Will spaying affect height growth?

[roguskie]

Pippi is nearly (nearly being next week)?6 months which is age I can have her spayed. However I am worried that reduced hormones she might miss a teen growth spurt. She hasn't even quite hit 11 inches. Does anyone have experience with "mini" shelties?

 

[labgirl]

I had a similar dilemma with Sparrow. I personally waited until her first proper season before making a decision for a few reasons. Firstly because letting her have a season would hopefully make her more mature mentally. Secondly because I was concerned about her being fully grown before removing her hormones. She is going to be an agility dog too and I didn't want to risk joint issues by not allowing the growth plates to close before she was spayed.

I have been told that in male dogs neutering early makes them more leggy and tall. But can't say if this is the same with bitches.

Sparrow is now nearly a year old, she has had a full blown season and is booked to be spayed in June.

Hope that helps. When to spay is definitely a personal decision that each owner must make as best suits them and their dog.

 

[vickaaayhay]

Hi Pippi! Aimee is going to be 7 months next week. I'm also hoping to do agility with her and choosing to let her have her first heat before spaying her. She is on the small side as well, last month at the vet's she was still 9 pounds. It may or may not make a difference, however I just want to make sure she has the chance to fully develop. Unless you have an un-neutered male around her, I don't think it's a big deal I think the vet will encourage you to now because the surgery goes a little easier at this age. It's your personal choice though

 

[Judyg]

Hi Pippi,

Lacey is 9 months old and 7days into her first heat. I was going to have her spayed before, but she decided otherwise and started last week. Since she did go I'm going to wait until she is closer to a year before I do have her spayed, although I do think she is done growing. She has not changed much in the last few months. She is 13 lbs and 13.5 inches. She is going to be an agility dog and a couch potato as well. She is a little fireball, full of energy and loves to run. She is super fast!