My boxer bitch was neutered yesterday morning. All went well. My DH and I have only had male dogs in the past so don't have any experience with females. If it is relevant she is 18 months old, having only had her first season three months ago, and our vet strongly recommended waiting til after this to neuter.
When we went to pick her up she was very dopey and confused as expected. She didn't really sleep last night and this morning doesn't seem much better. No real interest in food or drink, though she did manage a piece of ham earlier! All she does is stand and sway or lie down and shake/cry quietly. She does have some painkillers to take once a day, so had that this morning. Her wound looks to be neat and clean/dry. No signs of a temperature, no vomiting.
The male dogs we have had in the past have from memory bounced back much quicker from their ops. I understand it is a much more major op for girls though.
We have a follow up appointment on Friday evening.
Is this normal behaviour for a neutered, female dog? Or should I be worried and take her back into the vet quicker? How soon would I expect her to start acting more herself? The vet did say she would be "a bit subdued" for a week or so, but this is really really subdued! On the other hand, she is not a very stoic dog and does tend to make a huge fuss over things.
Any advice very much appreciated.