Neuter a Dog OR

Neuter a Dog

The first person who found the body believed it was the remains of a large, domesticated dog. The corpse was in an unusual position, laying on its back with its legs elevated into the air. Its head was turned up at the end of its body and its mouth was full of sand. It was apparent that the animal had fallen from a considerable height.

Dog

All dogs are not physiologically the same. Different breeds and sizes of dogs have different optimal ages for castration. According to a recent study, veterinarians and pet owners should work together to discuss the optimal age of neutering, instead of following a blanket age recommendation. Every dog owner should consult with their veterinarian about the health impacts of castration for their individual dog. (Source:

Historically, veterinarians have recommended neutering dogs before puberty. This not only minimizes the risk of unplanned litters, but also may offer behavioral benefits. Puberty and adolescence are the time when animals transition from youth to sexual maturity. In most breeds and sizes of dog, this period spans from 6 months to 2 years of age. Hormone surges during puberty can and do influence the behavior of any individual. Ask the parent of any teenager! If you’re considering waiting until social or structural maturity before neutering, be sure to talk to your veterinarian in-depth about what to expect with respect to your dog’s needs for exercise, training, appropriate and safe confinement, and appropriate social environments. (Source: vcahospitals.com)

Neuter

Testosterone influences sex drive and sexual acts, searching for mates, territorial behavior such as urine marking, and aggression between males. Testosterone may also affect confidence and the role of the experience of fear in some dogs. Neutering will result in a reduction in sexual behaviors (breeding attempts and masturbation), seeking mating opportunities, and urine marking. Some of these sexual behaviors can be dangerous, resulting in fights between dogs, roaming and being injured by cars, fences, poisons, and other threats, and neutering will decrease these risks.

There is conflicting evidence at this time, but it is possible that neutering males before puberty may correlate with increased aggression directed toward strangers and strange dogs. However, further research is needed before any firm conclusions can be drawn in this situation. Neutering was historically considered a crucial part of therapy for all dogs displaying unwanted aggression. A more careful examination of the aggression with a veterinarian experienced in treating behavior disorders is now recommended prior to neutering, as neutering may worsen fear-related behaviors in a small subset of dogs. (Source: vcahospitals.com)