Question

I have a one-year-old male chocolate lab who is not neutered. Could you tell me the advantages of neutering? Is it a painful procedure?

Answer

Modern medicine allows us to do most all surgical procedures without pain. Dogs can be given pre-surgery pain relievers as well as pain medication during the procedure. Take-home medications to keep your dog comfortable are also available.

There are many behavior benefits associated with neutering. Neutered male dogs are less likely to roam and thereby less likely to be hit by a car. Neutering also decreases a dog’s desire to show aggression or dominance to other male dogs or people.

Health benefits of neutering include a reduction in the incidence of testicular disease and prostate cancer.

If you have a family and wish your dog to be your family pet, the best thing in terms of your dog’s health and behavior is to have him neutered.

For more information, see the Frequently Asked Question, Should I Have My Dog Spayed?

This question was answered by Dr. Pam Nichols Epperson, hospital director of Animal Care Center in West Bountiful, Utah.