It is a question we get asked all the time and the truth is there is no ‘one size fits all’ answer to this. There is a lot of current research and discussion around this topic. There is a lot of evidence to say reproductive hormones can have an impact on a dog’s confidence and if they show any ‘fear’ behaviours we tend to wait until they are more mature, rather than neutering in the mid ‘teenage’ years. With regards to large breed dogs and Dachshund’s we would tend to wait until they are completely skeletally mature around 18 months as there is now evidence to suggest early neutering can impact the development of the spine.
There are advantages to early neutering, we can do small dogs before a season if this is wanted. There is a lot of evidence to say the earlier we neuter female dogs the less likely they are to develop mammary cancers. There is lots of differing advice out there and what I would always say is we need to assess the individual dog’s character, behaviours, breed and home environment to determine what is best for your dog, in some instances we may not recommend neutering at all. Getting advice from a Vet, Vet Nurse or qualified behaviourist would always be worthwhile to do what’s best for your pet.
Lucy Travers BVSc CertAVP MRCVS
Highfields Vets