What Is Castration (Neutering)?
Castration, commonly called neutering in males, is the surgical removal of the testes. It permanently eliminates the production of testosterone and sperm. Castration prevents unwanted reproduction, eliminates certain testicular and prostate conditions, and reduces testosterone-driven behaviours such as roaming, urine marking, and same-sex aggression.
Understanding Castration (Neutering)
The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia and typically takes 15–30 minutes. Recovery is usually straightforward: most dogs are active within 24 hours and fully healed within 10–14 days. In cats, the procedure is even simpler and recovery faster.
Health benefits of castration include: complete elimination of testicular cancer (a leading cancer in intact male dogs), significantly reduced risk of prostate enlargement (benign prostatic hyperplasia), elimination of certain hormone-driven infections, and reduced risk of perineal hernias. It does not protect against all cancers — some studies suggest increased rates of certain other cancers in large breeds when neutered early.
The timing debate is more nuanced for large and giant breeds than for smaller dogs. Research — particularly from studies on Labrador Retrievers and Golden Retrievers — suggests that neutering before 12–18 months in large breeds may increase risk of certain orthopaedic conditions and some cancers. Many veterinarians now recommend delaying neutering in large breeds or discussing the individual dog's situation rather than applying a blanket age policy.