Don't Want To Neuter Your Dog? 4 Things That May Change Your Mind
If you're thinking about not having your dog neutered, you're not alone. According to the ASPCA, nearly 90 percent of dogs that end up in shelters have not been neutered. Keep in mind that this number only reflects dogs that end up in shelters, not those who live out their life with their owners. This is a very important distinction as you will see later. So why don't people get their dogs neutered? The reasons vary, but most people just don't understand the importance or maybe they think it's cruel. Others may want to breed their dog. If you don't want to neuter your dog, for any reason, consider the following:
Neutering Makes Training Easier
Intact males can have dominance and aggression issues. They may also have shorter attention spans. All of these issues can make training more difficult. When people can't train their dogs properly, they often put their dogs outside or drop them off at a local shelter. To prevent aggression and personality issues, have your dog neutered before his hormones kick in. Also, be sure to properly socialize your pet.
It Keeps Your Dog from Running Away
Males who have an urge to breed always want to breed, especially when there is a female in heat nearby. Intact males are more likely to run away from home to in order to mate. Remember the statistic from above? This may be why shelters see more intact males than neutered ones. Intact males are also aggressive towards each other because they're fighting for the opportunity to mate. Many dogs have been lost after running away after a fight.
Neutering Reduces Certain Cancers
Neutering reduces the occurrence of certain diseases, such as prostate and testicular cancer. Other types of prostate issues, such as an enlarged prostate, can also be avoided simply by neutering your dog.
Neutered Dogs Live Longer
Studies have shown that neutered males live up to 18 percent longer than their intact counterparts. This is due largely to the fact that neutered males can avoid all of the complications and problems that are mentioned above. For example, many dogs get hit by cars when they've ran away from home.
As you can see, there are many good reasons to neuter your male dog and there aren't really any good reasons not to neuter him. If you want your dog to live a long, happy, healthy life at home, get him fixed before he starts producing puberty hormones. For more information, contact local professionals like Phoenixville Animal Hospital - R B Wolstenholme DVM.
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