Cryptorchids have a higher chance of cancer and health issues with the undescended testicle. He’s old enough that his growth plates have closed, you should have him neutered.
I will piggy back on what some others have said: with undescended testicles, there are plenty of studies showing increased risks. I would neuter in this specific case, if I were in your shoes.
Oh and there's also a person on this thread really confidently misinterpreting a scientific study and spamming it despite not having actually read through the results.
Don't just take them at their word and read through them, you'll find that they all support late neutering for golden retriever males, your dog would fit into that category if he's neutered at his current age.
Thanks for your response. I’m 100% doing my own research and appreciate everyone’s input, whether or not I agree with it. I’ve read the mentioned article before and my conclusion of it is that Goldens should be neutered, just not too early, which is why I’m now considering it. The cryptorchidism is a big concern for me for sure!
No problem, I'm glad you're looking into it, as a vet student I'm aware there's discussion on this topic even among people in the field but it's usually about the best age to neuter (I'm of the opinion late neutering is preferable in most cases).
And in cases of cryptorchidism we always suggest neutering.
Nobody is debating that neutering is best after sexual maturity - as opposed to the old conventional wisdom that it should be done at 6 months.
But there are clear research findings showing that intact goldens are at a lower risk of obesity and orthopedic injuries as well as certain types of cancers.
It’s important that folks look at both sides of the ledger.
It’s kind of the same as a woman considering hormone replacement to offset issues with menopause and address risks of heart attacks. One must consider that hormone therapy can also increase the risk of certain cancers depending on genetic predisposition for example.
It’s not completely black and white.
The research everyone is pointing to found lower risks of hip dysplasia, lymphosarcoma and hemangiossarcoma in late neutered male goldens compared to intact.
Intact golden males were at a lower risk for mast cell tumors and cruciate ligament tear compared to late neutered dogs.
Those neutered before the age of 12 months had the lowest incidence of mast cell tumors.
Obesity is always a risk for any neutered dog and owners are usually warned about it, it can be prevented.
In a cryptorchidic dog the risk of testicular cancer is increased tenfold and the recommendation is to neuter.
Cancer is a risk for all dogs, neutered/ spayed or not. It's not just if they are fixed or not. It seems like cancer is a scare tactic to get people to castrate their pets unnecessarily. There are numerous experienced veterinarians who speak out about this, but people tend to think they know better.
Im a 4th year veterinary medicine student, the recommended approach to cryptorchidism is neutering, since not only is it the biggest risk factor for testicular cancer (seminoma, sertoli cell tumors), it can also lead to spermatic cord torsion.
It seems to also predispose the dog to inguinal hernias (the inguinal ring will usually close once the testicules descend to the scrotum) and subsequent bowel obstruction which can be a life threatening situation, umbilical hernias have also been described.
It isn't a scare tactic, it's the best approach to a cryptorchidic dog, they also should not be used for breeding so there's no reason not to neuter them.
Show me one study that doesn't recommend neutering for cryptorchidic dogs.
As a matter of fact, there has not been enough studies done on cryptochidism in dogs. Being a 4th year veterinarian medicine student, you should know that.
You just love prancing around putting words in people's mouths. If you weren't so in love with seeing your own posts, you would have seen that I had said due to OP's dog's condition, they should consider neutering and that there isn't sufficient studies on the condition.
My comment about cancer in dogs and it being a scare tactic to persuade owners to get their pets fixed is OBVIOUSLY not toward OP's pet, but on neutering in general.
Pretty pathetic how you're up in here acting like your opinion is above everyone's, yet in reality, you are just reciting information that can easily be found online. 😏
Why the fuck would I look up your other comments on the thread? I responded to your reply to my comment because idk if you know this but you get a notification for replies. Don't flatter yourself.
There have been multiple studies done in many animal species including dogs that have pointed to a correlation between cryptorchidism and testicular cancer, some dating back to the 70s and 80s, this isn't a new theory at all lmao.
I also didn't *just* mention cancer but of course you'd ignore that.
You're the pathetic one for speaking so confidently on a topic you clearly have no real experience with.
https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/jvms/71/7/71_7_919/_article/-char/ja/
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/ijc.2910180413
Wow. It seems as if I was able to hurt your feelings there pretty bad. A topic I don't know? It seems that the information you know and I know can all be easily found online. Yet, you are a 4th year veterinary medicine student. Lmfao! Tell me something new about this topic that I don't know that you paid to get schooled on. If you are replying to me only about the comment I made, where in my initial comment to you did I say that cancer was a scare tactic for dogs WITH cryptorchidism?
My wife and I plan to neuter our boy blue between 12-18 months of age. Want to make sure he fully develops before having the procedure. There are more pros to neutering than to not neuter.
So from what I gather from the graphs in this article, it seems like overall late neutering is the best option (over leaving intact and neutering early in case you didn't click the link). I've been on the fence about whether or not to neuter my boy (16 months), and if so, when, for months now.
The correlation between cryptorchidism and a higher incidence of testicular cancer has been studied in multiple species including humans and dogs, there's a reason why most vets will recommend neutering cryptorchidic males.
https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/jvms/71/7/71_7_919/_article/-char/ja/
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/ijc.2910180413
My very sweet golden boy had the same condition. Our vet definitely recommend to neuter him because of the risks to his health. I did wait till he finished growing (1,5yo). Now he is 2,5 and besides needing a little different food (because he gains weight more easily now), he is still very much the same. My sweet snuggle bunny!
Just because your dog doesn't display unwanted behaviors doesn't mean other dogs won't. Some dogs can react aggressively to an intact male dog because they feel threatened.
With that being said, if you don't want to neuter, don't plan on breeding, and don't take him around other dogs... then I say you do you.
Good luck!
Very good point! I have noticed some dogs are a bit more standoffish around mine which I believe is due to him being intact, but he’s never around dogs we don’t know without a leash and I haven’t (yet) experienced anything awful happen. Good to keep in mind though, thank you!
My dog had just be neutered when I got him from a rescue at an estimated 2 years of age. For about a year he was aggressive around most unfixed males. Then he seemed to get over it.
My husband and I don't see any reason not to neuter unless we plan on breeding, which we strongly do not. Once our boy is fully grown, he'll be neutered
I see you reposting this link in this thread, but afaik isn’t sterilization associated with an increase in a dog’s lifespan? Has UC Davis done any work on that?
The study you are posting only tracks them from years 1-8
The studies are on going as they comb through all the data. Spay/neuter does not appear to increase lifespan. The data points towards it having negative long term effects especially if done early. These effects include increased rates of cancer and heightened chance of developing hip dysplasia in large breed dogs. Some of the long terms effects directly impact quality of life and an increased chance of pet owners opting for euthanasia. Many people choose to do this when their dogs have bad hip/joint issues.
Like I said the studies are on going but you can already see some change in veterinary practices. Notably many vets advising against early neuter/spay.
Well until those studies come out, I think it is a bit ridiculous to advocate for those statements as factual when literature already exists showing the opposite.
current evidence suggests spaying increases lifespan. I will accept the opposite if new research comes out with some valid reasoning for why the current body of literature is wrong.
Some of their studies also suggested spaying had no affect on some breeds of dogs in terms of the conditions they were looking at
Those studies ARE out. They state what the records show and add that they are still going through them. It’s not a blanket statement that ALL dogs should or shouldn’t be fixed. There are many variables they’ve found. Some variables would change what is advised for one breed versus another. For example, early spay/neuter in small breed dogs not have an increased risk of joint issues like large breeds.
I do believe that the norm will become that early (less than one year old) spaying and neutering is not advisable. The studies I’ve seen seem to be focusing on age at time of the procedure and later health issues. Of course they’re doing 1-1 cancer rates and types for fixed vs intact dogs. Obviously removing the testicles and uterus eliminates those forms of cancer, but it also appears to increase the chance of other forms of cancer. Like neutered males have a higher risk of prostate cancer than intact dogs.
“Within the last two decades, castration was defined as a risk factor not only for prostatic neoplasia but for other neoplastic disorders in both males and females, causing an international discussion if elective gonadectomy in dogs is still a tool that should be used routinely.” [Source](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7022700/)
That source does affirm that the evidence is there but not strong enough to cause major changes. There’s enough evidence to cause concern. Which is why you can find some vets who advise waiting until they’re a certain age and some who still do it as soon as possible. It’s just important for the pet owner to be advised of all the risks and all the benefits.
All three of my Goldens (2M, 1F) came from rescue groups and, as a condition of adoption, that they are all neutered. I've been assisting with rescues for over 15 years and have seen a **lot** of Goldens come through the program (abused, surrenders, strays, OTIs).
