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Will spaying change my dog's playful personality or energy levels?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Female | 1 year and 2 months old | 70 lbs

My dog is getting spayed this Friday will it change her puppylike behavior.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Mara Howard, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on February 6th, 2018

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! While spaying can affect behavior, it does not typically alter a dog's personality, so if Bailey is happy and playful, that should continue post-surgery. Immediately after surgery, she will have a recovery period from anesthesia as well as the procedure, so she will be quieter then, but should return to her normal self in approximately two weeks.

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    Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Hello, thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Spaying, for the most part, has no effect on behavior. If anything, it can prolong a puppy like behavior for a bit longer. So Bailey will be the same sweet baby after the surgery as she is now. Take care.

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