Timing of fixing dogs
Written by shouphouse
We have been told by one source to have our two male puppies fixed after they turn 6 months of age and by another source to wait until the dogs are two years old. Is it better for the dog's health to wait?
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Correct this is a very good question. And there is no one answer. As it will vary by breed. It is best to follow the advice from "your" veterinarian. If you are not certain of this advice. Contact another vet in your area.Neutering is done most commonly at or around six months of age. However, many veterinarians perform this procedure earlier – as early as 8 to 10 weeks in some situations. Especially in regards to rescued animals.
Now there are Orthopedic Considerations, Cancer Considerations, Behavioral Considerations, Other Health Considerations Which you can read about here here Early Spay Considerations (pdf) .
Now for the breed I work with for example. Research has linked early neutering and spaying before first cycle to significant increases in the risk of osteosarcoma in the Rottweiler Breed.
"The researchers found that 14.8% of the Rottweilers studied developed appendicular bone cancer. The relative risk was 1.65 castrated males, 1.34 in spayed females and 1.03 in intact females. The risk of developing bone cancer was significantly higher in animals that were neutered at less than 1 year of age compared with intact animals. Dr. B. C. Beranek, Purdue University"
Research also shows and supports a greater risk of hip displasia amongst the Rottweiler Breed as well.
Look at both the pro and the cons and please discuss this with your vet as what will be best for you and your dog.
"The grand essentials of happiness are: something to do, something to love, and something to hope for."
- Allan K. Chalmers
Shouphouse, that is a good question, there certainly is a lot of information out there. There is absolutely no medical reason to wait to neuter. In fact, there are reasons not to wait. Males can start to develop some undesireable behaviors when not neutered such as aggression, roaming and marking territory. Another reason not to wait is that it is actually easier on the dog when they are 6 months. They are not matured yet making the surgery easier and the chances of post surgical complications far less. So go ahead and make that appointment!
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