The Surprising Health Benefits of Keeping Your Dog Intact

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Jul 17, 2025

Why Hormones Matter More Than You Think

When it comes to our furry companions, we all want what’s best for their health and happiness. But did you know that your dog’s natural hormones might be doing a lot more for their well-being than you realized? For years, spaying and neutering have been the go to advice for pet parents, but science is giving us new reasons to take a closer look.

What Happens When You Remove the Hormones?

Spaying (removing ovaries) and neutering (removing testicles) might seem like standard procedures, but they come with some big hormonal consequences. The removal of these hormone producing organs affects everything from metabolism and muscle tone to behavior and immune health.

Let’s break it down…

🔬 Key Findings (That Might Surprise You)

🚨 Higher Cancer Risks
According to research from the Parsemus Foundation and UC Davis, dogs that are spayed or neutered, especially early in life, face increased risks of several cancers, including aggressive types like hemangiosarcoma and lymphosarcoma. One study even found brain tumors were 11 times more common in spayed females.

🦴 Joint Troubles
No hormones = more orthopedic problems. Spayed/neutered dogs have higher chances of hip dysplasia, torn ACLs, and other painful joint issues. This is especially risky if surgery is done before your pup’s growth plates close.

⚖️ Weight & Potty Woes
Removing sex hormones can mess with metabolism and muscle tone, often leading to obesity. It also ups the risk of urinary incontinence - no fun for your pup or your floors.

😬 Behavior That’s Not So Cute
Hormones play a key role in a dog’s emotional balance. Research suggests that removing them can contribute to anxiety, fearfulness, and even aggression. Some dogs actually become less trainable after surgery.

🛡️ Immune Disruptions
There’s growing evidence that spay/neuter may be tied to autoimmune issues like diabetes. Hormones help regulate the immune system, and taking them away could throw it off balance.

The Case for Keeping Hormones

So what’s the alternative? You don’t have to leave your dog entirely intact to preserve their health.

Hormone-sparing options like vasectomies and ovary-sparing spays (OSS) allow your dog to stay hormonally balanced while still preventing pregnancy. It’s the best of both worlds.

And here's something you may not have heard: the testes and ovaries aren't just reproductive organs, they’re powerful endocrine glands that help regulate your dog’s ENTIRE system. Without them, other glands like the thyroid and adrenal try to pick up the slack, often unsuccessfully.

What’s Luteinizing Hormone Got to Do With It?

Here’s where it gets nerdy so stay with us - it’s fascinating!

When the gonads are removed, the brain keeps sending out luteinizing hormone (LH) to trigger them, but they’re gone. So LH levels stay abnormally high. The issue? LH receptors are found all over the body - in the brain, thyroid, even ligaments and excessive stimulation might lead to tumors or tissue changes. We’re still learning the full impact, but early research is raising red flags.

🧠 Hormones = Healthier Minds

Sex hormones help your dog feel balanced, confident, and emotionally steady. They even influence brain development and memory. Dogs who’ve kept their hormones tend to be calmer, more social, and easier to train.

Contrary to popular belief, neutering doesn’t magically erase aggression or bad behavior. In some cases, it makes it worse. Behavior is complex—training, environment, and genetics matter just as much (if not more!) than hormones.

💪 Stronger Bodies, Fewer Injuries

From solid bones to sturdy joints, hormones are essential for physical development. Removing them too early can lead to uneven growth, longer limbs, and stress on the joints. All of which up the risk of painful injuries. Keeping hormones intact helps dogs develop naturally strong and well-formed musculoskeletal systems.

📊 So, What’s the Verdict?

Spay/neuter is often pitched as a blanket solution, but one size doesn't fit all. Here’s the truth:

Yes, spaying prevents mammary tumors (if done before the first heat), and neutering eliminates testicular cancer.
But the trade-off is an increased risk of other, often more dangerous, cancers and diseases.
Hormone-sparing sterilization is a viable and often healthier alternative.

🐾 Final Thoughts: Rethinking an Old Routine

The conversation around spaying and neutering is evolving and that’s a good thing! With growing research, we now know that hormones do far more than help dogs reproduce. They’re vital for a healthy immune system, strong bones, proper metabolism, a balanced mind, and even cancer resistance.

If you’re a dog owner who wants to make the best choice for your pup’s long-term well-being, it’s time to explore all your options. Keeping your dog intact or opting for a hormone-preserving procedure could mean a happier, healthier, and longer life for your best friend.