Why and When Should I Spay or Neuter My Schnauzer?

If you plan to keep your Schnauzer in the house except for planned outings, and you are not interested in becoming a breeder, you may not think you’ll need to spay or neuter. Think again. We made that mistake and our Livi nearly paid for it with her life. She developed a critical uterine infection and needed an emergency hysterectomy. It was an ordeal for all of us, and I decided that I would never make assumptions about our Schnauzer’s care again. I wondered why and when we should have sterilized Livi, and here’s what I found.

Why and When Should I Sterilize My Schnauzer? The most common age to spay or neuter a Schnauzer is between four and nine months of age. Neutering and spaying prevent unwanted litters, assist in protecting against some severe health problems, and might reduce the behavioral issues linked to the mating instincts.

Looking back, I realize that our reasons for not spaying Livi were naïve and uniformed. I was busy with three young kids and I based our decision to delay spaying based on the fact that Livi was primarily a house dog and wouldn’t have opportunities to get pregnant.

If I can encourage anyone else (particularly first-time Schnauzer owners) to make a better decision based on solid information, I’ll feel better about the entire experience.

Having a puppy spayed or neutered is a common technique, but you will want to have the facts. This article will explain spaying and neutering, and describe the changes you should expect in your Schnauzer after the procedure. We’ll also dive into the cost and recovery process.

What Exactly is Spaying and Neutering?

Spaying

Spaying is a general term used when a female Schnauzer is sterilized by removing its uterus and ovaries to eliminate its heat cycle and prevent reproduction.

You’ll generally have two options. You can proceed with an ovariohysterectomy which is a surgery where both uterus and ovaries are removed, or an ovariectomy where only ovaries are removed. Both surgeries are effective options and are equally safe.

Neutering

Neutering refers to a simple procedure that removes the Schnauzer’s testicles to stop reproduction. The vet removes the epididymides and testes, along with the spermatic ducts and the adjacent blood vessels.

Although it is not nearly as common, you may also have the option of selecting a vasectomy, which is the severing of the tubes that conduct sperm from the testes.

Why Spay and Neuter?

It Reduces Unwanted Litters

Every year, many millions of unwanted dogs enter a shelter or rescue organization. Only a fraction of that number are ultimately adopted, leaving millions behind for euthanasia. By having your Schnauzer sterilized, you will play your part in avoiding this growing, tragic situation.

In addition to neutering and spaying preventing unwanted litters, the procedures also assist in protecting against some severe health problems and might reduce many of the behavioral issues linked to mating instincts.

It Has Health and Behavioral Benefits

Removing the testes from a male Schnauzer will reduce the breeding instinct, which makes it less inclined to roam around the neighborhood, hump, fight with other dogs, and display aggressive behaviors in general. Removing the ovaries of a female Schnauzer eliminates the heat cycles and eventually reduces any unwanted mating behaviors.

Early spaying of female Schnauzers can assist in protecting them from some severe health issues later in life like breast cancer and uterine infections. Neutering your male Schnauzer can also reduce its risks of developing testicular cancer and benign prostatic hyperplasia, which is another name for the enlarged prostate gland.

These procedures have no effect on the intelligence of your Schnauzer or its ability to learn, work, hunt, or play. Schnauzers tend to be better behaved after surgical removal of their testes or ovaries, making them more pleasant companions.

When Should Your Spay or Neuter Your Schnauzer?

There is no absolutely consistent answer about the specific age you should spay or neuter your Schnauzer. In fact, you may find that recommendations actually contradict each other, but here are some suggestions that seem to align with a general consensus.

