Pros and Cons of Neutering a Cockapoo
What is a Cockapoo?
For those not in the know – at all – erm, no, a Cockapoo is not a bird. That’s a cockatoo.
A Cockapoo is a mixed breed created by crossing a Cocker Spaniel with a Poodle. Because the Cockapoo can be produced from a wide assortment of parents, its appearance and size may vary significantly, as can its personality traits.
Typically, Cockapoos are active, intelligent dogs with low-shedding coats that are ideal for allergy sufferers. They are usually very welcoming, easy to train, and affectionate.
The Pros and Cons of Neutering Your Cockapoo
Most dog owners prefer to neuter their pets if they have no intention of breeding. We hope to assist you in making that choice with respect to your Cockapoo by writing this article. Alternatively, you should speak to your veterinarian about neutering.
Pros of Spaying a Female Cockapoo
Spaying your female Cockapoo prevents unwanted litter as well as the associated costs of an unwanted litter.
While Cockapoos are not commonly found in dog homes like Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, nevertheless, by spaying, you can help reduce the number of stray and homeless animals.
Having your female dog spayed before her first season is the most effective way to reduce the risk of serious and frequently fatal mammary tumours. Every subsequent season where your Cockapoo is not spayed reduces the effectiveness of this form of protection.
Older, ‘entire’ bitches are also susceptible to uterine infections called pyometra, a condition that is life-threatening and difficult to cure. Pyometra is an infection that can be fatal if not treated properly.
Every six months, ‘entire’ bitches tend to experience periodical estrus for approximately 2-3 weeks at which time there can be a bloody discharge that can be very messy. During this phase, her behaviour might alter and result in a lot of unwanted male attention when taking a walk.
Benefits of Castrating a Male Cockapoo
Testicular cancer and some prostate issues, such as cysts or infections, can be prevented if you castrate your Cockapoo. Prostate enlargement occurs in 80% of ‘intact’ dogs older than five years, and can result in difficulty urinating.
A male Cockapoo that is not neutered may mark his territory by spraying urine around the house.
Dogs that have been castrated tend to behave less aggressively or excessively amorously.
A dog that has been neutered is less likely to run away from home or seek out a mate.
Disadvantages of Neutering Your Cockapoo
The leakage of weak bladder muscles may occur in middle age if your dog is spayed before her bladder is fully developed. 20% of spayed female Cockapoos and female dogs, in general, suffer urinary incontinence as a result of early spaying. You may wish to discuss this with your vet as they could very well agree to delay spaying your dog until after her first season.
Your dog’s coat may be affected by neutering, but not all neutered dogs experience this effect.
The timing of neutering can impact a dog’s growth and development. Your veterinarian can advise you on the best time to neuter your Cockapoo with little sacrifice or compromise to anything else.
Misconceptions About Neutering
Your dog won’t necessarily gain weight after being neutered, as long as you provide them with adequate exercise and make sure they don’t overeat.
There is not always a guarantee that castration will reduce your dog’s undesirable behaviour since it’s dependent on your Cockapoo’s character and history (whether a particular behaviour is learned or innate).
Related Articles:
Pros and Cons of Neutering a Labrador