Early Neutering

[BarbV]

Me again

I've been doing a little research on this and there seems to be some opinion to wait beyond 6 months to neuter your male. The reasoning appears to relate to allowing the dog to mature a little further to ensure:

1) Full closing of growth plates allowing for joints to develop properly;
2) Fuller fur growth

Beyond the very slight risk of testicular cancer by waiting, in Bacca's case there may be benefit by waiting....by waiting a little longer, his testicle may still drop avoiding abdominal surgery.

As he's currently not showing any male-type behaviours (marking, humping, etc.) I think I'll wait a few weeks more.

 

[TekkosMom]

I'm scared for him but research says it's ok

My Tekkie's just turned 8 months old yesterday (sucha big boy) and he is still not neutured. Both of his testicles have dropped so there are no problems there but to be honest, I've got "being a first time fur mom" and am scared for him. To rarionalize my hesitation I have done some research to justify it. (Barb V covered the big ones) So... I'm holding out until he starts causing trouble. So far he hasn't shown any signs of marking his territory. He doesn't even lift up his leg when he pees! He's a sensitive little man.

 

[BarbV]

I'm still holding out too. Bacca now 8 months.

I think I will call the vet though and have him check to see if that testicle has dropped yet or not. It's a double-edged sword....if it hasn't dropped, the longer I wait, the greater the risk of cancer later. On the other hand, if it hasn't dropped, then its the more expensive and instrusive abdominal surgery.