When do I spay or neuter my dog? This is an often debated and hot topic that not everyone will agree on. Some feel their giant malamute may not attain as large a stature or at increased risk for cancer and orthopedic problems. While most veterinarians believe dogs should be spayed or neutered around six months old. In 2013 UC Davis conducted a study on large and giant breed canines finding that dogs sterilized before 6 month of age had barely noted increase in orthopedic problems and all reached full growth potential. Dogs sterilized at 6 months or older showed no increase in orthopedic disease. So the flip side is what are the benefits to sterilization prior to fully maturing. According to Dr. Roger Welton DVM there are many benefits and no proven risks if done at six months or older in males or females. Some benefits Dr. Welton emphasizes are less aggression in males and females, not marking for males, less incidence of penis and prostate infections, decrease in risk of mammary cancer, preventing unwanted pregnancy, and several other worthy benefits. So when it comes down to it there is very little to support waiting longer than six months to sterilize your fury friend and a lot of data stating to neuter or spay at six months is of benefit. Another thing to keep in mind is behaviors that potentially may have been prevented if sterilized at six months old, may or may not go away with time. Talk to your veterinarian and see what they say you may be surprised.
