Help! We Are Unsure About Spaying! (Vet Answered)
This question has been answered by a vet
Veterinarian & Animal Behaviorist
With nearly two decades in veterinary medicine, Dr. Paola brings hands-on experience across multiple species. A graduate of the University of Guadalajara, she specializes in preventive care, animal welfare, and positive reinforcement training.
The Question
“Dear Dr. Paola,
Daisy, our Western Highland Terrier, is about 10 months old and has had her first heat. My wife is afraid that having her “fixed” will change her personality. She is a very loving little dog, and my wife loves that, and it would crush her to lose this.
Note: we had a rescue Western Highland Terrier who was 3 to 5 years old when we
got her, and she was NOT loving, although she was a very good dog. ” – Loren
Quick Info about Daisy
Hi Loren,
It’s completely understandable that your wife feels protective of Daisy’s sweet nature, especially after having had a different experience with a previous Westie. Concerns that spaying might change a dog’s personality are very common, but they’re not typically supported by evidence. The core temperament of a dog, particularly traits like affection, social bonding, and attachment to family members, is shaped much more by genetics, early socialization, and life experiences than by the presence or absence of reproductive hormones.
Spaying does remove estrogen and progesterone cycling, but this usually does not result in a shift from affectionate to aloof behavior. In fact, many dogs become more relaxed and focused over time, particularly as they mature beyond the intense hormonal fluctuations of adolescence. There is no scientific evidence showing that spaying a loving dog makes her emotionally distant. What can happen is a temporary adjustment period post-surgery, during which your dog may be quieter or slightly off-routine while healing, just as a person might be after any major medical procedure or surgery.
Delaying the spay until after the first heat, as you’ve done, is actually consistent with newer recommendations for some breeds and sizes, and at ten months, Daisy is old enough to handle anesthesia and recovery well. If your wife’s concern is rooted in grief or worry about losing the bond she cherishes, it may help to remind her that Daisy’s loving nature is who she is, not a product of her hormones. Proceeding with a pre-surgical exam and discussing any specific behavioral observations with your vet can also reassure you both that the decision is being made thoughtfully and with Daisy’s lifelong well-being in mind.
Best,
Dr.Paola