The recommended age for desexing dogs has changed over the past decade. Previously, desexing at 6 months was standard, but now the decision is more complex. It’s important to weigh the pros and cons of desexing at different ages, especially when you have a young puppy.
Council Registration Rules for Desexing Age
In 2024, the lifetime registration fee varies based on when you desex your dog:
- Before 6 Months: $75
- After 6 Months: $252
If you plan to desex your dog between 6-18 months for health reasons, you may still qualify for the discounted fee with a vet’s letter. You’ll need to pay the registration fee before the dog is 6 months old to secure this exemption.
Desexing Complexity and Cost
Desexing procedures become more complex and time-intensive with older dogs or female dogs that have had a season. At Pittwater Animal Hospital:
- We recommend desexing dogs under 15kg at 6 months.
- Larger dogs (20kg+) may benefit from waiting until just before 9 months.
- For Dachshunds, delaying desexing up to 2 years may reduce the risk of intervertebral disc disease, though male Dachshunds showing signs of aggression should be desexed earlier.
Our desexing charges increase by about 50% for dogs over 9 months and those that have had a season.
Benefits and Considerations of Desexing Ages
Very Early Desexing (9-15 Weeks)
- Common in shelters and some breeders
- May increase the risk of urinary incontinence in large-breed females
- Pittwater Animal Hospital generally recommends waiting until 6 months for small to medium breeds and longer for larger breeds
Early Desexing (6 Months) – Recommended for Small to Medium Breeds
- A simpler and quicker surgery with shorter recovery time and minimal pain or swelling
- Lower lifetime registration fees – saving about $200
- Reduced risk of certain behaviors:
- Males are less likely to mark territory or show aggression toward humans
- Female dogs desexed before 6 months have a lower risk of mammary tumors
- Potential Health Considerations:
- May slightly increase the risk (5%) of knee ligament injuries in large breeds
- No increase in urinary incontinence risk
Later Desexing (9-18 Months) – Considered for Large Breeds
- Higher desexing cost due to added complexity and aftercare needs
- Slightly lower risk of knee ligament issues (5% reduction for large breeds prone to cruciate disease)
- Potential behavioral impacts:
- May reduce anxiety, but this is anecdotal and varies by dog
- Delayed desexing may lead to more pronounced marking and roaming behaviors in males
- Practical Considerations:
- Daycare and boarding facilities may have restrictions on intact dogs
Why Desexing Your Dog is Important
For Female Dogs:
- Regular heats, with spotting and swelling, will occur once or twice yearly starting around 9 months.
- Increased health risks if not desexed, including:
- Higher chance of mammary tumors and uterine infections, which may require surgery later in life.
- These conditions can be life-threatening, especially if surgery is needed in older dogs.
For Male Dogs:
- Higher risk of prostate and testicular cancer as well as anal tumors.
- Greater likelihood of urine marking, aggression, and roaming behaviors.
- Unneutered dogs can become targets for other dogs at parks.
Behavioral Considerations:
- Unneutered males may display increased aggression toward humans and other dogs.
- Unspayed females can attract unwanted attention at parks and during walks.
A Little History on Desexing Practices
In Australia, early desexing has been the norm since the 1970s when new laws encouraged desexing to reduce roaming and improve public safety. This reduced dog bites and car accidents caused by free-roaming dogs. However, in the UK, where desexing is less common, vets often treat older dogs for mammary tumors, uterine infections, and prostate issues.
What to Expect in Desexed Dogs
Desexed dogs generally:
- Live 25% longer than intact dogs
- Grow slightly taller due to hormonal differences
- Have a greater tendency to gain weight, making it essential for owners to monitor food intake closely
Maintaining a healthy weight through portion control is crucial to your dog’s long-term health. Your veterinarian can provide guidance on an optimal weight range for your pet and tips to maintain it.
Book a Desexing Consultation
If you’re considering desexing your dog, speak with one of our experienced veterinarians to determine the best time for your pet’s health and lifestyle.
