This sort of restless behaviour, agitation and even whimpering/crying isn't unusual and can be caused by the anaesthetic. It does take a day or two for the anaesthetic to completely clear the system and some dogs can feel very disorientated when it's wearing off.
Any discomfort caused by having your dog fixed lasts for just a few days and should be completely gone after about a week. If your pup is experiencing pain or discomfort for more than a couple of days contact your vet for further advice.
Following a general anesthetic, some dogs cry and whimper quite loudly. Neutered dogs usually feel some degree of discomfort immediately following their procedure. It is not unusual for your dog to whine or whimper after being neutered, although some dogs can tolerate pain more than others.
After your dog's neuter surgery, your pet should be experiencing a minimal amount of pain, but we know that you will likely want to help them rest and remain as comfortable as possible.
With proper care, the healing process will take approximately two weeks. Most pet parents are surprised to find out how quickly their male dogs recover from this safe and effective procedure. A smooth recovery process starts with a reliable veterinarian.
A few male dogs will suffer from separation anxiety after the neutering process and may find it harder to relax if you're not nearby. It can make things more difficult in your everyday life, but these side effects should simmer down quickly. Dog nervousness can also show itself with excessive barking.
Most dogs recover relatively quickly from neutering. A little wooziness is not unusual; post-anesthesia anxiety and fussiness is normal. Young dogs may want to return to play as soon as the same day. However, dogs should be kept calm for 10 to 14 days after surgery, or however long your veterinarian recommends.
If you notice any discharge, swelling or redness at the surgery site, or if the incision opens, contact your vet. Also call your vet if your dog has diarrhea, begins vomiting, stops eating or seems lethargic.
Keep your pet confined where it will be quiet and warm. DO NOT place it on a bed or other high place. Keep your pet away from other animals and children for at least 12 hours. Offer water and food in very small amounts for the first 12 hours.
This kind of vocalization is usually motivated by excitement and may be directed at dogs or people. Some dogs whine in the presence of their owners in order to get attention, rewards or desired objects. Some dogs whine in response to stressful situations. In this context, whining sometimes seems involuntarily.
You give them a treat. It's a learned behavior, which you encourage by “giving in.” Bottom line: This type of crying should stop when you sit next to your dog, or you call his or her name.
The morning after the operation you may begin to take your dog for walks again, although be advised that any walks for the next 10-14 days are lead walks only and for no more than 20 minutes at any one time.
According to several studies, the main behaviors that are affected consistently in male dogs following neutering (I guess I am being politically correct now) include: decreased sexual behavior (primarily, mounting behavior), urine marking (depositing urine on objects), and roaming.
The effects of neutering are not immediate. It takes several weeks for the dog's body to adjust to the lack of testosterone. During this time, you may notice that your dog is less active and has less energy than usual. After a few weeks, most dogs return to their normal activity levels.
Cuddle Up & Relax
Sit with your dog on the couch (if they're allowed) or by their bed. During my dogs recovery period I spent a lot of time reading on the couch with my dog snuggled up next to me. It's an easy way to keep an eye on your dog and you get to spend some nice quality cuddle time together.
Excessive licking can irritate the incision site causing inflammation, leading to further infection, and will even cause it to reopen. Licking and chewing on the wound will also tear the sutures and require you to visit the vet again to close it properly.
After your dog gets neutered, he needs to stay calm and relatively inactive for around 2 weeks. This helps him heal and prevents the incision from tearing open. To keep your dog calm, supervise him, confine him when you're not home, and give him toys to play with.
No running, jumping, climbing stairs or doing anything other than walking on a leash for the next 10 days. Your pet needs to be kept in an indoor crate/ kennel for most of the day and night for the next 10 days. The time of highest risk for the sutures breaking down is 3-5 days after surgery.
Most vets will agree to let you take your pet home if the following criteria are met: No complications arise during your pet's recovery. Your pet is there for the neuter or spay only and not for an additional procedure that may be more complicated.
Respond selectively to your dog's whining. If you're sure there's no real need, it's best to ignore it. Once you notice a moment of silence, offer praise, a treat, or a similar reward. You can even take this opportunity to work on the "quiet" command.
You may not need to immediately pick them up after they cry or whine; however, physical contact in certain situations can provide comfort to your puppy, such as when another dog barks at them or just after a veterinarian has given them a vaccination.
Barking or Whining For Attention
Ignore this behavior. Often times the behavior will get worse before it gets better. Reward your dog with attention, treats, and praise only when he is quiet. As in many other training processes, consistency is key.
If your dog howls, whines, or barks to get your attention. Some dogs will pick up on the fact that they can get your attention by howling. They may be trying to alert you to perceived danger, or just get you to fill their food bowl. Either way, they are trying to communicate with you.
What are the typical signs of pain in dogs? General behaviour: Shaking, flattened ears, low posture, aggression, grumpy temperament, panting or crying, excessive licking or scratching a specific area, reluctant to play, interact or exercise, lameness (limping), stiffness after rest, loss of appetite.