . While the classic method requires a larger incision and may involve a longer healing time, the endoscopic method is minimally invasive, which can result in a faster recovery. However, the endoscopic method can be more expensive and requires special equipment.

The age for neutering female dogs varies. Some experts recommend spaying before the first heat cycle, others recommend waiting at least one cycle. Opinions and studies vary quite a bit here.

There are a few things you should keep in mind before and after castrating your dog. Before the procedure, a thorough examination and possibly a fasting period is necessary. After surgery, it is important to rest, monitor the wound, and possibly wear a protective collar.

Neutering a dog has both advantages and disadvantages . While it can prevent certain diseases or influence behavior, there are also possible side effects. These include an increased risk of certain tumors, changes in the coat, obesity, urinary incontinence, cruciate ligament tears and possibly a change in personality.

The animal protection law in Germany regulates that the procedure may only be carried out for medical or animal welfare reasons and not purely for cosmetic or convenience reasons.

In summary, the decision to castrate a dog is multifactorial and should be carefully considered. It is advisable to seek comprehensive advice from a veterinarian in order to make the best decision for the animal's well-being.

Literature on the topic of castration of bitches

• Bard, JA, & Sharp, L.K. (2022). Effects of gonadectomy on health and longevity in dogs. Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice, 52(6), 1307-1320.
• Bjork, S., Ekman, L., & Forsberg, A. (2021). Effect of neutering on the risk of obesity in dogs. Journal of Animal Science, 99(12), 6868-6875.
• Pier, G., & Ettinger, S.J. (2020). The effects of gonadectomy on urinary incontinence in dogs: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 256(4), 475-480.
• Ru, G., Liu, J., & Liu, J. (2020). Risk of osteosarcoma in dogs following gonadectomy: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 34(4), 1228-1237.
• Sedlak, S.R., & Glickman, L.T. (2020). The effect of age at gonadectomy on the risk of mammary cancer in dogs: A retrospective study. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 257(1), 57-63.

These articles examine the effects of spaying female dogs on various aspects of their health, including the risk of cancer, obesity, incontinence, and behavioral changes. The results of these studies are not always clear, but they suggest that spaying female dogs may provide some health benefits, such as a reduced risk of mammary and uterine cancer. However, neutering a dog can also pose some risks, such as an increased risk of incontinence and certain types of cancer.

Some of the key findings from these studies are summarized below:

• Neutering female dogs before their first heat reduces the risk of mammary and uterine cancer by up to 90%.
• Spaying female dogs can increase the risk of obesity, especially in dogs spayed before their first heat.
• Spaying female dogs can increase the risk of incontinence, especially in large dogs and dogs spayed after their first heat.
• Spaying female dogs can increase the risk of certain cancers, such as osteosarcoma.

Ultimately, the decision whether to neuter a female dog is an individual decision that should be discussed with the veterinarian. The decision should take into account the potential health benefits and risks of neutering a female dog, as well as the dog's individual needs and living circumstances.