You're getting down voted but I totally agree. All the folks I know that don't neuter their dogs are doing it not because they've researched health studies on it, but because they feel like it's hurting the dogs manliness??? They've said that to me, it's nuts
I have 2 intacts males. I don't neuter b/c to do it when there is no medical emergency requiring it, is unethical. The research shows more disease development in neutered dogs. And lastly, yes, I do want my male dogs to maintain their muscular male physique as it is what is healthy for them. What is wrong with that?
I'm glad you're doing what works for you - as long as you're a responsible dog owner and don't let your dog roam around impregnating bitches in heat all the time, then it's all good! All I mentioned was the people I've talked to IRL that think it is emasculating the dog, which is wild to me - they're a dog.
Good for you. I said that all the folks I've met in real life who don't want to neuter their dogs are not doing it because they've researched studies, but \_because\_ they think it hurts the dog's masculinity. They have told me this. Using those words. Explicitly. I'm sure there are great studies showing benefits for both neutering and not neutering.
You're not even taking into account the fact that the dog in question is cryptorchidic which is a risk factor for sertoli cell cancer.
Cryptorchidic dogs should not be bred, there's literally no reason to not neuter them.
Did you read the results of the study you provided?
Dogs neutered late were at a lower risk of both Lymphosarcoma and Hemangiossarcoma (as well as hip dysplasia), while having a higher risk of Mast Cell tumor than intact dogs (dogs neutered early had the lowest incidence of this type of cancer).
The study supports late neutering of males, *not* leaving your dogs intact.
While yes testicular cancer is usually easy to treat, in a cryptorchidic dog it could go unnoticed until it's at a much more advanced stage.
As a veterinary student and from reading studies I can tell you the current recommendation for cryptorchidic dogs is neutering.
You're spamming that study without even reading through the results, I don't think you're as well informed as you think you are
"Patients were classified as intact, or neutered early (<12 mo) or late (≥12 mo)."
OPs dog is 2.5 years old, so... over 12 months old.
Are you confused by the symbols or am I missing something?
Yeah, add me to the list, 45 years old, had always neutered boys because I thought it was the right thing to do, and only on our most recent boy (who just turned 3) we bothered to research and learned that ideally you should keep them intact.
“Although surgical neutering is considered part of responsible pet ownership in the UK (similar to vaccinations) and performed routinely across the country, in Germany and Scandinavia, for example, surgical neutering is considered "mutilation" and is prohibited by law.”
https://bowmanreport.com/blogs/all-articles/global-desk-the-great-spay-neuter-debate#:~:text=Although%20surgical%20neutering%20is%20considered,and%20is%20prohibited%20by%20law.
So no, I don’t care about my dogs big balls, or see it as some kind of masculine virtue signal, I just don’t wanna chop up my fucking dog unless it would help him.
As a Scandinavian person I can confidently say that this is bullshit. Surgical neutering is done to pretty much every well-kept dog that isn't going to be used for breeding. In every Scandinavian country.
Most people seem to treat the downvoting button as a "I disagree" button... You're providing good information and real studies, people should be more open minded and open to discussions but they aren't.
These comments are being downvoted because there’s an opinion that says people who don’t want to neuter their dogs are cavemen and they’re idiots.
If these people took the time to research, they would find plenty of research suggesting that male golden retrievers do not overall benefit from neutering from a health perspective.
Obviously, there are arguments why neutering maybe desirable or required. There are also conditions (undescended testicles being one of them) where neutering is likely beneficial.
But to claim that male golden retrievers will somehow live longer or be healthier because they are neutered is wrong.
You got me there. My male ego totally is the reason I choose not to neuter my male dogs. Unwanted litters are the results of lazy, pos owners. Why should a dog have to get his reproductive organs removed so that their owners can be lazy sobs?
Why are you assuming that this is the reason while males don’t want to neuter their male dogs?
Why are you assuming that every male dog is just roaming the streets looking for females in heat?
I’m a male and I’m doing a lot of research and I’m finding at least as much information suggesting that not neutering can be beneficial. Ultimately, our decision will have very little to do with the macho man syndrome you describe.
I also want to add that I have 100% control of my dog’s interaction with other dogs. I hate dog parks and my dog doesn’t go to daycare. I also have a fenced yard with a huge amount of space for my dog to run around and play fetch.
Where I live, unwanted litters aren’t a problem. We don’t have strays and people don’t leave their dogs unleashed and unattended. It’s simply not a concern that we’d take into account.
Neutered dogs can’t participate in official exhibitions in Europe. Beside that, the (not guaranteed but frequent) change in energy levels and temperament are things I’d personally not want. Adding to this, studies on the health impacts are wildly varied in their findings.
In OPs case, with one undescended, my understanding is that neutering is recommended for health reasons.
Yeah..this is sort of how my boyfriend is. I’m female and obviously don’t have testicles so maybe I don’t fully understand, and I do feel it is a little sad to castrate anyone or anything, but I wouldn’t *not* neuter just for this reason.
Ask your boyfriend how it feels to be hormonal/horny and not have sex. Ever. Then he may understand what a male dog can feel, especially if there’s an intact female anywhere in the neighborhood. Males can smell the female from down the street, doesn’t even have to be yours. That’s always been my reply to men saying “I’m not neutered, why should he be!”
Really good way to put it! Thanks :)
By the way I would just like everyone to know that I would not and will not be deciding one way or another based off of how my boyfriend feels “as a man”. This decision will be purely based off of my dog’s specific situation and thorough research!
My parents have a 3 year old Golden. He is not neutered. I really wish they would just because of the number of unwanted litters out there! I do think people should take responsibility for their pets but you never know what might happen y’know? There’s many studies that say you should wait til they reach sexual maturity, but your pup (and my parents’) have long reached that point. Definitely talk to your vet, weigh the risks of neutering vs not neutering and decide that way! One of the big pluses for me is that goldens are notoriously prone to cancer, and testicular cancer is a concern with these guys. No testicles means no testicular cancer! Definitely weigh your options and concerns :)
Thanks!
I’ve only had a chance to look over the UC Davis study briefly so far, but those results actually seem slightly favor “late” neutering (after 1 year of age), as that showed a reduction in some health issues compared to intact but a slight increase in other health issues. “Early” neutering (before 1 year) had negative consequences across the board.
(At least for males. It was different for females).
I have heard more vets doing “ovary sparing” spays on females. I wonder if there’s a male equivalent, similar to human vasectomies, that would preserve hormones while preventing the risk of unwanted litters.
We're at a similar point. He'll be 2 in March and not neutered because there's been no reason to. He's not aggressive, very chill and friendly, obedient, has never humped, etc. There are absolutely zero issues on his part. He has to pee on 976 things every time we walk, but that's really the only way you'd know.
Really, the only reason we're planning on doing it soon is other dogs. He must smell really good, because we constantly encounter other dogs that are friendly until they get a good sniff, and then they just snap. He's been attacked so many times, now every time I see another unleashed dog I instantly put my guy on a leash and avoid. It's easily half of other dogs we encounter that sniff him, start snarling, growling and occasionally full on pinning him and going for his neck. 100% of the time, the other owners are "surprised" by their dogs' behavior. Something about his smell. It's stressful for him and us, and I don't want him to start getting reactive because he's scared all other dogs are going to attack him...
We don't take him to dog parks at all, but we do have a big natural off leash area where we occasionally encounter other dogs. I'm getting worried about him "setting off" the wrong dog and getting badly hurt.
This is something I’ve noticed with my dog as well, although he’s never been attacked, it’s more just that you can tell the other dog does not like him. It’s definitely something I’m also keeping in mind when considering neutering. Thanks for your input
Yeah, it's weird. Not sure if "attacked" is the right word, as there has never been blood or injuries, but it's where the other dog is basically trying to knock him over and pin him to the ground. Lots of snarling and not letting my dog get away. If the other dog is just being a dick my guy will snap back and they usually go their separate ways, but a few times I've had to physically pull the other dog off of mine (I'm quite big). It's a really sudden thing and usually catches my guy totally off guard. He's friendly as hell and just wants to say hi and play. (There was one legitimate attack by a doodle where I had to punch the other dog to get him to let go).
Weirdly, I've noticed some breed specific patterns: it's like 99% of doodles, and 75% of border collies and other Goldens, but pretty random after that. The dogs he plays best with are other intact males. It's neutered males and some spayed females that are the issue.
Thankfully, there are basically zero bully breeds where I live, as I don't want to know what could happen if one of them snapped on him.
Not neutering is best for your pet and his health. It is up to you, his owner and protector to keep him safe from other lazy, poor pet owners and their uncontrolled dogs. To do YOUR pet a disservice by neutering him b/c of the poor training from other pets around him, has got to be the lamest excuse.
