larrygs
Super Boxer
We had Layla spayed at about 7 months to avoid statistically known health issues later.
However health problems are not the issue with males so we waited longer for Jack. I would have preferred not to get it done at all, however we were repeatedly told nonintact males would be aggressive toward Jack. We also got tired of hearing the advice it needs to be done, and since we were not intending to breed it didn't matter. However, we decided to wait at least 12 months before neutering to give hormones a little more time. The actual deed occurred at about 14 months. Next time I would wait to 18 months.
In hindsight, it did not affect his behavior in any way with one notable exception. When intact, it would take several leg liftings before he could completely relieve himself. Or we would need to take several trips outside. Which is frustrating when you are holding the other end of the leash in the rain. I don't think he was holding back intentional, it just didn't flow very long. Now he is able to relieve himself completely at one time. I have no idea why. However is a major advantage.
We also did not see behavior of other dogs to him change either. Some got in his face before, some get in his face now. He isn't aggressive, shows good calming signals, friendly to all, etc. However, lately it seems dog parks have more bullies with clueless owners. Jack will not provoke, however he does respond back assertively when attacked. So we no longer go to dog parks, except for boxer bashes.
However health problems are not the issue with males so we waited longer for Jack. I would have preferred not to get it done at all, however we were repeatedly told nonintact males would be aggressive toward Jack. We also got tired of hearing the advice it needs to be done, and since we were not intending to breed it didn't matter. However, we decided to wait at least 12 months before neutering to give hormones a little more time. The actual deed occurred at about 14 months. Next time I would wait to 18 months.
In hindsight, it did not affect his behavior in any way with one notable exception. When intact, it would take several leg liftings before he could completely relieve himself. Or we would need to take several trips outside. Which is frustrating when you are holding the other end of the leash in the rain. I don't think he was holding back intentional, it just didn't flow very long. Now he is able to relieve himself completely at one time. I have no idea why. However is a major advantage.
We also did not see behavior of other dogs to him change either. Some got in his face before, some get in his face now. He isn't aggressive, shows good calming signals, friendly to all, etc. However, lately it seems dog parks have more bullies with clueless owners. Jack will not provoke, however he does respond back assertively when attacked. So we no longer go to dog parks, except for boxer bashes.
!!