The Canadian Veterinary Medical Association recommends spaying and neutering
Prevent unplanned breeding
The CVMA recommends spaying or neutering pet dogs that are not part of a carefully planned, responsible breeding program. Preventing unplanned litters is an important part of responsible pet ownership and helps address pet overpopulation.
Breeding puppies is a major responsibility. It should be undertaken only by knowledgeable breeders committed to early puppy development, breed-specific health testing, excellent care, and improving the health and welfare of the dogs they breed.
The current Canadian veterinary position
“The Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) strongly recommends that cats and dogs not intended for breeding be spayed or neutered.”
Canadian Veterinary Medical Association, December 11, 2024
Plan the timing
The recommendation is clear; timing can be individual
Ask a licensed veterinarian when the procedure should be performed. Breed, size, sex, age, health, behaviour, lifestyle, and the ability to prevent an accidental mating can all affect the timing discussion. Growth and development may be especially relevant for some large and giant-breed dogs.
Training still matters
Spaying or neutering can help, but it is not a behaviour program
Spaying or neutering can reduce some behaviours influenced by reproductive hormones, including roaming, urine marking, and mounting. Behaviours that have been rehearsed may continue, while fear, reactivity, or aggression can have other causes and should be addressed with humane training and professional guidance.
Prepare for the appointment
Useful questions for your veterinarian
- What timing do you recommend for this dog's breed, size, sex, and health?
- How should we prevent an accidental mating before the procedure?
- What health and behavioural benefits should we expect?
- What recovery and activity restrictions should we plan for?