The implications of early and late castration in dogs: literature review

Abstract

The first method of sterilization in male dogs is orchiectomy. It is through it that population control can be done, adapt unwanted behaviors and prevent diseases. The technique consists of the surgical removal of the testicles and is considered a simple, effective and irreversible surgical method, either electively or therapeutically. The objective of this bibliographical review is to discuss the benefits and risks of orchiectomy surgery and make a comparison between prepubertal and late castration, highlighting the implications of each one of them. Literature from current academic scientific articles was used. Gonadectomy, whether pre-pubertal or late, proves to be effective in controlling the population of stray dogs and consequently reducing zoonotic diseases. Regarding the ideal age to perform the orchiectomy, it is up to the veterinarian, after a careful analysis of the individual aspects of each patient, the etiological factors, the benefits and the risks to submit him to the surgical procedure.