Canine Vasectomy

Changing Perspectives on Spay Neuter Recommendations for Dogs: Part II

Did you know that vasectomy surgery can be performed on dogs? Yep, it’s true and, the more we learn more about the effects of traditional canine neutering (castration), the more popular vasectomy surgery becomes.

Photo by Ron Fung on Unsplash

First, an important disclaimer:

When considering if and when to neuter a dog, the number one priority must always be the prevention of unintentional litters.

What exactly is a vasectomy?

Whether performed on a human or a dog, vasectomy surgery involves clamping, cutting, or ligating (tying off) the vas deferens, the duct that transports sperm out of the testicle and into the semen. Local anesthesia is all that’s needed to accomplish vasectomy surgery in men. (They tend to want to hold still for this.) In dogs, general anesthesia is required.

Vasectomy versus castration

Castration is referred to as “neutering” because the reproductive organs (testicles) are removed. With vasectomy surgery, the testicles remain, so, technically speaking, the dog is sterilized but not “neutered.”

Whether castrated or vasectomized, the end result is a sterile dog. And, there is a period of surgical recovery with both procedures. Castration is a “bigger deal” surgery in that the incisions are larger and, overall, there is more tissue trauma. Performed by a veterinarian with experience, vasectomy is considered minor surgery.

Impact on testosterone

Testosterone is made within the testicles. So, it makes sense that castration reduces testosterone production to almost nil. A very small amount of testosterone continues to be produced by the adrenal glands. Vasectomized dogs maintain normal testosterone production.

Choosing whether your dog should live his life with or without testosterone is an important decision these days. There is mounting evidence (pun intended) that, in some breeds, removal of testosterone in young dogs can be associated with negative health implications.

Discuss if and when to sterilize or castrate your dog with your veterinarian. Keep in mind that not all vets are up to date on current research.

Be forewarned…

If you are thinking about sterilizing your dog via vasectomy, consider the following:

• There is no “Vasectomy 101” course taught in veterinary schools. Most vets who perform vasectomies learn the procedure on their own. While the surgery is pretty darned simple, be sure to work with a surgeon who has several vasectomies under his or her belt (once again, pun intended). If you are having difficulty finding an experienced surgeon, find a veterinary surgical specialist. He or she will likely be able to handle your request.

• If you become unhappy with the role testosterone is playing in your vasectomized dog’s life (he’s humping everything in sight, he’s jumping the fence to be with the neighbor’s dog who is in heat), you can always opt for castration at a later date.

• Following vasectomy surgery, a male dog can successfully breed for up to two months. Do not let your vasectomized dog interact with a female in heat during this time period.

• You might be interrogated and/or ostracized at dog parks, doggie day care facilities, and other public venues where only neutered dogs are allowed.

Stay tuned for more spay/neuter/sterilization posts throughout Spay Neuter Awareness month.

Would you consider a vasectomy for your dog?

Best wishes to you and your four-legged family members for abundant good health,

Dr. Nancy