Does Getting A Male Dog Neutered Make Him Less Aggressive?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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While who are neutered do experience an increase in aggressive behaviors right after the procedure,

neutering can make them much less aggressive over time

. In fact, neutering has bee proven to create a much happier and calmer male dog over time.

Do male dogs act different after being neutered?


Behavioral changes are more pronounced among neutered males

. They're less likely to hump people, other dogs, and inanimate objects (though many persist). Males tend to wander and urine mark less, and aggression may be diminished in dogs who previously were.

What is the best age to neuter a male dog?

The recommended age to neuter a male dog is

between six and nine months

. However, some pet owners have this procedure done at four months. Smaller dogs reach puberty sooner and can often have the procedure done sooner. Larger breeds may need to wait longer in order to properly develop before being neutered.

Why is my dog more aggressive after being neutered?

The second is that

testosterone does appear to increase the expression of aggressive behaviour

. This might be an evolutionary hang-over from having to fight for mates, but whatever the reason, the threshold for initiating an aggressive act becomes lower the higher the dog's testosterone level is.

What are the pros and cons of neutering a male dog?

  • 1 PRO of neutering your dog: Reduction of “Male” Behavior.
  • 2 PRO of neutering your dog: Better Prostate Health.
  • 3 PRO of neutering your dog: Control of Breeding.
  • 1 CON of neutering your dog: Hypothyroidism and Weight Gain.
  • 2 CON of neutering your dog: Dementia and Bone Problems.

How long are dogs more aggressive after neutering?

After neutering your dog, its behavioral changes may begin

6 weeks

after the surgery. It includes reduced aggression, humping on female dogs and people, escaping, and roaming around. Male dogs can have different behavioral changes depending on their breed, age, and maturity.

What are the negative effects of neutering a dog?

  • Abnormal Bone Growth and Development.
  • Early Neutered Dogs Live Shorter Lives.
  • Early Neutered Dogs are at Increased Risk of Hypothyroidism.
  • Early Neutered Dogs are at Increased Risk of Incontinence.
  • Early Neutered Dogs are at Increased Risk of Disease.

What are the benefits of neutering a male dog?

Neutering a male dog

prevents testicular cancer and reduces the risk of other problems, such as prostate disease

. A neutered male dog might also have less desire to roam. May help with certain behavior issues.

Why you should wait to neuter your dog?

Studies have concluded that neutering before puberty

increases a dog's risk of: Cardiac tumors

.

Bone cancer

.

Prostate cancer

.

How long is recovery from neutering a dog?

Plan for 2 Weeks of Care

Your pet will need

a minimum of two weeks or more

to fully heal from spaying and neutering. Many pet owners think that the neutering of male dogs is a simpler procedure and therefore has a quicker recovery time.

How does neutering affect a dogs temperament?

Neutered dogs will often be

less aggressive, calmer, and happier overall

. Their desire to mate is eliminated, so they will no longer be in constant search for a dog in heat.

Does neutering a dog help with dominance?

Another important behavioral improvement caused by neutering your pet is that

it will help suppress effects of testosterone

. Unneutered male pets tend to become more dominant, aggressive, and obstinate, due to surges in testosterone.

Do neutered dogs live longer?


On average dogs who are spayed or neutered live one and a half years longer than those who are not

. Typically, dogs who are not fixed live to be about 8 years of age, where fixed dogs average about nine and a half years.

Why is my dog more aggressive?

Aggression in dogs can be due to

guarding territory, resources, or a family member; fear; frustration; prey drive; or pain

. In all of these situations, a dog may be pushed too far and can transition quickly from reactive, fearful, or guarding behaviors to being aggressive.

How do you calm an aggressive dog?

  1. Keep Calm.
  2. Use a Calming Supplement.
  3. Avoid Triggering Situations.
  4. Behavioral Courses.
  5. Make Your Dog Feel Safe.
  6. Socialize Your Dog.
  7. Discuss Medication with your Veterinarian.

How does a dog feel after being neutered?

Immediately after surgery,

your dog may not seem like their usual self, or they may feel queasy or tired

– these are typical side effects of general anesthesia. Your pup should begin behaving more like themselves the next day and show little sign of pain or discomfort the next day.

Diane Mitchell
Author
Diane Mitchell
Diane Mitchell is an animal lover and trainer with over 15 years of experience working with a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, birds, and horses. She has worked with leading animal welfare organizations. Diane is passionate about promoting responsible pet ownership and educating pet owners on the best practices for training and caring for their furry friends.