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When to neuter my dog.

Species: Dog
Breed: Golden
Age: 6-12 months
Hi,

I have an 8 month old 63 lb male intact golden retriver. When should I neuter him? How will it affect his personality (other than stopping him from humping)? Will he still be as hyper? Will he gain weight?
Will neutering him at this age limit his eventual size?

Thanks,

Jay


Online vet, Dr. Marie

Dr. Marie replied:

I usually recommend neutering a dog at about 5-6 months of age.

Usually the only effects on a dog's personality are good ones. For some hyper dogs it will calm them down a little. It usually stops humping behavior (but not always).

Some dogs will gain weight after neutering. We usually recommend feeding fewer calories after a dog is neutered.

It is debatable whether neutering will affect a dog's final size. If a dog is allowed to have testosterone in his system for a while then he will have a more muscular build. But personally, I don't believe that neutering will affect the size of his frame.

Dr. Marie.

Related question: My dog eats too fast


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Disclaimer: Although Dr. Marie is a qualified veterinarian, the information found on this site is not meant to replace the advice of your own veterinarian. AskAVetQuestion.com and Dr. Marie do not accept any responsibility for any loss, damage, injury, death, or disease which may arise from reliance on information contained on this site. Do not use information found on this site for diagnosing or treating your pet. Anything you read here is for information only.

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Dr. MarieDr. Marie is a veterinarian who practices in a busy animal hospital in Ottawa, Ontario. She created Ask A Vet Question as a resource for good, accurate veterinary advice online. Dr. Marie treats dogs, cats, hamsters, guinea pigs, and rats. She has been a vet since 1999.

Is an online vet visit just as good as a trip to your veterinarian? No! But, many times, asking an online veterinarian a question can help save you money. While Dr. Marie can't officially diagnose your pet or prescribe medications, she can often advise you on whether a vet visit is necessary. You can also ask Dr. Marie for a second opinion on your pet's condition.