Neutering
Neutering is recommended by most vets and animal welfare organisations both for it’s advantages to the health, welfare and in instances behaviour of your dog. It also helps reduce the 100,000 + stray dog population, by reducing accidental and unwanted litters.Neutering a female dog is referred to as spaying and male neutering is castration. Both procedures are routine operations carried out by veterinary surgeons under general anaesthetic. 
Every year there are large numbers of accidental and unwanted litters which further add to the burden and workload placed on rescue and welfare organisations. In 2004, there was a stray dog population of over 100,000 and over 10,000 dogs were killed (put to sleep) by local authorities, simply because they couldn’t be found homes (Source: Dogs Trust). Please don’t add to this problem!
Neutering also has certain health improving implications. Most often it leads to a calmer more placid family dog with a greater life span. In males dogs it can eliminate testicular cancer and reduce the likelihood of other tumours and reduces risks of other health problems. It can also lessen any unwanted sexual male behaviour. Neutering can also stop dogs roaming and running off when a female dog is in heat. In females it will stop accidental pregnancies, pyometra (a womb infection), ovarian cysts and tumours as well as other cancers.
There is divided opinion on when to neuter. Some veterinary surgeons and dog welfare organisations believe neutering should be carried out whilst dogs are still puppies. Others advise waiting until a female dog has had a season and is physically mature and the same for male dogs. Be guided by what your own veterinary surgeon recommends and what you feel is best for your dog.