Castration: The removal of the male testicles
Spaying: The removal of the ovaries and uterus of the female dog

Unless a dog is neutered he/she may be responsible for the birth of many unwanted pups. There are already thousands of stray and abandoned dogs and organisations like ours are left to pick up the pieces.

Neutering can also prevent some illnesses in later life and reduce the stress experienced by many un-neutered dogs living in modern society, where they are expected to be nice family pets without expressing their natural urges. Tragically, many thousands of these dogs are destroyed needlessly each year. If owners had spayed/neutered their dog, much of this suffering could be avoided. Castration will cost around £60-£100 depending on the size of your dog and the area you live in. Owners on means tested benefits or low incomes may be entitled to have their dogs neutered for a reduced price via one of several neutering schemes across the UK.

Why to neuter males
May reduce unwanted sexual behaviours
Eliminated the risk of testicular cancer
Greatly reduces the risk of problems with the prostrate gland
Reduces the risk of some anal and perennial tumors

Why to neuter females
Eliminates the risk of unwanted pregnancy
Eliminates the risk of mammary cancer if spayed before or after the first season
Prevents the advances of male dogs when out on walks or in your garden
Eliminates the mess and inconvenience of the season

In general, neutering should make your dog or bitch calmer, but their personality will stay the same. When taking into account the arguments surrounding neutering, the benefits greatly outweigh the disadvantages.