Desexing Your Puppy: What You Need to Know

Desexing is one of the most important health decisions you will make for your puppy, and one of the most common procedures we perform. It is safe, routine, and supports a longer, healthier life for your dog and a more responsible pet community overall.

What Is Desexing?

Desexing (also called spaying or neutering) is a surgical procedure that permanently prevents your puppy from reproducing. For females, this means removing the ovaries and uterus (a spay). For males, it means removing the testicles (a neuter). Both procedures are performed under general anaesthetic by our experienced veterinary team.

Why Desex Your Puppy?

Health Benefits

• Prevents unwanted pregnancies
• Reduces the risk of uterine infections and mammary cancer in females
• Eliminates the risk of testicular cancer in males
• Reduces hormone-driven behaviours such as marking and roaming

Behavioural Benefits

• Can reduce aggression, roaming, and mounting
• Helps prevent urine marking in males
• Decreases certain unwanted behaviours linked to hormones

Community and Welfare Benefits

• Helps reduce pet overpopulation and pressure on shelters
• Supports a healthier, more responsible pet community

When Should You Desex Your Puppy?

In Australia, most puppies are desexed between five and nine months of age. The right timing depends on your puppy's breed and size. Large and giant breeds may benefit from waiting a little longer, as their hormones play a role in musculoskeletal development. We will recommend the best timing for your individual pup at your puppy health checks.

What to Expect on the Day

Admission: Your puppy comes in first thing in the morning, after fasting overnight (no food from midnight).

Anaesthesia: The procedure is performed under general anaesthetic. Your puppy is monitored closely throughout.

Surgery: Routine desexing generally takes less than an hour.

Recovery: Most puppies go home the same afternoon, a little drowsy but comfortable.

Aftercare at Home

• Keep your puppy calm and indoors for seven to ten days
• Check the incision daily for any redness, swelling, or discharge
• Use a recovery suit or e-collar to prevent licking
• Attend your scheduled follow-up check

Common Questions

Will it change my puppy's personality?
No. Desexing reduces hormone-driven behaviours, but your puppy's personality and spirit stay exactly the same.

Is it safe?
Yes. Desexing is a very common, safe procedure performed by experienced vets under general anaesthesia. We take every precaution to keep your puppy comfortable and secure.

Will my puppy gain weight?
Desexed pets can have slightly lower energy needs, but weight gain is easily managed with the right food and exercise. We can help you adjust their feeding plan after surgery.

Council Registration and Costs

Many local councils offer reduced registration fees for desexed and microchipped dogs. We will provide a desexing certificate for your records after the procedure.

Ready to Book?

Our team is happy to talk through the timing and process for your puppy. Call us on (03) 9592 9811, book online, or ask at your next puppy health check.