Puppy Year One / Spay and neuter timing for puppies
Spay and neuter timing for puppies
Quick answerAAHA’s guidelines suggest neutering small breeds at about 6 months and waiting until growth stops for large breeds, and spaying small breeds before the first heat (5 to 6 months) while large breeds wait until growth stops. Your vet makes the call for your dog.
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AAHA 2019 proposed ages
| Small breeds (under 45 lb adult) | Large breeds (45 lb or more adult) | |
|---|---|---|
| Castration (male) | 6 months | After growth stops, about 9 to 15 months |
| Spay (female) | Before first heat, about 5 to 6 months | After growth stops, about 5 to 15 months |
Why there is a range
AAHA says to use clinical judgment and owner education to balance the benefit of earlier spay (less mammary tumor risk and no unwanted litters) against later timing (less risk of orthopedic disease, some cancers and urinary incontinence).
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Questions for your vet
- What is my puppy’s projected adult weight?
- What are the risks and benefits for this breed?
- What do I do about heat cycles in the meantime?
- What is aftercare, and what warning signs should I watch for?
Frequently asked questions
When should I spay or neuter my puppy?
AAHA’s 2019 guidelines give breed-size ranges. Small breeds about 5 to 6 months for spay and 6 months for neuter; large breeds after growth stops. Ask your vet.
Sources
- AAHA 2019 Canine Life Stage Guidelines: proposed ages for sterilization https://www.aaha.org/resources/life-stage-canine-2019/spay-and-neuter-timing/
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