Understanding the Hidden Effects of Spaying and Neutering 

Did you know that spaying and neutering, while essential for controlling pet populations, cause major hormonal shifts inside your dog’s body?

When dogs are spayed or neutered, their body’s natural balance of luteinizing hormone (LH) changes — sometimes dramatically. This little-known fact has big implications for your dog’s long-term health. In this post, we’ll break down what LH does, what happens when it’s removed, and how you can support your dog naturally.

 

What Is Luteinizing Hormone (LH), and Why Does It Matter?

LH’s main role is in reproduction — it helps trigger ovulation in female dogs and testosterone production in males. But LH receptors are found in many parts of the body, including joints, the urinary tract, the thyroid, and even some cancers.

When a dog is spayed or neutered, their ovaries or testicles are removed, causing estrogen and testosterone levels to drop. This stops the natural “feedback” that keeps LH levels balanced. As a result, LH levels can rise to over 30 times normal!

This constant high LH level can overstimulate tissues outside the reproductive system — potentially leading to health challenges.

Common Long-Term Effects of Elevated LH After Gonad Removal

• Weight Gain & Obesity
  Spayed/neutered dogs often feel hungrier and have slower metabolism, leading to extra pounds.
• Urinary Incontinence
  Especially in spayed females, loss of bladder control can happen due to LH effects on urinary tissues.
• Joint & Ligament Problems
  Higher rates of hip dysplasia and cruciate ligament tears are linked to changes in joint tissues influenced by LH.
• Hormonal Disorders
  Hypothyroidism and diabetes risk increase, possibly from LH impacts on the thyroid and pancreas.
• Behavioral Changes 
  Increased anxiety, fear, and aggression have been observed, likely tied to LH effects on brain areas. Source:Link
• Higher Risk of Certain Cancers
  Some cancers, including lymphoma, bone cancer, and skin tumors, show higher rates in spayed/neutered dogs.

Source: Dr. Michelle Kutzler Study

Supporting Your Dog After Spaying or Neutering

Good news — there are new and natural ways to help balance these hormonal changes and support your dog’s health long-term.

One approach gaining attention is homeopathic hormone replacement therapy. Monthly treatments using male or female dog (or cat) homeopathic hormone formulas combined with homeopathic luteinizing hormones can help gently regulate hormone activity without reversing sterilization.

This may reduce overstimulation of LH receptors and help with symptoms like weight gain, behavior changes, or urinary issues.

Alongside this, maintaining a balanced diet, regular exercise, and routine vet visits creates a strong foundation for your dog’s wellbeing.

What You Can Do Now

• Learn and Share: Understand the role of LH and how spaying/neutering impacts your dog’s body.
• Talk to Your Vet: Discuss alternative sterilization methods like ovary-sparing spays or vasectomies to preserve some hormone function.
• Consider Holistic Support: Ask about homeopathic hormone replacement and other natural therapies to complement traditional care.
• Observe Your Dog: Watch for changes in appetite, weight, behavior, and mobility — and seek veterinary advice promptly.

Final Thoughts

Spaying and neutering remain vital tools to prevent unwanted litters and some reproductive diseases, but being aware of the hormonal effects helps you keep your dog happy and healthy throughout their life.

With growing options like homeopathic hormone treatments and holistic care, you can take proactive steps to support your dog’s unique needs.

DOSING INSTRUCTIONS FOR BOTH REMEDIES CAN BE FOUND HERE