It’s only natural to help avoid pet overpopulation, especially when you’re a German shepherd pet owner. That’s precisely why neutering or spaying was introduced. But you can’t deny the fact that your dog may suffer the consequences of your decision.
“It’s going to affect their health”. This is a common theory by many researchers. If that’s the case, when should you neuter or spay a German shepherd so they’ll suffer no risks?
We’ve always been told that there’s one perfect time for neutering or spaying a German shepherd. But the reality is, technology is advancing. You can’t always rely on old information. That’s why this article aims to offer you the opportunity to have up-to-date information as to when to neuter or spay a German shepherd, with the current technology in mind.
The best way to start this blog post is by defining what neutering or spaying is.
What is Neutering or Spaying?
Neutering is the removal of the reproductive organ of an animal. This can be either partially or totally to the reproductive organ.
This is commonly done to pets, especially dogs. After all, neutering is an attempt to prevent overpopulation.
While you may think that neutering is done with males, it actually involves both sexes. It can be done to male AND female animals.
However, since this misconception is a bit prevalent, spaying was introduced.
Spaying can be considered as neutering but only done with females. Technically it refers to the removal of ovaries of animals.
While it may be a common practice nowadays, you can’t help but wonder the reason behind the neutering or spaying of a German shepherd.
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Why Neuter or Spay a German Shepherd?
You might not believe it, but there are actually plenty of reasons why you need to neuter or spay a German shepherd.
One of the most common reasons involves overpopulation.
Overpopulation is found to be one of the most significant reasons why German shepherds are euthanized. After all, birth can be laborious and you’ll be surprised how many puppies (and mothers) don’t make it.
This is the number one reason why neutering and spaying were introduced. However, there are other benefits that come from the procedure:
- Spaying a female German shepherd may prevent breast tumors and uterine infections.
- Neutering a male dog can lower the chances of prostate and testicular disorders.
- A spayed female German shepherd will no longer feel the need to attract mates. Actions such as urinating continually and yowling will be prevented.
- Male German shepherds that are neutered will not put effort into going outdoors to search for females.
Of course, other effects come when you neuter or spay a German shepherd, and we can say that it’s not all good. There are risks, too, which leads us to the next topic.
The Best Time to Neuter or Spay a German Shepherd
Many veterinary organizations support neutering or spaying of German shepherds. However, they admit that there are risks in the procedure.
That’s precisely why they try to recommend pet owners the best age to neuter or spay a German shepherd.
Depending on the age of a German shepherd when it was neutered or spayed, they may have higher or fewer chances of developing health issues.
How old should a german shepherd be to spay
Many veterinary researchers suggest that a German shepherd be neutered or spayed if they’re over 6-month old but not more than 1-year of age.
This is so that they will be developed enough to withstand the risks. Plus, statistics prove this theory.
Research shows that German shepherds neutered or spayed before 6 months have higher risks of joint problems. Additionally, dogs 1 year and older that have undergone the procedure have higher risks of cancer.
It is also possible that they will exhibit behavioral issues after the procedure. For example, a male dog’s aggression after neuter will be longer and more extreme than normal
However, there’s no denying that there is no one size fits all answer for the question, “When to neuter or spay a German shepherd?”. Different German shepherds will require a unique time.
Either way, you need to know how you can help your German shepherd in their recovery.
Recovery From Neutering or Spaying
The recovery process after you neuter or spay a German shepherd is the same as with an injury.
You avoid physical activities. You let them rest… and so on.
However, there are pointers to be followed after the neutering or spaying of a German shepherd. It’s important to follow this strictly to help your dog heal most properly.
- Prepare a quiet place for your dog to rest, preferably inside the house. Restrict their interactions with other dogs as it may encourage physical activity.
- A neutered/spayed German shepherd needs at least a month of no activity. Putting physical strain during recovery may result in complications.
- Monitor your German shepherd’s opening from the surgery. Check for unusual characteristics such as swelling, bruising, and more. If you notice an abnormality, ensure that you reach out to your vet.
- German shepherds are active dogs and can sometimes be unpredictable. Prevent your dog from hurting himself/herself by giving them a cone or collar.
- It’s important to find out when to take the cone off your dog after neutering/spaying so you won’t be stripping your pet off their freedom. The optimal number of days before you have to remove the cone is 5-8 days. However, it’s recommended that you wait until the stitches are removed.
- A German shepherd that exhibits vomiting, decreased appetite, and diarrhea has a high chance of having complications. In this case, contact your vet immediately.
If you can follow these guidelines, you can be sure that there will be no further complications to your German shepherd.
Conclusion
When you neuter or spay a German shepherd, the first thing that comes to mind is that the procedure is a bit harsh. That might be true, but in reality, you’re helping your dog and many others.
You’re improving your German shepherd’s health while preventing overpopulation at the same time. It’s an absolute win for a pet lover. However, there will be risks. This is where the question comes in, “When should you neuter or spay a German shepherd?”
By reading this blog post, you learned the answer to this question and many more. Now, you can be guaranteed a healthy neutered or spayed German shepherd.
