To Spay or not to spay?

When we had our first female dog, we were advised, just as so many owners have been, to have her spayed before her first season. Back then, this was presented as the gold‑standard approach, the “right” thing to do for her health and future. But as new research has emerged and veterinary attitudes have evolved, it’s become clear that this early recommendation wasn’t always the most beneficial option. What once felt like straightforward advice is now far more nuanced, with modern evidence showing that timing, breed, hormones, and long-term well-being all play a much bigger role than we were originally told.

 

Why Spay? The Proven Benefits

• Population Control

Spaying prevents accidental litters and reduces the number of puppies entering shelters. This remains one of the strongest welfare arguments for sterilisation.

• Reduced Risk of Certain Diseases

Traditional spaying (removal of ovaries and uterus) has been shown to prevent pyometra, a life-threatening uterine infection, and reduce the risk of mammary tumours when performed early.

• Behavioural Benefits

Spaying can reduce hormonally driven behaviours such as roaming and signs of heat. However, research shows mixed or limited behavioural benefits in other areas.

 

Why Spaying Is No Longer Routine: The New Research

Recent large-scale studies have revealed important considerations that challenge older blanket recommendations.

• Breed‑Specific Health Risks

A 2024 update to the influential UC Davis research highlights that early spaying may increase orthopaedic disorders (hip dysplasia, cruciate ligament injury) and certain cancers, especially in larger breeds.
Breeds vary widely in vulnerability, making tailored advice essential.

• Joint and Bone Health

Hormones play a crucial role in musculoskeletal development. Removing them too early can interfere with growth plate closure and increase joint disease risk later in life.

• Urinary Incontinence

New VetCompass research (2024) shows that waiting to spay until 7–18 months reduces the risk of early‑onset urinary incontinence by 20% compared with spaying at 3–6 months.

• Overall Health Outcomes

A 2023 study comparing intact, traditionally spayed, and hormone‑sparing sterilisation reported that longer exposure to natural hormones was associated with:

• • Lower odds of general health problems
  • Fewer orthopaedic issues
  • Lower rates of problematic behaviours
  • Increased lifespan

• This is one reason why modern guidance is shifting away from “spay everything early.”

 

Alternatives to Traditional Spaying

As discussions evolve, alternatives are gaining attention.

Ovary‑Sparing Spay (OSS)

This procedure removes the uterus but keeps the ovaries, preserving natural hormones.

Benefits include:

• Improved joint and bone health
• Lower obesity risk
• Fewer endocrine disorders

Risks include:

• Heat behaviours remain
• Continued risk of mammary cancer
• Potential ovarian issues (cysts/tumours)

Hysterectomy‑Only Approaches

Still uncommon but growing, driven by concerns about long-term hormone loss.

 

What Do Leading Veterinary Bodies Say?

RCVS & UK Veterinary Guidance

The UK emphasises case-by-case decisions and acknowledges that neutering carries both benefits and risks. There’s no universal age or recommendation suitable for all dogs.

 

So… Should You Spay Your Dog?

Here’s the most balanced, evidence-backed conclusion:

✔ Spaying is still appropriate for:

• Preventing accidental litters
• Dogs at high risk of pyometra
• Bitches prone to severe behavioural or physical issues during seasons
• Households unable to securely manage an intact dog

✔ Delayed spaying (≥7 months) may be healthier for:

• Medium to giant breeds
• Breeds with known incontinence risk
• Dogs prone to joint conditions

✔ Alternatives like OSS may suit:

• Owners wanting to avoid accidental breeding while preserving hormones
• Dogs whose breeds are at higher risk from early spay/neuter

✔ Case-by-case advice is essential for:

Every dog.
Breed, behaviour, health history, lifestyle, and environment all matter.

There is no single “right” age or method—only the right choice for your dog.

Final Thoughts

As breeders, trainers, and dog lovers sharpen their focus on long-term welfare, it’s clear that old assumptions about spaying are outdated. The goal isn’t simply preventing pregnancies—it’s protecting a dog’s health for the entirety of her life.

Your vet remains the best guide to help weigh your dog’s breed-specific risks, your family lifestyle, and the latest scientific research.