Yes, a 12 year old dog can be neutered as long as your veterinarian deems them healthy enough. However, additional precautions may need to be taken when neutering an older dog due to the increased risk of complications. It is important to consult your veterinarian to determine if neutering an older dog is the best option for your particular situation.
What are the side effects of neutering an older dog?
The side effects of neutering an older dog are typically minimal, but can vary depending on the age and health of the dog. Common side effects include a decrease in roaming behavior, irritability, frequent urination, fighting, and aggressive guarding. There is also evidence that early neutering can slightly increase a dog’s adult height and can increase the risk of certain joint disorders and certain types of cancer. The likelihood of these negative health outcomes varies depending on the individual dog’s age and health.
How late is too late to neuter a dog?
Generally, it is recommended that dogs be neutered between the ages of 6 to 9 months. However, it is never too late to neuter your dog. As long as your dog is healthy, any age is suitable for neutering. Neutering older dogs is beneficial in reducing the risk of certain types of cancers and other health issues.
Can a dog be too old to neuter?
Yes, it is possible for a dog to be too old to be neutered. It is generally recommended that dogs be neutered before they reach six to nine months of age. However, if a dog is healthy and the procedure can be performed safely, there is no specific age limit for neutering a dog. It is important to consider the potential risks and benefits associated with neutering a dog of any age, and to consult with your veterinarian before making the decision to neuter.
Does neutering an older dog change their personality?
Generally speaking, neutering an older dog will not drastically change their personality. However, the procedure may lead to some subtle changes in behavior. Neutering removes the male sex hormones, including testosterone, from the dog’s body. This can lead to a decrease in sexually driven behaviors, such as marking, roaming, and mounting. Additionally, neutering can reduce aggressive behaviors, such as fighting and territorial behavior, in male dogs. It is important to note that some of these behaviors may also be learned, and neutering may not have an effect on them. In general, though, neutering an older dog should not change their personality drastically.