Desexing Dogs and Puppies

What is desexing?

When a dog is surgically desexed, their reproductive system is removed while they are under a general anaesthetic. Desexing of females (also known as spaying, or an ovariohysterectomy) involves removing the ovaries and uterus. Desexing of males (also known as castration or neutering), involves the removal of both testicles.

The benefits of desexing your dog

Desexing offers many health, behavioural and lifestyle benefits for both male and female dogs. Whether you’re looking to prevent unwanted litters or support your dog’s long-term wellbeing, the procedure plays an important role in responsible pet care.

Health benefits for female dogs (spaying)

Desexing female dogs significantly reduces the risk of serious reproductive health issues. It prevents unwanted pregnancies and removes the risk of uterine infections (pyometra), which can be life-threatening. It also eliminates the chance of ovarian cancer and significantly lowers the risk of mammary tumours, especially when the procedure is done before the first heat. It automatically stops their cycle and the associated bleeding and unwanted attention from male dogs that result in pregnancy.

Health benefits for male dogs (neutering)

For male dogs, desexing helps prevent testicular cancer and reduces the risk of prostate disease. It can also protect against hernias and some perianal tumours. These medical benefits contribute to a longer, healthier life and fewer unplanned veterinary expenses. In addition, male urine can smell particularly strong and pungent, and desexing usually prevents this unpleasant odour.

Behavioural improvements

Desexing may help reduce behaviours driven by hormones, including aggression, mounting, territory marking, and roaming. Male dogs often become less fixated on seeking out females in heat, reducing the risk of injury or getting lost. In female dogs, desexing eliminates heat cycles, which can sometimes cause restlessness and unwanted attention from male dogs.

Environmental and social benefits

Desexing helps reduce pet overpopulation and the number of unwanted puppies that may end up in shelters. It’s a proactive step that supports the wider pet community while promoting a safer and calmer home environment.

Greencross Vets highly recommends that you have your dog desexed. This will provide your dog with many health benefits and also prevent more unplanned puppies from ending up in animal shelters. While it is not a legal offence in most Australian states, in the ACT and SA, it is mandatory for you to desex your dog by the time it is 6 months old.

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At what age should my dog be desexed?

The right age for desexing your dog can vary depending on their breed and size. Historically, the recommended age for desexing a dog is six months. However, at Greencross Vets we know that each of our patients is unique. Our veterinary team will take into consideration everything that’s special about your dog before giving any recommendations.

What you should know about surgery at Greencross Vets

The goal of any surgery at Greencross Vets is to minimise anxiety for your pet, perform a safe procedure, and eliminate pain during and after surgery. With this in mind, here are a few things you should know about surgery at Greencross Vets…

• pre-anaesthetic test – a blood test will be performed to ensure kidney, liver, blood cells, and electrolytes are within the reference ranges
• fluid therapy – intravenous fluids are given to support blood pressure and organ function
• pain relief – provided before and during surgery, and as take-home medication
• gas anaesthesia – provided via a special tube placed into the airway
• sterile surgery – like human hospitals, we maintain a sterile operating theatre
• monitoring – our dedicated nursing team monitor your pet before, during and after surgery

Microchipping

Apart from in the Northern Territory, microchipping is legally required in Australia. This is a non-invasive, safe way of identifying your dog for life should they ever become lost. Now is a great time to consider microchipping (if not done already), since your dog is already under a general anaesthetic.

Your day

We are often asked whether or not a pet parent should stay at home to care for a pet after surgery. Generally, pets make a speedy recovery after routine procedures, so staying at home with them is not necessary (as long as they have somewhere warm, comfortable, and clean to rest). However, if you are considering making special plans to be with your pet, we suggest you take the day after surgery off rather than the day of surgery.

Your pet’s day

Pre-surgery

After dinner on the night before surgery, remember to withhold all food from your dog. Having an empty stomach when they are anaesthetised reduces the risk that your dog will vomit and aspirate this into their lungs. Please ensure water is present until they arrive at the clinic.

At the vet

Once your pet has been admitted to our ward, we will perform a health check, take some blood for the pre-anaesthetic blood test, and administer a sedative to help your pet relax. After surgery, your pet will recover in a warm, comfortable and quiet environment. Your pet will be treated as if they are our own. Not only will our veterinary nurse continue to monitor them throughout the recovery process, they will also give your pet the attention (and affection) they deserve.

Post-operative care for desexed dogs

After your dog’s desexing procedure, proper aftercare is essential to ensure a smooth and comfortable recovery. Most dogs recover quickly, but it’s important to follow your vet’s advice to avoid complications and support healing.

Limit your dog’s physical activity for at least 10–14 days, keeping them calm and indoors where possible. Prevent them from licking or biting their wound — a cone (Elizabethan collar) may be recommended to protect the surgical site. You’ll also need to monitor the incision daily for signs of infection, such as swelling, redness or discharge, and follow any medication or pain relief schedules provided by your Greencross Vet.

For detailed instructions and tips, visit our Dog & Cat Desexing Aftercare Guide.

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