Should I Neuter My Male Dog?

Frequently I am asked, by my puppy buyers, if they should neuter their male dogs.

My answer to this question always start with the question, “Do you plan on breeding or entering your dog in the show ring.”  This is important, because a neutered (or sometime referred as altered) male can not do either.

If you answer NO to both, then neutering might be the best thing for your dog.

Most Veterinarians recommend neutering male dogs both as a birth control  and to eliminate a dog’s chance of developing life-altering health problems. Neutering eliminates a dog’s chance of developing testicular cancer and reduces his chance of experiencing prostate problems. Additionally, the neutered dog is less likely to develop diabetes or perianal fistulas, chronic ulcerative lesions in the anal area.

Neutering can also improve the quality of life of male dogs. Studies show that neutered dogs are less likely to bite or demonstrate aggressive behavior than unneutered dogs. Many unneutered male dogs display negative behaviors such as marking their territory by urinating, provoking dog fights with other male dogs for dominance or running away.

When is the best time to neuter a male dog?

Some Veterinarians differ on their opinion as to what is the best age to neuter a male dog.  My vet, and I, agree that 16 weeks of age is the best time to neuter a male Boston Terrier.  This is because of the breed.  Boston Terriers can mature as soon as 6 months.  By neutering at 4 months (16 weeks) the testosterone levels are eliminated before maturity.  The hormone testosterone is the cause of most negative behaviors such as; territorial marking, food aggression and fights.

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