Hello from Wisconsin

[MidWestJen]

I'm new here, and eagerly pouring over the wealth of information to be found on these boards.

I'm a new sheltie puppy owner. Seriously new. Today new.

I've been reading about them for a while and am very, very excited to continue on my quest for knowledge.

I will say, that in this quest so far, I have become confused about altering my male sheltie. I had assumed I would absolutely have him neutered, but of course the internet is full of pros and cons on everything. Now I'm sitting here wondering what the heck is the right thing to do, and if neutering is the answer, when is the best time to do it?

I know I have time to research, but I'd love to hear opinions here. I'm guessing that most will say to neuter, since I have absolutely no desire to have him make puppies later in his life. But what about some of the health issues I've been reading about? I guess I'm paranoid now because I'm so completely in love with this puppy.

Looking forward to gaining a wealth of sheltie knowledge,

Jen

 

[bkzoo]

Hi Jen!

I am also in WI - LaCrosse area.

I am a recent Sheltie Nation newcomer - found this site after losing my Sheltie "Trace" to liver issues in January. You will love it here - pretty much any topic you're looking for will be covered. And I just love all the photos!

Congrats on the new puppy. We are hoping to bring a new little boy home in July.

I'll let the experts answer your neuter question. My personal choice is to do it, but that's just me.

 

[Calliesmom]

welcome
we love pix

my shelties compete in agility and rally so the boys were/will be neutered after they are finished growing.

Cranberry (now 4 yr) was neutered at 13 months

Jocu is currently 15 months with about 4-5 to go

Destin is about 8 months

Dixie was spayed before coming home so around 10 months- Cran was still intact then and we did not want puppies

action shots courtesy of SheepofBlue

 

[Chris]

Even though I own an intact male, I strongly support neutering. Beckon was held in reserve as a breeding option. As he matured, he developed anxiety issues, so since there's no real reason to neuter him -- all the girls are spayed -- we have no plans to proceed. But if I got a male puppy? Yup, neuter as soon as my incredible vet gave the go-ahead.

 

[Cyllian]

I have two intact males. I have no females. I do not know if I will ever breed them. One is 2 years four months the other will be one year next month. I also have had an unaltered male he was 6 1/2 when he passed due to cancer no it was not anything to do with male organs (pancreas was his issue). Never had issues with him. I have traveled with my dogs to various places including hotel stays, but have not yet participated in any dogs sports.

I think it is entirely up to you just be warned you will have to watch them more carefully if around an unaltered female. They may develop tendencies you do not care for if you do not alter them. Some become some what aggressive some mark things just to note a couple of things.

Also if your pup is new to you what sort of agreement do you have with the breeder. Some state you must alter them. They often even suggest by what time to alter them ( example five to seven months for many others state different things). Mine I have unlimited registrations so I have a choice for example.

Good luck with your pup.

 

[Laddie's Mom]

Welcome to SN from New Zealand

 

[cookieP]

Welcome!

I have one blue merle male sheltie who I had neutered at six months. He has done well and has no negative male behaviors, never began marking, doesn't lift his leg to things, doesn't have any aggressive behavior or dominance issues. But, that could easily just be him. Not saying neutering caused any of that. Neutering and when to do it is often personal preference.

There are several threads on this going at the moment, I'm sure you can find a wealth of info there

I look forward to seeing you around the forums!

 

[trini]

Welcome, Jen and your new wee one.

I have always neutered/spayed my pups at 6 months old. But you will get a lot of differing opinions on this topic. I would discuss it with your vet and then decide what makes you most comfortable.

You are going to love having a Sheltie!!!

Trini