I have a new-to-me beagle/bulldog bitch from the Berkeley County Humane Society. She’s a darling. She’s 5 years old, been tied out her entire life, and from the appearance of her teats, has whelped before (but it’s a guess). She came to me in heat so she won’t be spayed until next year.
Here’s the thing; I completely understand and appreciate the risk of pyometra in intact females. Odds are that it’s better to spay her now when she’s healthy rather than later when she’s sick from pyo.
My concern is what will change of her personality? I love this dog’s temperament. She’s an alpha bitch so she’s settled and calm (alphas are very cool, calm, and collected dogs). She takes everything in stride with confidence and calm. She’s met dogs, cats, chickens, adults, children and babies. She is empathetic -if I fake cry she’ll come to give me kisses.
How much of this is hormones and how much of this is sexual maturity? What will I lose when she no longer has hormones?
I know we have a couple of vets in these forums so I’m hoping for some input.
Thanks,
Paula