Here are some key facts you should take into consideration when deciding to spay or neuter your Schnauzer:

Age Considerations

• Work directly with your veterinarian and sterilization clinic to gain recommendations specifically for your Schnauzer breed. For example, large breeds like Giant Schnauzers tend to mature more slowly and you can possibly delay sterilization. Small breeds like Miniature Schnauzers tend to mature earlier and you will want to address the sterilization question quickly.
• Overall, Schnauzers are spayed or neutered between four and nine months of age. Some experienced clinics will sterilize as young as two months of age, but you will want to check with your veterinarian about any health risks involved.
• Female Schnauzers are often spayed before their first heat. For Miniature Schnauzers, the first heat or estrus generally occurs at between five and nine months of age. For Standard and Giant Schnauzers, first heat will be between seven and twelve months.
• Spaying female Schnauzers before the age of four may help to avoid mammary tumors and critical uterine infections. Without the aid of childbirth, Schnauzers do not fully expel menstrual material and it can, over time, build up and cause a severe infection. This was Livi’s situation and it was a medical emergency.
• When it comes to male Schnauzers, it’s often suggested that you should have them neutered after they have reached puberty. It is thought to produce some lifelong health benefits, and it also helps prevent some behavioral traits like marking and aggression.

Health Considerations

• Neutering male Schnauzers may also protect them from testicular cancer.
• Dogs, including Schnauzers, who have been sterilized may have a high rate of prostatic cancer and orthopedic conditions. Since Schnauzers are already at a higher risk of Hip Displaysia, regular check-ups with your veterinarian will minimize any downsides to spaying and neutering.
• Work with your veterinarian to ensure that your Schnauzer is in good health and strong enough for surgery. You will also need to be current on all vaccinations.

Is it Safe to Spay or Neuter Adult Schnauzers?

The short answer is that it depends. In Livi’s case, it was absolutely necessary. The condition she had was a pyometra, an infected uterus, and everything needed to be removed immediately. Because of the level of infection in cases of pyometra, this is no ordinary spaying. It’s a required, life-saving surgery…but risky.

Because she had been through many heat cycles with no pregnancies or births, and no complete and cleansing menstrual or afterbirth discharge, a life-threatening had infection developed.

Thankfully, her surgery was successful and she recovered well.

Short of needing an emergency spaying or neutering, healthy adult Schnauzers should tolerate the surgery generally well. However, their overall health needs to be taken into account. They may experience more pain and take longer to recuperate. In addition, overweight Schnauzers will have a harder time.

Even with the precautions above, it’s generally a sound decision to spay or neuter your Schnauzer as a puppy and avoid unnecessary complications down the road.

The Pros and Cons of Sterilizing Your Schnauzer

As with any surgical procedure, there are pros and cons. While sterilizing your Schnauzer is considered to be a common and routine procedure, it’s worth talking about the realities.

The Pros of Neutering and Spaying

It Can Prevent Some Health Complications	Some of the diseases you can prevent through neutering and spaying include breast cancer, testicular cancer, and enlarged prostate.
It Reduces The Urge To Mate	The desire to mate reduces once your Schnauzer undergoes the spaying or neutering process. That means that the urge to roam around and expand territory is dramatically reduced.
It Stabilizes Your Dog’s Mood	Neutered/spayed dogs tend to be calmer, quieter, and even less stressed.
It Reduces Spraying and Marking Issues	A spayed or neutered dog does not feel the need to mark its territory, particularly in the house.
It Can Minimize Sexualized Behaviors	Neutering or spaying can reduce sexual behaviors such as mounting on other dogs and leg humping because the procedure changes the urge to mate in Schnauzers.
Spaying Or Neutering Does Not Lead To Weight Gain	As long as your Schnauzer eats a healthy diet and exercises regularly, neutering and spaying procedures do not lead to weight gain in Schnauzers. However, she will probably need fewer calories.
It Prevents Overpopulation Of Dogs	Millions of dogs are euthanized each year because of overcrowding in shelters and adoption clinics. Reducing the number of unwanted puppies helps to reduce this tragic situation.