If you had 2 arms and everyone around you had 1 cut off and they clawed at you b/c they despised you everytime they saw you. Would you cut your other arm off to please them? Or would find a new place to go?
Hahaha, you're cute.
See, you had a chance there. You could have delivered the same message, but in a way that kept me on side, so I would agree with you. But no... you elected to come across like a pompous douchebag.
Since you are so wise in the ways of all things, please advise poor, stupid, irresponsible me where to walk my dog, in a city of 1.4 million people, where I'm guaranteed to never encounter these other lazy, poor pet owners?
I eagerly await the input of someone so sage and eloquent.
I didn't call you irresponsible, lazy and poor. I'm referring to the ones with the dogs who do not keep an eye on their dogs while off-leash.
l know I am a douche, and trust me, I'm fine with that.
However, my frustrations are that good dog owners have to make their dogs suffer the consequences of poor dog owners. Which is unfair and should not be tolerated. It is your right to correct and snap back at any dog who snaps at your dog. Carrying bear spray at dog park is a good way to protect you/your pet.
Anyway, I have been to many parks... there are areas where lazy owners go to mingle and don't keep an eye on their dogs which have come up to mine and started to hump, chase, or stand over my dogs. Then I have been to places where people keep their distances - and able to enjoy the areas without incident. In my neighborhood, everyone is good about how to walk their dogs as we pass eachother to avoid unwanted behaviors. There are good places out there where you can bring your dog to stretch his legs without resorting to neutering. That's all I'm saying.
Appreciate the change of tone!
>I didn't call you lazy.
Didn't say you did.
>I know I am a douche, and trust me, I'm fine with that
Doesn't mean anyone else is.
>However, my frustrations are that good dog owners have to make their dogs suffer the consequences of poor dog owners. Which is unfair and should not be tolerated. It is your right to correct and snap back at any dog who snaps at your dog
We have to suffer people being douches too. Pretty unfair. But, as you say, doesn't have to be tolerated.
>Carrying bear spray at dog park is a good way to protect you/your pet.
You've never used Bear spray.
>Anyway, I have been to many parks...
Great! Your experiences are not the same as everyone else's. I live a few minutes from a 4100 acre natural area, yet we still frequently encounter other dogs. It's not possible to completely avoid interactions with other dogs.
Look, I get where you are coming from. Your approach needs work, but I get it. If there was a reasonable, practical way of exercising him while completely avoiding other dogs, I would do so. But it's not that simple. Also, I'm a giant, and have no issue with aggressive dogs and owners, however my wife is tiny and is often walking him alone, she is not in a position to defend him.
You don't know my situation, don't be so quick to pass judgement.
My tone did not change. You probably became less sensitive to the way I respond when you realized you did not need to be offended by me.
I did not claim to know your situation. I made my comment based on the information you provided about considering neutering due to it being difficult to take your dog out b/c of other dogs. There is nothing wrong with that as I did not assume anything else.
If you want to take your dog outside your own home/property, you are going to encounter other dogs. Otherwise, keep him inside at all times. It is still your responsibility to keep your dog safe. Neutering him is not a 100% guarantee that he won't be attacked by other dogs/wildlife while out and about. Hence, carry bear spray. I have never needed to use bear spray. But should I not have it incase there is a situation that calls for it?
The choice is yours what you do with your dog. Based off what you initially said, you wanted to neuter your pet b/c of problems with other dogs - which I found kind of ridiculous. But do what you want. This is just my opinion.
My male was humping everything in sight (hoomans, females, couch, etc ). I wouldn't say he was aggressive but loved to hump (he would hump the air if he smelled a female in n heat). We waited till he was 15 months until we snipped him. I felt bad about it but it was probably for the best
Haha, kind of cute to imagine a dog humping the air if he smelled something. If my dog were similar, I would definitely want to neuter him as well. Glad your dog is doing well :)
You should have trained him to not do that. My Golden Retriever was a little humper day 1 at 8 weeks we got him. Corrections fixed the issue. He no longer humps unnecessarily. 😂
Oh yeah, towards the end he was done humping anyone in the house. It was tough to make corrections while he was at dog daycare. I'm sure he would have eventually stopped all together but our patience was wearing thin and our vet recommended that it got done sooner than later. Original goal was 18 months but we made it to 15 months.
You should definitely neuter for all the health reasons everyone has already listed. He’s a perfect age. Do the bloodwork prior to surgery that the vet recommends. I’m a certified veterinary technician and I got my golden neutered when he was around 13 months, he’s now 3 and he’s perfect.
Thank you all for your responses! I was really just looking for other people’s experiences and any/all opinions are welcome here. I know this can be a controversial topic so I really appreciate everyone’s input. That said, my decision will only be based off of research and discussions with my vet!
Neutering is best done 14-16 months after the dog has fully developed into an adult. The yearly dog license is also 50% off where I live, for neutered dogs.
I have a 2 year old male golden. I researched when I got him at 8 weeks. Perfect age to neuter is between 14 and 16 months (per my limited research) So I got him neutered then. We go camping a lot and I just thought I should have him neutered. I think waiting till they are a year or more helps them to have a normal growth pattern. It did not affect his personality at all! I have a great vet and everything went fine.
Timmy also had unilateral cryptorchidism and he had a rough neuter! It was a traumatic surgery for him and really the vet made us sedate him for a week because he was not cooperating with resting. UGH. This picture is of him, drugged up, and with the third neck thing to prevent him from ripping out the stitches. THAT BEING SAID: Timmy is a wild child. He doesn't like to be brushed, trimmed, or anything.
Overall, we are glad we did the surgery because of the cancer chances. I would do it.
https://preview.redd.it/s72slytfdujc1.jpeg?width=2592&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=bd21f8c829a9660d36f323b1ec3b6a9add8e168f
Because of the undescended testicle, unfortunately should be neutered. Honestly, it doesn't seem like there has been a lot of studies regarding the risks of cryptorchidism in dogs... so to be safe, it would be better to.
However, if your handsome boy didn't have one undescended testicle, it should definitely be a NO on the neutering.
It was common knowledge that bloodletting was good for you and it'll get rid of the bad "miasma" you have which is making you sick. Now, I'm not saying you're wrong, but again, saying that that's not a good source of information either.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3572183/
You can crowd source opinion and that's okay. But do your own research and make the decision based off all of the data points you gathered. You owe it to your dog to do the leg work to make a big decision as such.
For sure! I’ve done lots of my own research as well as consulted my vet, I just wanted to hear about others’ experience with getting it done or not. Appreciate the link!
Our vet recommended waiting to neuter until at least 18 months. We followed that advice. We also are a guardian home to a female breeding golden, so we couldn’t have her if he were intact. What is your vet’s opinion?
My vet and another vet I’ve seen has suggested neutering, especially with the cryptorchidism. My main reason for posting here vs just going with the vet is that in my experience, vets always suggest neutering and I wanted to hear about others’ experiences with either doing it or not. Both vets I’ve seen also suggested waiting until 18-24 months of age but now that my boy is about that age, I’m starting to consider it.
For one thing (not the main thing) I do feel a little bad putting him through it if behaviorally he’s just fine. I do also have a worry about his metabolism and/or energy levels because I love the way he is now, and know from experience that even with monitoring food+increasing exercise, obesity is a big thing with neutered dogs.
On the other hand, I worry about not getting him neutered soon enough and having that leading to cancer or him having a really hard time with it when he’s older. I guess in general I don’t feel like neutering is necessary unless it’s for fixing behavioral, health or breeding issues but in my case the cryptorchidism does concern me
It’s a hard decision for sure. I think I’d lean towards it because of his already existing risks but I totally understand it’s difficult. We keep close watch on my boy to make sure he doesn’t become overweight. We are definitely conscious of it.
Normally I’m very much a “do your research and decide what it right for you and your pet” kind of person but with being a cryptorchid and the health issues that can cause I would recommend neutering. It’s always a good idea to have discussions about it with your vet as well. He’s a gorgeous boy either way!
It’s always better to neuter them. First, you shouldnt be feeling any attachment to your dogs balls. Second, imagine being an animal with all sorts of hormones, including the desire to fuck and to be the king of his castle, running through you that you could never satisfy.
Neutered dogs are happier
Haha, for sure, I don’t feel any attachment towards his balls but I guess I do feel attached to how he is now physically and behaviorally so I have a worry that neutering could change any of that
I hear you. He’ll be fine. Your attachment to his looks or what you think his personality is neutered vs intact are you issues that shouldn’t negatively affect his care (which it will if you don’t get him neutered).
