Our Holistic Approach to Neutering
Neutering Policies
Choosing the Right to Neuter
Your new Wonderful Woofie is an intact dog until they’re spayed or neutered at 18 months. We don’t believe in early spay and neuter (ES/N). Through exhaustive research into the alternatives, we have made the decision to leave well enough alone. Our pups are sent home on a spay/neuter contract to be sterilized, at the owner’s expense, at 18 months of age.
Waiting to Neuter Can Mean a Healthier Dog
Delaying neutering can offer health and behavioral benefits to your dog by preserving innate sex hormones. It allows for full physical and mental maturity, reducing the risk of certain health issues like cancers and orthopedic problems. Behaviorally, it can promote a calmer and more stable temperament.
- Enhanced Bone Density: Waiting to neuter allows a dog’s bones to develop fully, potentially reducing the risk of future orthopedic issues.
- Lower Risk of Joint Disorders: Research suggests that dogs neutered early may have a higher incidence of joint disorders like hip dysplasia.
- Reduced Obesity Risk: Sex hormones can influence metabolism, and dogs that are neutered later in life may have a lower risk of obesity.
- Avoidance of Certain Cancers: While neutering can reduce the risk of some cancers, waiting may decrease the likelihood of others that are more prevalent in neutered dogs.
- Behavioral Development: Intact dogs may exhibit less fearful or anxious behavior and have a period of more natural behavior development.
- Cardiovascular Health: Some studies point to intact dogs having a lower risk of developing certain heart tumors.
Risks of Neutering Dogs Too Young
Understanding the Implications of Neutering
There is a growing body of research suggesting that early neutering can lead to a variety of health and behavioral challenges in dogs. Below, we outline some of the key risks associated with early spaying and neutering that pet owners should be aware of.
Physical side effects of early spay and neutering
- Shortened lifespan
- Atypical Cushing’s Disease
- Cardiac tumors
- Bone cancer
- Abnormal bone growth and development
- Higher rates of CCL ruptures
- Hip dysplasia
- Urinary incontinence in female dogs
- Urethral sphincter incontinence in males
Behavioral effects of early spay and neutering
- Separation anxiety
- Fear of noises
- Timidity
- Excitability
- Submissive urination
- Aggression
- Hyperactivity
- Fear biting.
Male Puppies
Managing Intact Male Dogs
Living with an intact male dog doesn’t necessarily entail dealing with excessive humping, indoor leg-lifting, or aggression. Contrary to common assumptions, intact males can learn proper manners, just like any other dog. In fact, neutered males often display aggression toward intact males, possibly due to scent differences.
Preventing humping and indoor marking requires management and training. Redirect your dog to play, training, or puzzle toys to discourage humping. When caught marking indoors, clean the area properly with an enzymatic odor neutralizer. If he’s agitated around females in heat, provide extra exercise and training. With consistent training and proper care, intact dogs can be as manageable as neutered ones.
Adolescent males who seemed to be house-trained may start lifting their legs in the home as a way of marking territory. (Intact females may also do this to attract mates.) That’s not cool. Do some remedial house training, restrict your dog’s freedom in the home with a crate, or by leashing him at your side and thoroughly clean the area he marked with an enzymatic odor neutralizer.
Intact males should never be in the presence of an intact in-heat female dog.
Female Puppies
Living With Your Female Pup While She Matures
While you wait for a female puppy to reach the appropriate age for spaying, you may notice some behavioral changes. She might become more territorial or restless, and her interactions with other dogs may need closer supervision. Training and positive reinforcement can help you manage her behavior effectively.
The first heat is typically between 9-12 months. The complete estrus, or heat, cycle typically lasts three weeks. Intact females will typically experience a heat cycle every five to nine months. You’ll notice your dog bleeding in the first two weeks of her three-week heat. While most dogs keep themselves quite clean, if they’re allowed on your furniture or bedding, you are going to want to diaper her.
It’s crucial to take precautions to prevent unwanted pregnancies. An intact and in-heat female should never be in the presence of an intact male dog.
About Us
When your pup comes from Big Rock Labradoodles, you're choosing a breeder who values ethics, health, and the well-being of every furry bundle we bring into the world. Get to know us and see why a pup from us means you're choosing a lifetime of love and quality care.
Our Code of Ethics
We aim to maintain the highest standards, blending science, top-tier veterinary care, and a whole lot of love to raise healthy, well-socialized pups. Learn more.
Health Testing
We consider our dogs as family members. That's why we put in time and effort to make sure your new furry family member stays healthy in the long term. Learn more.