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The Cons of Neutering and Spaying

Anesthesia Has Some Side Effects	There is around a 20% chance that your Schnauzer might have severe reactions when under anesthesia, a vital medication needed for neutering and spaying. Although most of these reactions might not be serious, they can be life-threatening for your Schnauzer.
Possible Illnesses	Spaying and neutering might increase the chances of urinary incontinence and urinary tract infections.
Hormonal Imbalances	Neutering can cause hormonal imbalances, which can cause hypothyroidism and eventually lead to unnecessary weight gain.
Bone Development	Poor bone development in Schnauzers can be caused by early spaying and neutering. Always consult your veterinarian on the best age to spay or neuter your Schnauzer.

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How Much Does Sterilization Cost?

The cost of spaying or neutering your Schnauzer will vary based on your geographic location and the size of your breed.

Giant and Standard Schnauzers will be more expensive to sterilize than Miniature Schnauzers. In addition, female spaying is a more complex procedure and will cost more than the more simple neutering procedure.

Animal hospitals and veterinary clinics will be more expensive and could charge upwards of $300 and more. Lower cost clinics in my area charge between $90 and $110. Check the options in your area and be sure to consider reviews and the overall reputation of the clinic or hospital you choose. In addition, The ASPCA lists low-cost options on their website.

Recovering from Spaying and Neutering

Neutering and spaying will require anesthesia and while the procedure is considered to be routine, you will need to be an active participant in the recovery. With a few restrictions and some extra attention, your Schnauzer should bounce back relatively quickly.

Consider this to-do list for a safe and successful recovery process after your Schnauzer is neutered or spayed.

Plan for Two or More Weeks of Care	Your Schnauzer will require a minimum of 2 weeks or even more to completely heal from neutering and spaying. It is a common misperception that the neutering process of male Schnauzers is a simpler operation and therefore has a faster recovery time. Nevertheless, the incision made on a male Schnauzer is almost the same size as the one required for their female counterparts, so the recovery process is the same for the two genders. You might consider hiring an experienced pet sitter or taking some time off from work during the first two weeks of the recovery period. Your Schnauzer will require dedicated supervision during this healing period.
Create a Private Area For Your Schnauzer	The drowsiness and any other side effects from the anesthesia used during the surgery often linger for several hours after the procedure. If you have a Giant Schnauzer, the after-effects from the anesthesia might last longer because of the utilization of more of this medication during surgery. Since your Schnauzer may be stressed from the discomfort and the pain of the procedure and traveling back and forth from the unfamiliar environment, it could cause him to act out and even become aggressive until they have an opportunity to rest. You should set aside a crate or room where you can be near the pet for one or two days while giving it privacy him the same time.
Use an Elizabethan Collar or “Cone Of Shame”	The cone, while a little uncomfortable, will keep her from licking and possibly infecting the surgical site.
Use Medications	Your veterinarian or clinic may prescribe pain medication appropriate and safe for dogs. If so, use them as prescribed for pain management and contact your veterinarian with any follow-up questions or concerns.
Carefully Watch For Any Complications	During the recovery period, you should check the incision part every day. Monitor the area closely to make sure that no infections develop. If you see increasing swelling and redness, or a foul odor, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Don’t Bathe Your Schnauzer	Bathing your Schnauzer within the first weeks after spaying or neutering can introduce incredibly harmful bacteria to the area of the surgery even when using soap. In addition, water can dissolve the outer stitches. You can wipe your Schnauzer’s coat down using a damp cloth, but remember to keep it away from the surgery area.
Control Your Schnauzer’s Activities	During the recovery process, you should keep your dog’s activities to the minimum, and that means no jumping, running, wrestling, or rolling. If you have other pets, keep them apart for at least two weeks. However, your dog can spend short periods together with the other pets with adequate supervision but should not be left alone together even for a short while because of risks to the incision area.

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Because all Schnauzer breeds are such loving, fun, family-friendly dogs, I think it’s easy to become comfortable with the idea that they are healthy and almost self-maintaining. We found out the hard way that their health can deteriorate quickly under some circumstances.

Even responsible Schnauzer families can overlook potential problems because, let’s be honest, Schnauzers just don’t complain very often.

Knowing the risks and benefits of spaying and neutering your Schnauzer, along with the option to postpone or deny it altogether, will help you make an informed, safe decision.

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