If you never get your dog spayed, she will be at risk for several health problems.
Health Risks
- Uterine infections (pyometra): This is a serious and potentially fatal infection of the uterus. It can cause fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, and abdominal swelling.
- Mammary tumors: Female dogs that are not spayed are at a much higher risk of developing mammary tumors, some of which can be cancerous.
- Heat cycles: Your dog will go into heat (estrus) every 6-9 months. During this time, she will bleed from her vulva and attract male dogs, which can be a nuisance.
- False pregnancies: Some female dogs that are not spayed will develop false pregnancies, which can involve behavioral changes and even producing milk.
- Urinary incontinence: This can be more common in dogs that are spayed later in life.
Other Considerations
- Unwanted pregnancies: If your dog is not spayed, she can become pregnant if she comes into contact with a male dog. This can lead to a litter of puppies that you may not be prepared for.
- Hormonal behavior changes: Unspayed dogs can exhibit behaviors such as aggression, territoriality, and increased marking.
It's important to note that spaying your dog has many benefits and can significantly improve her overall health and well-being.
