Dog castration
Planned removal of the testes under general anaesthesia with full monitoring. A same-day procedure — the dog goes home the same day with a pain management and check-up plan.
What it involves
Castration is the surgical removal of both testicles. We perform it under general anaesthesia, through one small incision in front of the scrotum. After the procedure the body stops producing testosterone, which affects hormone-dependent behaviours and eliminates the risk of testicular disease.
For the owner this most often means less territory marking, less tendency to run off after bitches in heat, and a reduction in some aggressive behaviour towards other male dogs. Castration does not change a dog's character or “calm” it in terms of temperament — we say this plainly during the consultation.
At our practice castration is carried out like any planned procedure: according to a written pathway from the pre-anaesthetic assessment (STD-01), through intra-operative monitoring (STD-02), to a written handover of care (STD-06).
When it is used
We recommend castration as an elective procedure in mature dogs when the owner does not plan to breed, and also for medical reasons: prostate disease, testicular tumours, cryptorchidism or perineal hernia.
We decide the age for the procedure individually — in large and giant breeds we usually wait until skeletal growth is complete, while in small dogs the procedure can be done earlier. There is no single “right” time for all dogs.
Indications: symptoms that should prompt a visit
- A dog marks territory in the house and runs away when there is a bitch in heat nearby.
- A dog has difficulty urinating or passing faeces, and the veterinarian suspects an enlarged prostate.
- One or both testicles are enlarged, hard or asymmetrical.
- One of the testicles has never descended into the scrotum (cryptorchidism).
- The dog shows hormone-related aggression towards other male dogs.
- The owner does not plan to breed and wants to rule out unwanted matings.
Conditions for which we use it in particular
Diagnostics beforehand
Before the procedure the dog has a clinical examination and pre-anaesthetic assessment in line with standard STD-01: listening to the heart and lungs, assessment of the mucous membranes, and a blood test (blood count and biochemistry) in our laboratory. On this basis we assign an ASA risk class and choose the anaesthetic protocol.
In older dogs, or those with a heart murmur, we add a cardiology consultation with echocardiography. If either testicle is enlarged, we send it for histopathological examination after the procedure.
How it proceeds
The dog arrives fasted (12 hours without food, water available). After a repeat examination and the signing of consent, we place an IV cannula, give premedication with a painkiller and induce anaesthesia. The patient is intubated and maintained on inhalation anaesthesia.
Throughout the procedure the anaesthetist monitors the ECG, oxygen saturation, capnography, blood pressure and temperature (STD-02). We prepare the surgical field aseptically (STD-05). The procedure itself usually takes 20–40 minutes; the wound is closed with absorbable or skin sutures, depending on the patient.
Recovery takes place in a heated recovery area under observation. Most dogs go home after a few hours, once they are walking steadily and drinking.
Aftercare
At home: a collar or body suit for about 10–14 days, walks on the lead, no jumping or playing with other dogs. Give painkillers according to the schedule (STD-04) — do not shorten the course yourself, even if the dog looks well.
Wound check after 2–3 days, removal of sutures (if any) after 10–14 days. Call if the wound opens, discharges fluid, the scrotum is badly swollen or the dog refuses to eat for more than a day.
Frequently asked questions
Will my dog gain weight after neutering?
Energy requirements fall by about 20–30%. If the portions stay the same, the dog will indeed put on weight. After the procedure we discuss adjusting the amount of food.
Is there an alternative to surgery?
Yes — a hormonal implant that temporarily suppresses testosterone production. It is useful as a “test” before deciding on castration in cases of behavioural problems. It does not treat testicular disease or cryptorchidism.
How long does the whole stay at the practice last?
Usually from morning to early afternoon. We give the exact collection time by phone after recovery.
Will castration calm my dog?
It reduces testosterone-dependent behaviours, but it does not change temperament or replace training. For behavioural problems it is worth combining the procedure with work with a behaviourist.
We manage every case individually. The scope, indications and course described above are indicative; we agree the exact diagnostic and treatment plan during the consultation. This content is for information only and does not replace a veterinary consultation.
Questions about dog castration?
Call us or book a consultation. We will set out the diagnostic and treatment plan in writing, before you decide.