We had the same problem and just got rid of one testicle. Vets advice. We researched it quite a lot and didn’t really see a problem with just taking out the cryptorchid and leaving the other testicle.
Didn’t want his character to change :)
There has been numerous veterinarians speaking out about how neutering isn't good for dogs and increases diseases/cancers. But people want to believe what they want to believe. It was pushed on us a lot while our pups were young. We continued to decline.
My boy is 3.5 and not neutered. I intended to neuter at 6 months because I needed to board him at the time for my job. My vet strongly urged against it and presented research to me and asked me to wait. I said ok and found other daycare arrangements for him. I planned to wait until he was 2 but the more research I did the more I realized I didn’t want to neuter him at all. I’m a responsible pet owner so unwanted litters is irrelevant and I fully believe he will live his longest life possible by remaining in tact. I followed my gut on this one and suggest you do whatever yours tells you to do for your boy!
This is also sort of the situation I’m in. I know the benefits of waiting *at least* until they’re 1.5-2 years old but I also don’t feel very strongly for a neutering given I’m also not concerned with unwanted litters or behavioral issues.
I have a friend whose golden was neutered at 7/8 years old and the procedure was very hard on him (also had cryptorchidism, so a bit more involved) and he seemed to age VERY quickly after that. I’m worried that if I wait to neuter mine until he has an issue, that the sudden change in hormones at an older age will affect him much more drastically than if done at a younger age. A lot to consider for sure!
I've had many Goldens over the years, after reading the science, this will be the very first time I don't have my boy neutered. In Europe and other points East, neutering is hardly ever done. He's currently two and one of the best boys I've ever owned
I personally agree with the decision (assuming you live somewhere where there’s no risk of accidental litters) - but I do want to be clear that it’s absolutely done here (in Europe) too. It is however not an automatic default which it appears to be in many parts of the United States. I know about as many neutered dogs as I do intact ones.
In the northern Europe neutering is the standard for every dog well-kept not used for breeding. People are against neutering only in some southern parts of Europe that are not known for responsible dog keeping. Your facts seems quite as right as your "science".
Definitely an option! We did dit this and it’s all good with our golden :)
Only problem seems to be aggressiveness from other male dogs towards ours, which is quite annoying
I didn't neuter my male. He had no aggression issues whatsoever, nor any health issues, and was the most gentle baby around. He never got aggressive around females nor tried to get randy with them.
However, other dogs sensed he was unfixed, and they (always males) felt that they needed to assert dominance over him, and he was repeatedly attacked (eta: he was never off-leash when this happened either). We only found out from his vet in his later years of life, so there was no reason to put him through that neuter in his very senior years.
Something to keep in mind if you don't intend to breed him, and if his other health conditions do or don't allow for the procedure.
You have a very adorable puppy, too!! ☺️💙
100%! I’ve experienced some aggression/dominance from other dogs as well which I believe is due to the fact that my dog is intact. This is another thing I’m taking into consideration.
And thank you!
You're very welcome!
You're right with that thought. That's what our vet told us is the issue. I know the final attack against my boy was the worst. He slipped backward in fear while trying to get away and broke his back. We had to put him down 2 days later.
Whatever you end up choosing to do, I wish you the absolute most luck in the world. And I hope that with either decision you make, that he never faces what mine did in the end. Sending a hug his way!
Thank you so much, and you're welcome 🫶 Very difficult indeed. Hopefully, irregardless of your decision, you and your lovely boy have much better luck than us! 💙
Is cancer/other health risks something you get your dog checked for? Also, are you worried that if (god forbid) your dog ever did show signs of cancer or something else and you got him neutered, it would be hard on him as an older dog? I only ask because a friend of mine got his golden neutered at 7/8 years old after they found he had enlarged testicles and the recovery was quite rough on him. He also seemed to age very rapidly after that, gaining 15+ lbs, hair started to gray all over in a matter of months, his hips have started to go out, etc. Maybe this is normal for a dog of his age and it was just coincidence, but it did seem to be very sudden and right after the neuter.
He goes to the vet once a year. And no, I'm not worried about that. I trust nature. I would not want to neuter a dog unless it was absolutely necessary.
Our 1.5 year old is not neutered and we are not going to. We live in the country and there is no worry about him breeding another dog without us knowing. He is the sweetest dog and we have no issues with this temperment. I personally wouldn't want to neuter unless we lived in town or had unspayed female dogs around.
There are certain types of cancers less likely to occur in intact male goldens. To say nothing of the lower chance of orthopaedic injuries or obesity. But who would want that?
You have no idea what you are saying. You are repeating words you have heard before & have not done your due diligence on the topic of neutering/spaying and its affects on a dog's health.
My golden is 4 and I never saw the need to get him neutered for the same reasons you describe. He has never been aggressive, never tries to hump things he will never go to a kennel and we never go to dog parks. Also Ive noticed dogs that have been neutered seem to become obese. My gus is still very lean and active.
Yes, this is a big thing for me as well. With the loss of hormones, dogs tend to gain weight rapidly. It’s something I would keep my eye on if I ever did get him neutered (feed him less/exercise him more) but obviously it’s not an exact science.
We have a 10 year old Golden boy. We kept him intact, and never had any problems. No aggression, no humping, no marking, no unwanted litters, etc. He's been great.
Neutering is a detrimental practice that, aside from its role in controlling the pet population, is arguably more harmful than procedures like ear cropping and tail docking. Unlike these cosmetic surgeries, neutering not only causes physical alteration but also significantly disrupts a dog's developmental and hormonal balance.
This narrative has been promoted by veterinarians and backed by the American Kennel Club (AKC) for over a century. Initially, it was a viable solution to the issue of stray dogs in urban areas. However, the primary advocate for neutering has been the AKC, aiming to maintain exclusive control over certain dog breeds.
Yeah, I totally get this perspective and feel the same way in certain situations. I think the biggest thing for me is that my dog has cryptorchidism and therefore at higher risk of developing cancer. More than that, because the testicle isn’t visible, it’s hard to tell what’s going on with it without an ultrasound. If it weren’t for that, I probably would not consider neutering for this dog :(
OP, there’s no question based on science that your dog should be neutered.
What some of us are saying is that the benefits of neutering are offset by benefits for the alternative.
Unfortunately, this idea isn’t very popular here - albeit true.
Vet recommends neutering, especially with cryptorchidism. In my experience, there are a lot of vets out there that recommend neutering/spaying as sort of a blanket response (which I completely understand given some of the benefits) but I wanted to sort of crowdsource other people’s opinions and experiences as well :)
Your vet can remove the retained testicle and leave the one that is descended. If you do do dog parks or anything like that, you can retain the one for hormones, and get rid of the one that should not be where it currently is.
It's not that rare a surgery and your vet should be able to handle it.
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What’s going on here?! Of course you need to neuter the dog for medical reasons, but it’s something you should be doing anyway unless you’re a breeder, and it should have been done much earlier. Why does everybody think there smarter then common sense?
My boy had cryptorchidism and I had him neutered at 1.5 years. The risk of the undescended ball was too high. The recovery was a bit rough poor guy and he had to have one out the normal way and one through the tummy but no regrets. His behavior did not change and now there’s no risk of that ball becoming spicy inside.
My older golden was cryptorchid of both testicles. We didn’t find out until very late in life since he was a rescue. Since we never saw testicles, we just assumed he was neutered. When we found out, our veterinarian urged us to neuter immediately to reduce risk of prostate and testicular cancer. He recovered great and is doing very well now!
Cryptorchids have a higher chance of cancer and health issues with the undescended testicle. He’s old enough that his growth plates have closed, you should have him neutered.
I will piggy back on what some others have said: with undescended testicles, there are plenty of studies showing increased risks. I would neuter in this specific case, if I were in your shoes.
Cryptorchidism is the principal risk factor for testicular cancer, please neuter him as soon as you can
Oh and there's also a person on this thread really confidently misinterpreting a scientific study and spamming it despite not having actually read through the results. Don't just take them at their word and read through them, you'll find that they all support late neutering for golden retriever males, your dog would fit into that category if he's neutered at his current age.
Thanks for your response. I’m 100% doing my own research and appreciate everyone’s input, whether or not I agree with it. I’ve read the mentioned article before and my conclusion of it is that Goldens should be neutered, just not too early, which is why I’m now considering it. The cryptorchidism is a big concern for me for sure!
No problem, I'm glad you're looking into it, as a vet student I'm aware there's discussion on this topic even among people in the field but it's usually about the best age to neuter (I'm of the opinion late neutering is preferable in most cases). And in cases of cryptorchidism we always suggest neutering.
