Answer

Hello,

If a dog had ever reacted unfavorably to anesthesia in the past, that would be a medical reason not to spay her, or subject her to any elective surgery. A dog with any kind of bleeding disorder would be in the same position. Certain chronic illnesses - heart disease, kidney or liver problems, some autoimmune disorders - also would make surgery risky.

Research has been done that has shown female dogs who are aggressive/dominant tend to become more so after spaying. Female sex hormones tend to modify the aggressive behavior, and spayed dogs, of course, have less estrogen. Behaviorists recommend that such dominant or aggressive dogs not be spayed.

Other side effects of spaying, such as increased possibility of urinary incontinence developing, or poorer quality of fur wouldn't be considered reason enough not to spay.

http://www.dogsey.com/dog-articles.php?t=12202

Spayed dogs cannot be exhibited in AKC conformation shows. If you chose to enter your dog in some shows to prove she is a show dog, that may also be reason enough for a vet to exempt her.

If you need more information on the above, or have more questions, just let me know by clicking on REPLY. Good luck in your battle.

Anna

Expert:	Anna
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Answered:	3/28/2009

Dog Expert

35 years training & showing dogs. Written articles for Dog Fancy, Dogs, Dog World.