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Originally Posted by Carmeow  Thank you. It is stressful to read conflicting information regarding the growth plates, the first heat...waiting too long can lead to a higher chance of x but spaying too early will cause problems with y...  |
Well that is why like a good owner you are doing your research. Females are, (and aren't they always a bit more complex than the males) to decide on when to do the de-sexing.
There is a very small increased risk for mammary tumors, and also pyrometra (and yes even in a spayed female), but spay incontinence is lessened and also thyroid problems if you wait a tad longer. As well baby teeth have the opportunity to fall out naturally.
Growth plates close at approximate 8mths old give or take 1-2 months, and it is a good thing overall that they close prior to de-sexing a dog.
I would counsel to spay after growth plate closure; there is no need to guess, just have the vet take a lateral view of the tibia, that growth plate is the last to close. THen once closed, off to the clinic you go.
Dependent upon your female she "may" go into one heat prior to growth plate closure, or not. If so, you must keep her safe throughout her first heat, and then you can spay 6wks later.