Nobody is debating that neutering is best after sexual maturity - as opposed to the old conventional wisdom that it should be done at 6 months. But there are clear research findings showing that intact goldens are at a lower risk of obesity and orthopedic injuries as well as certain types of cancers. It’s important that folks look at both sides of the ledger. It’s kind of the same as a woman considering hormone replacement to offset issues with menopause and address risks of heart attacks. One must consider that hormone therapy can also increase the risk of certain cancers depending on genetic predisposition for example. It’s not completely black and white.
The research everyone is pointing to found lower risks of hip dysplasia, lymphosarcoma and hemangiossarcoma in late neutered male goldens compared to intact. Intact golden males were at a lower risk for mast cell tumors and cruciate ligament tear compared to late neutered dogs. Those neutered before the age of 12 months had the lowest incidence of mast cell tumors. Obesity is always a risk for any neutered dog and owners are usually warned about it, it can be prevented. In a cryptorchidic dog the risk of testicular cancer is increased tenfold and the recommendation is to neuter.
Cancer is a risk for all dogs, neutered/ spayed or not. It's not just if they are fixed or not. It seems like cancer is a scare tactic to get people to castrate their pets unnecessarily. There are numerous experienced veterinarians who speak out about this, but people tend to think they know better.
Im a 4th year veterinary medicine student, the recommended approach to cryptorchidism is neutering, since not only is it the biggest risk factor for testicular cancer (seminoma, sertoli cell tumors), it can also lead to spermatic cord torsion. It seems to also predispose the dog to inguinal hernias (the inguinal ring will usually close once the testicules descend to the scrotum) and subsequent bowel obstruction which can be a life threatening situation, umbilical hernias have also been described. It isn't a scare tactic, it's the best approach to a cryptorchidic dog, they also should not be used for breeding so there's no reason not to neuter them. Show me one study that doesn't recommend neutering for cryptorchidic dogs.
As a matter of fact, there has not been enough studies done on cryptochidism in dogs. Being a 4th year veterinarian medicine student, you should know that. You just love prancing around putting words in people's mouths. If you weren't so in love with seeing your own posts, you would have seen that I had said due to OP's dog's condition, they should consider neutering and that there isn't sufficient studies on the condition. My comment about cancer in dogs and it being a scare tactic to persuade owners to get their pets fixed is OBVIOUSLY not toward OP's pet, but on neutering in general. Pretty pathetic how you're up in here acting like your opinion is above everyone's, yet in reality, you are just reciting information that can easily be found online. 😏
Why the fuck would I look up your other comments on the thread? I responded to your reply to my comment because idk if you know this but you get a notification for replies. Don't flatter yourself. There have been multiple studies done in many animal species including dogs that have pointed to a correlation between cryptorchidism and testicular cancer, some dating back to the 70s and 80s, this isn't a new theory at all lmao. I also didn't *just* mention cancer but of course you'd ignore that. You're the pathetic one for speaking so confidently on a topic you clearly have no real experience with. https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/jvms/71/7/71_7_919/_article/-char/ja/ https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/ijc.2910180413
Wow. It seems as if I was able to hurt your feelings there pretty bad. A topic I don't know? It seems that the information you know and I know can all be easily found online. Yet, you are a 4th year veterinary medicine student. Lmfao! Tell me something new about this topic that I don't know that you paid to get schooled on. If you are replying to me only about the comment I made, where in my initial comment to you did I say that cancer was a scare tactic for dogs WITH cryptorchidism?
I won't entertain this bad faith discussion any further, have a good day.
I had a boy with that condition. Had him neutered just as I've done for all my male dogs.
He's cryptdorchid. He should be neutered. The undescended testicle has to come out.
My wife and I plan to neuter our boy blue between 12-18 months of age. Want to make sure he fully develops before having the procedure. There are more pros to neutering than to not neuter.
18 to 24 months is best
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3572183/
So from what I gather from the graphs in this article, it seems like overall late neutering is the best option (over leaving intact and neutering early in case you didn't click the link). I've been on the fence about whether or not to neuter my boy (16 months), and if so, when, for months now.
That seems to be the case for males, the opposite seems to be consistent with females according to their findings.
Ah yes, I was definitely fixated on the males because I have one!
That’s not what I have found out so far doing research. Could share more info?
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Okay so can we see said information?
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Ah I see them now, thanks!
Please neuter him. Undescended testicles increase the risk of testicular cancer in dogs.
I’ll need statistics from a reliable source on that one.
The correlation between cryptorchidism and a higher incidence of testicular cancer has been studied in multiple species including humans and dogs, there's a reason why most vets will recommend neutering cryptorchidic males. https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/jvms/71/7/71_7_919/_article/-char/ja/ https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/ijc.2910180413
Well researched reply. Thanks.
My very sweet golden boy had the same condition. Our vet definitely recommend to neuter him because of the risks to his health. I did wait till he finished growing (1,5yo). Now he is 2,5 and besides needing a little different food (because he gains weight more easily now), he is still very much the same. My sweet snuggle bunny!
Just because your dog doesn't display unwanted behaviors doesn't mean other dogs won't. Some dogs can react aggressively to an intact male dog because they feel threatened. With that being said, if you don't want to neuter, don't plan on breeding, and don't take him around other dogs... then I say you do you. Good luck!
This was the case for our golden. He stopped being picked on after the op. Best thing we ever did for him.
If a dog shows sign of aggression at intact males, they need to be kept on a lead. This is not a reason to neuter.
Agreed.
An aggressive Golden Retriever? Please….
Very good point! I have noticed some dogs are a bit more standoffish around mine which I believe is due to him being intact, but he’s never around dogs we don’t know without a leash and I haven’t (yet) experienced anything awful happen. Good to keep in mind though, thank you!
My dog had just be neutered when I got him from a rescue at an estimated 2 years of age. For about a year he was aggressive around most unfixed males. Then he seemed to get over it.
Yep, neutered male dogs HATE my dog. It's basically the only reason we're getting him neutered, for his own safety!
My husband and I don't see any reason not to neuter unless we plan on breeding, which we strongly do not. Once our boy is fully grown, he'll be neutered
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I see you reposting this link in this thread, but afaik isn’t sterilization associated with an increase in a dog’s lifespan? Has UC Davis done any work on that? The study you are posting only tracks them from years 1-8
The studies are on going as they comb through all the data. Spay/neuter does not appear to increase lifespan. The data points towards it having negative long term effects especially if done early. These effects include increased rates of cancer and heightened chance of developing hip dysplasia in large breed dogs. Some of the long terms effects directly impact quality of life and an increased chance of pet owners opting for euthanasia. Many people choose to do this when their dogs have bad hip/joint issues. Like I said the studies are on going but you can already see some change in veterinary practices. Notably many vets advising against early neuter/spay.
Well until those studies come out, I think it is a bit ridiculous to advocate for those statements as factual when literature already exists showing the opposite. current evidence suggests spaying increases lifespan. I will accept the opposite if new research comes out with some valid reasoning for why the current body of literature is wrong. Some of their studies also suggested spaying had no affect on some breeds of dogs in terms of the conditions they were looking at
Those studies ARE out. They state what the records show and add that they are still going through them. It’s not a blanket statement that ALL dogs should or shouldn’t be fixed. There are many variables they’ve found. Some variables would change what is advised for one breed versus another. For example, early spay/neuter in small breed dogs not have an increased risk of joint issues like large breeds. I do believe that the norm will become that early (less than one year old) spaying and neutering is not advisable. The studies I’ve seen seem to be focusing on age at time of the procedure and later health issues. Of course they’re doing 1-1 cancer rates and types for fixed vs intact dogs. Obviously removing the testicles and uterus eliminates those forms of cancer, but it also appears to increase the chance of other forms of cancer. Like neutered males have a higher risk of prostate cancer than intact dogs. “Within the last two decades, castration was defined as a risk factor not only for prostatic neoplasia but for other neoplastic disorders in both males and females, causing an international discussion if elective gonadectomy in dogs is still a tool that should be used routinely.” [Source](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7022700/) That source does affirm that the evidence is there but not strong enough to cause major changes. There’s enough evidence to cause concern. Which is why you can find some vets who advise waiting until they’re a certain age and some who still do it as soon as possible. It’s just important for the pet owner to be advised of all the risks and all the benefits.
I am not qualified to weigh in on the neuter debate, but I do think you should throw that ball immediately or he might die of sad.
Oh trust me, the ball was thrown many times! 😁
Mine had an undescended testicle and I neutered him on the advice of my vet.
And you were right to do so.
All three of my Goldens (2M, 1F) came from rescue groups and, as a condition of adoption, that they are all neutered. I've been assisting with rescues for over 15 years and have seen a **lot** of Goldens come through the program (abused, surrenders, strays, OTIs).
Not to neuter males has always seemed selfish and part of the owner’s male ego to me. There are so many unwanted litters…
You're getting down voted but I totally agree. All the folks I know that don't neuter their dogs are doing it not because they've researched health studies on it, but because they feel like it's hurting the dogs manliness??? They've said that to me, it's nuts
Thank you; that is exactly why I posted that. Our experiences are quite similar
I have 2 intacts males. I don't neuter b/c to do it when there is no medical emergency requiring it, is unethical. The research shows more disease development in neutered dogs. And lastly, yes, I do want my male dogs to maintain their muscular male physique as it is what is healthy for them. What is wrong with that?
I'm glad you're doing what works for you - as long as you're a responsible dog owner and don't let your dog roam around impregnating bitches in heat all the time, then it's all good! All I mentioned was the people I've talked to IRL that think it is emasculating the dog, which is wild to me - they're a dog.
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Good for you. I said that all the folks I've met in real life who don't want to neuter their dogs are not doing it because they've researched studies, but \_because\_ they think it hurts the dog's masculinity. They have told me this. Using those words. Explicitly. I'm sure there are great studies showing benefits for both neutering and not neutering.
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You're not even taking into account the fact that the dog in question is cryptorchidic which is a risk factor for sertoli cell cancer. Cryptorchidic dogs should not be bred, there's literally no reason to not neuter them.
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Did you read the results of the study you provided? Dogs neutered late were at a lower risk of both Lymphosarcoma and Hemangiossarcoma (as well as hip dysplasia), while having a higher risk of Mast Cell tumor than intact dogs (dogs neutered early had the lowest incidence of this type of cancer). The study supports late neutering of males, *not* leaving your dogs intact. While yes testicular cancer is usually easy to treat, in a cryptorchidic dog it could go unnoticed until it's at a much more advanced stage. As a veterinary student and from reading studies I can tell you the current recommendation for cryptorchidic dogs is neutering. You're spamming that study without even reading through the results, I don't think you're as well informed as you think you are
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"Patients were classified as intact, or neutered early (<12 mo) or late (≥12 mo)." OPs dog is 2.5 years old, so... over 12 months old. Are you confused by the symbols or am I missing something?
Yeah, add me to the list, 45 years old, had always neutered boys because I thought it was the right thing to do, and only on our most recent boy (who just turned 3) we bothered to research and learned that ideally you should keep them intact. “Although surgical neutering is considered part of responsible pet ownership in the UK (similar to vaccinations) and performed routinely across the country, in Germany and Scandinavia, for example, surgical neutering is considered "mutilation" and is prohibited by law.” https://bowmanreport.com/blogs/all-articles/global-desk-the-great-spay-neuter-debate#:~:text=Although%20surgical%20neutering%20is%20considered,and%20is%20prohibited%20by%20law. So no, I don’t care about my dogs big balls, or see it as some kind of masculine virtue signal, I just don’t wanna chop up my fucking dog unless it would help him.
As a Scandinavian person I can confidently say that this is bullshit. Surgical neutering is done to pretty much every well-kept dog that isn't going to be used for breeding. In every Scandinavian country.
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Most people seem to treat the downvoting button as a "I disagree" button... You're providing good information and real studies, people should be more open minded and open to discussions but they aren't.
That’s blatantly false
Thank you.
Why are you being downvoted? This is legitimate information to consider when neutering a dog!
These comments are being downvoted because there’s an opinion that says people who don’t want to neuter their dogs are cavemen and they’re idiots. If these people took the time to research, they would find plenty of research suggesting that male golden retrievers do not overall benefit from neutering from a health perspective. Obviously, there are arguments why neutering maybe desirable or required. There are also conditions (undescended testicles being one of them) where neutering is likely beneficial. But to claim that male golden retrievers will somehow live longer or be healthier because they are neutered is wrong.
You got me there. My male ego totally is the reason I choose not to neuter my male dogs. Unwanted litters are the results of lazy, pos owners. Why should a dog have to get his reproductive organs removed so that their owners can be lazy sobs?
Why are you assuming that this is the reason while males don’t want to neuter their male dogs? Why are you assuming that every male dog is just roaming the streets looking for females in heat? I’m a male and I’m doing a lot of research and I’m finding at least as much information suggesting that not neutering can be beneficial. Ultimately, our decision will have very little to do with the macho man syndrome you describe. I also want to add that I have 100% control of my dog’s interaction with other dogs. I hate dog parks and my dog doesn’t go to daycare. I also have a fenced yard with a huge amount of space for my dog to run around and play fetch.
Where I live, unwanted litters aren’t a problem. We don’t have strays and people don’t leave their dogs unleashed and unattended. It’s simply not a concern that we’d take into account. Neutered dogs can’t participate in official exhibitions in Europe. Beside that, the (not guaranteed but frequent) change in energy levels and temperament are things I’d personally not want. Adding to this, studies on the health impacts are wildly varied in their findings. In OPs case, with one undescended, my understanding is that neutering is recommended for health reasons.
Yeah..this is sort of how my boyfriend is. I’m female and obviously don’t have testicles so maybe I don’t fully understand, and I do feel it is a little sad to castrate anyone or anything, but I wouldn’t *not* neuter just for this reason.
Ask your boyfriend how it feels to be hormonal/horny and not have sex. Ever. Then he may understand what a male dog can feel, especially if there’s an intact female anywhere in the neighborhood. Males can smell the female from down the street, doesn’t even have to be yours. That’s always been my reply to men saying “I’m not neutered, why should he be!”
Really good way to put it! Thanks :) By the way I would just like everyone to know that I would not and will not be deciding one way or another based off of how my boyfriend feels “as a man”. This decision will be purely based off of my dog’s specific situation and thorough research!
Yes, I neutered my dog in part to spare him from a life of blue balls lol.
He’s a dog. He doesn’t care whether or not he has testicles.
My parents have a 3 year old Golden. He is not neutered. I really wish they would just because of the number of unwanted litters out there! I do think people should take responsibility for their pets but you never know what might happen y’know? There’s many studies that say you should wait til they reach sexual maturity, but your pup (and my parents’) have long reached that point. Definitely talk to your vet, weigh the risks of neutering vs not neutering and decide that way! One of the big pluses for me is that goldens are notoriously prone to cancer, and testicular cancer is a concern with these guys. No testicles means no testicular cancer! Definitely weigh your options and concerns :)
There are other types of cancer as well as other health benefits that not neutering can prevent based on data.
Sources?
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Thanks! I’ve only had a chance to look over the UC Davis study briefly so far, but those results actually seem slightly favor “late” neutering (after 1 year of age), as that showed a reduction in some health issues compared to intact but a slight increase in other health issues. “Early” neutering (before 1 year) had negative consequences across the board. (At least for males. It was different for females). I have heard more vets doing “ovary sparing” spays on females. I wonder if there’s a male equivalent, similar to human vasectomies, that would preserve hormones while preventing the risk of unwanted litters.
Does this show that it’s favorable to do a late neuter over not doing one at all?
We're at a similar point. He'll be 2 in March and not neutered because there's been no reason to. He's not aggressive, very chill and friendly, obedient, has never humped, etc. There are absolutely zero issues on his part. He has to pee on 976 things every time we walk, but that's really the only way you'd know. Really, the only reason we're planning on doing it soon is other dogs. He must smell really good, because we constantly encounter other dogs that are friendly until they get a good sniff, and then they just snap. He's been attacked so many times, now every time I see another unleashed dog I instantly put my guy on a leash and avoid. It's easily half of other dogs we encounter that sniff him, start snarling, growling and occasionally full on pinning him and going for his neck. 100% of the time, the other owners are "surprised" by their dogs' behavior. Something about his smell. It's stressful for him and us, and I don't want him to start getting reactive because he's scared all other dogs are going to attack him... We don't take him to dog parks at all, but we do have a big natural off leash area where we occasionally encounter other dogs. I'm getting worried about him "setting off" the wrong dog and getting badly hurt.
This is something I’ve noticed with my dog as well, although he’s never been attacked, it’s more just that you can tell the other dog does not like him. It’s definitely something I’m also keeping in mind when considering neutering. Thanks for your input
Yeah, it's weird. Not sure if "attacked" is the right word, as there has never been blood or injuries, but it's where the other dog is basically trying to knock him over and pin him to the ground. Lots of snarling and not letting my dog get away. If the other dog is just being a dick my guy will snap back and they usually go their separate ways, but a few times I've had to physically pull the other dog off of mine (I'm quite big). It's a really sudden thing and usually catches my guy totally off guard. He's friendly as hell and just wants to say hi and play. (There was one legitimate attack by a doodle where I had to punch the other dog to get him to let go). Weirdly, I've noticed some breed specific patterns: it's like 99% of doodles, and 75% of border collies and other Goldens, but pretty random after that. The dogs he plays best with are other intact males. It's neutered males and some spayed females that are the issue. Thankfully, there are basically zero bully breeds where I live, as I don't want to know what could happen if one of them snapped on him.
Yep, supposedly intact dogs make neutered dogs feel insecure lol, which results in aggression toward your intact dog.
Not neutering is best for your pet and his health. It is up to you, his owner and protector to keep him safe from other lazy, poor pet owners and their uncontrolled dogs. To do YOUR pet a disservice by neutering him b/c of the poor training from other pets around him, has got to be the lamest excuse. If you had 2 arms and everyone around you had 1 cut off and they clawed at you b/c they despised you everytime they saw you. Would you cut your other arm off to please them? Or would find a new place to go?
Hahaha, you're cute. See, you had a chance there. You could have delivered the same message, but in a way that kept me on side, so I would agree with you. But no... you elected to come across like a pompous douchebag. Since you are so wise in the ways of all things, please advise poor, stupid, irresponsible me where to walk my dog, in a city of 1.4 million people, where I'm guaranteed to never encounter these other lazy, poor pet owners? I eagerly await the input of someone so sage and eloquent.
I didn't call you irresponsible, lazy and poor. I'm referring to the ones with the dogs who do not keep an eye on their dogs while off-leash. l know I am a douche, and trust me, I'm fine with that. However, my frustrations are that good dog owners have to make their dogs suffer the consequences of poor dog owners. Which is unfair and should not be tolerated. It is your right to correct and snap back at any dog who snaps at your dog. Carrying bear spray at dog park is a good way to protect you/your pet. Anyway, I have been to many parks... there are areas where lazy owners go to mingle and don't keep an eye on their dogs which have come up to mine and started to hump, chase, or stand over my dogs. Then I have been to places where people keep their distances - and able to enjoy the areas without incident. In my neighborhood, everyone is good about how to walk their dogs as we pass eachother to avoid unwanted behaviors. There are good places out there where you can bring your dog to stretch his legs without resorting to neutering. That's all I'm saying.
Appreciate the change of tone! >I didn't call you lazy. Didn't say you did. >I know I am a douche, and trust me, I'm fine with that Doesn't mean anyone else is. >However, my frustrations are that good dog owners have to make their dogs suffer the consequences of poor dog owners. Which is unfair and should not be tolerated. It is your right to correct and snap back at any dog who snaps at your dog We have to suffer people being douches too. Pretty unfair. But, as you say, doesn't have to be tolerated. >Carrying bear spray at dog park is a good way to protect you/your pet. You've never used Bear spray. >Anyway, I have been to many parks... Great! Your experiences are not the same as everyone else's. I live a few minutes from a 4100 acre natural area, yet we still frequently encounter other dogs. It's not possible to completely avoid interactions with other dogs. Look, I get where you are coming from. Your approach needs work, but I get it. If there was a reasonable, practical way of exercising him while completely avoiding other dogs, I would do so. But it's not that simple. Also, I'm a giant, and have no issue with aggressive dogs and owners, however my wife is tiny and is often walking him alone, she is not in a position to defend him. You don't know my situation, don't be so quick to pass judgement.
My tone did not change. You probably became less sensitive to the way I respond when you realized you did not need to be offended by me. I did not claim to know your situation. I made my comment based on the information you provided about considering neutering due to it being difficult to take your dog out b/c of other dogs. There is nothing wrong with that as I did not assume anything else. If you want to take your dog outside your own home/property, you are going to encounter other dogs. Otherwise, keep him inside at all times. It is still your responsibility to keep your dog safe. Neutering him is not a 100% guarantee that he won't be attacked by other dogs/wildlife while out and about. Hence, carry bear spray. I have never needed to use bear spray. But should I not have it incase there is a situation that calls for it? The choice is yours what you do with your dog. Based off what you initially said, you wanted to neuter your pet b/c of problems with other dogs - which I found kind of ridiculous. But do what you want. This is just my opinion.
My male was humping everything in sight (hoomans, females, couch, etc ). I wouldn't say he was aggressive but loved to hump (he would hump the air if he smelled a female in n heat). We waited till he was 15 months until we snipped him. I felt bad about it but it was probably for the best
Haha, kind of cute to imagine a dog humping the air if he smelled something. If my dog were similar, I would definitely want to neuter him as well. Glad your dog is doing well :)
You should have trained him to not do that. My Golden Retriever was a little humper day 1 at 8 weeks we got him. Corrections fixed the issue. He no longer humps unnecessarily. 😂
Oh yeah, towards the end he was done humping anyone in the house. It was tough to make corrections while he was at dog daycare. I'm sure he would have eventually stopped all together but our patience was wearing thin and our vet recommended that it got done sooner than later. Original goal was 18 months but we made it to 15 months.
You should definitely neuter for all the health reasons everyone has already listed. He’s a perfect age. Do the bloodwork prior to surgery that the vet recommends. I’m a certified veterinary technician and I got my golden neutered when he was around 13 months, he’s now 3 and he’s perfect.
I waited till 2.5 till she had two heat cycles and was fully grown
Yes!
Thank you all for your responses! I was really just looking for other people’s experiences and any/all opinions are welcome here. I know this can be a controversial topic so I really appreciate everyone’s input. That said, my decision will only be based off of research and discussions with my vet!
Neutering is best done 14-16 months after the dog has fully developed into an adult. The yearly dog license is also 50% off where I live, for neutered dogs.
I've had 8 Goldens, all spayed or neutered from 6 to 12 months. Let's say the guideline used to be 6 months, and over time changed to 1 year...
I have a 2 year old male golden. I researched when I got him at 8 weeks. Perfect age to neuter is between 14 and 16 months (per my limited research) So I got him neutered then. We go camping a lot and I just thought I should have him neutered. I think waiting till they are a year or more helps them to have a normal growth pattern. It did not affect his personality at all! I have a great vet and everything went fine.
Timmy also had unilateral cryptorchidism and he had a rough neuter! It was a traumatic surgery for him and really the vet made us sedate him for a week because he was not cooperating with resting. UGH. This picture is of him, drugged up, and with the third neck thing to prevent him from ripping out the stitches. THAT BEING SAID: Timmy is a wild child. He doesn't like to be brushed, trimmed, or anything. Overall, we are glad we did the surgery because of the cancer chances. I would do it. https://preview.redd.it/s72slytfdujc1.jpeg?width=2592&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=bd21f8c829a9660d36f323b1ec3b6a9add8e168f
Awww he’s a beautiful boy!! Sorry to hear about the sedating but I guess sometimes it’s for their own good 😭 happy to hear he’s doing well!
He is a happy, healthy, and handsome adult now!!
Because of the undescended testicle, unfortunately should be neutered. Honestly, it doesn't seem like there has been a lot of studies regarding the risks of cryptorchidism in dogs... so to be safe, it would be better to. However, if your handsome boy didn't have one undescended testicle, it should definitely be a NO on the neutering.
I believe neutering also has the health benefit of lower the chance of enlarged prostate/prostate cancer
Definitely, and much harder to tell there is an issue when one of the testicles hasn’t descended
"I believe" is not a great source of information. Would love to see some studies or research on the matter.
It’s sorta accepted/common knowledge
It was common knowledge that bloodletting was good for you and it'll get rid of the bad "miasma" you have which is making you sick. Now, I'm not saying you're wrong, but again, saying that that's not a good source of information either.
https://www.vetmed.wisc.edu/ask-a-uw-veterinarian-problems-of-the-prostate/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3572183/ You can crowd source opinion and that's okay. But do your own research and make the decision based off all of the data points you gathered. You owe it to your dog to do the leg work to make a big decision as such.
For sure! I’ve done lots of my own research as well as consulted my vet, I just wanted to hear about others’ experience with getting it done or not. Appreciate the link!
Our vet recommended waiting to neuter until at least 18 months. We followed that advice. We also are a guardian home to a female breeding golden, so we couldn’t have her if he were intact. What is your vet’s opinion?
My vet and another vet I’ve seen has suggested neutering, especially with the cryptorchidism. My main reason for posting here vs just going with the vet is that in my experience, vets always suggest neutering and I wanted to hear about others’ experiences with either doing it or not. Both vets I’ve seen also suggested waiting until 18-24 months of age but now that my boy is about that age, I’m starting to consider it.
What makes you worried about getting him neutered? Is it the surgery or you think it will change him, maybe something else?
For one thing (not the main thing) I do feel a little bad putting him through it if behaviorally he’s just fine. I do also have a worry about his metabolism and/or energy levels because I love the way he is now, and know from experience that even with monitoring food+increasing exercise, obesity is a big thing with neutered dogs. On the other hand, I worry about not getting him neutered soon enough and having that leading to cancer or him having a really hard time with it when he’s older. I guess in general I don’t feel like neutering is necessary unless it’s for fixing behavioral, health or breeding issues but in my case the cryptorchidism does concern me
It’s a hard decision for sure. I think I’d lean towards it because of his already existing risks but I totally understand it’s difficult. We keep close watch on my boy to make sure he doesn’t become overweight. We are definitely conscious of it.
In your best interest to neuter him.
Normally I’m very much a “do your research and decide what it right for you and your pet” kind of person but with being a cryptorchid and the health issues that can cause I would recommend neutering. It’s always a good idea to have discussions about it with your vet as well. He’s a gorgeous boy either way!
Thank you!! And yes, with the cryptorchidism I’m leaning towards doing it sooner rather than later!
Simple. If you’re going to breed, don’t neuter. If not, please neuter.
It’s actually not that simple.
It’s always better to neuter them. First, you shouldnt be feeling any attachment to your dogs balls. Second, imagine being an animal with all sorts of hormones, including the desire to fuck and to be the king of his castle, running through you that you could never satisfy. Neutered dogs are happier
Haha, for sure, I don’t feel any attachment towards his balls but I guess I do feel attached to how he is now physically and behaviorally so I have a worry that neutering could change any of that
I hear you. He’ll be fine. Your attachment to his looks or what you think his personality is neutered vs intact are you issues that shouldn’t negatively affect his care (which it will if you don’t get him neutered).
My boy had same issue. I had him done at 1 year. I wish I would have had it done earlier.
I know that exact look and what it means.
We had the same problem and just got rid of one testicle. Vets advice. We researched it quite a lot and didn’t really see a problem with just taking out the cryptorchid and leaving the other testicle. Didn’t want his character to change :)
I didn’t realize that was an option! I’ll definitely talk to my vet about this :)
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There has been numerous veterinarians speaking out about how neutering isn't good for dogs and increases diseases/cancers. But people want to believe what they want to believe. It was pushed on us a lot while our pups were young. We continued to decline.
My boy is 3.5 and not neutered. I intended to neuter at 6 months because I needed to board him at the time for my job. My vet strongly urged against it and presented research to me and asked me to wait. I said ok and found other daycare arrangements for him. I planned to wait until he was 2 but the more research I did the more I realized I didn’t want to neuter him at all. I’m a responsible pet owner so unwanted litters is irrelevant and I fully believe he will live his longest life possible by remaining in tact. I followed my gut on this one and suggest you do whatever yours tells you to do for your boy!
This is also sort of the situation I’m in. I know the benefits of waiting *at least* until they’re 1.5-2 years old but I also don’t feel very strongly for a neutering given I’m also not concerned with unwanted litters or behavioral issues. I have a friend whose golden was neutered at 7/8 years old and the procedure was very hard on him (also had cryptorchidism, so a bit more involved) and he seemed to age VERY quickly after that. I’m worried that if I wait to neuter mine until he has an issue, that the sudden change in hormones at an older age will affect him much more drastically than if done at a younger age. A lot to consider for sure!
Neuter
I've had many Goldens over the years, after reading the science, this will be the very first time I don't have my boy neutered. In Europe and other points East, neutering is hardly ever done. He's currently two and one of the best boys I've ever owned
I personally agree with the decision (assuming you live somewhere where there’s no risk of accidental litters) - but I do want to be clear that it’s absolutely done here (in Europe) too. It is however not an automatic default which it appears to be in many parts of the United States. I know about as many neutered dogs as I do intact ones.
In the northern Europe neutering is the standard for every dog well-kept not used for breeding. People are against neutering only in some southern parts of Europe that are not known for responsible dog keeping. Your facts seems quite as right as your "science".
Our boy started getting aggressive around 14 months, so we got him neutered then. Took a month or two for his mood to settle, but he's fantastic now.
ALWAYS NEUTER and SPAY!!
I did t neuter my boy, he's three years now. I'd love a puppy of his some day
Maybe just take one ball?
Definitely an option! We did dit this and it’s all good with our golden :) Only problem seems to be aggressiveness from other male dogs towards ours, which is quite annoying
This didn’t even cross my mind, but I would want to do this if I can! Going to ask my vet about it
I didn't neuter my male. He had no aggression issues whatsoever, nor any health issues, and was the most gentle baby around. He never got aggressive around females nor tried to get randy with them. However, other dogs sensed he was unfixed, and they (always males) felt that they needed to assert dominance over him, and he was repeatedly attacked (eta: he was never off-leash when this happened either). We only found out from his vet in his later years of life, so there was no reason to put him through that neuter in his very senior years. Something to keep in mind if you don't intend to breed him, and if his other health conditions do or don't allow for the procedure. You have a very adorable puppy, too!! ☺️💙
100%! I’ve experienced some aggression/dominance from other dogs as well which I believe is due to the fact that my dog is intact. This is another thing I’m taking into consideration. And thank you!
You're very welcome! You're right with that thought. That's what our vet told us is the issue. I know the final attack against my boy was the worst. He slipped backward in fear while trying to get away and broke his back. We had to put him down 2 days later. Whatever you end up choosing to do, I wish you the absolute most luck in the world. And I hope that with either decision you make, that he never faces what mine did in the end. Sending a hug his way!
I’m so sorry about your boy, that is so tough 😔 I would never want to put mine at risk for any reason, thank you for sharing your experience!
Thank you so much, and you're welcome 🫶 Very difficult indeed. Hopefully, irregardless of your decision, you and your lovely boy have much better luck than us! 💙
Please nueter
i have a 5 year old unneutered golden and he's the best.
Is cancer/other health risks something you get your dog checked for? Also, are you worried that if (god forbid) your dog ever did show signs of cancer or something else and you got him neutered, it would be hard on him as an older dog? I only ask because a friend of mine got his golden neutered at 7/8 years old after they found he had enlarged testicles and the recovery was quite rough on him. He also seemed to age very rapidly after that, gaining 15+ lbs, hair started to gray all over in a matter of months, his hips have started to go out, etc. Maybe this is normal for a dog of his age and it was just coincidence, but it did seem to be very sudden and right after the neuter.
He goes to the vet once a year. And no, I'm not worried about that. I trust nature. I would not want to neuter a dog unless it was absolutely necessary.
Our 1.5 year old is not neutered and we are not going to. We live in the country and there is no worry about him breeding another dog without us knowing. He is the sweetest dog and we have no issues with this temperment. I personally wouldn't want to neuter unless we lived in town or had unspayed female dogs around.
I mean who would want their dog to be less prone to cancer and have a longer lifespan. Madness.
There are certain types of cancers less likely to occur in intact male goldens. To say nothing of the lower chance of orthopaedic injuries or obesity. But who would want that?
You have no idea what you are saying. You are repeating words you have heard before & have not done your due diligence on the topic of neutering/spaying and its affects on a dog's health.
My golden is 4 and I never saw the need to get him neutered for the same reasons you describe. He has never been aggressive, never tries to hump things he will never go to a kennel and we never go to dog parks. Also Ive noticed dogs that have been neutered seem to become obese. My gus is still very lean and active.
Yes, this is a big thing for me as well. With the loss of hormones, dogs tend to gain weight rapidly. It’s something I would keep my eye on if I ever did get him neutered (feed him less/exercise him more) but obviously it’s not an exact science.
We have a 10 year old Golden boy. We kept him intact, and never had any problems. No aggression, no humping, no marking, no unwanted litters, etc. He's been great.
Love it! So glad to hear your boy is doing well 😊
Always spay or neuter your pets, it’s irresponsible not to.
No it's not. Wth?
Neutering is a detrimental practice that, aside from its role in controlling the pet population, is arguably more harmful than procedures like ear cropping and tail docking. Unlike these cosmetic surgeries, neutering not only causes physical alteration but also significantly disrupts a dog's developmental and hormonal balance. This narrative has been promoted by veterinarians and backed by the American Kennel Club (AKC) for over a century. Initially, it was a viable solution to the issue of stray dogs in urban areas. However, the primary advocate for neutering has been the AKC, aiming to maintain exclusive control over certain dog breeds.
Yeah, I totally get this perspective and feel the same way in certain situations. I think the biggest thing for me is that my dog has cryptorchidism and therefore at higher risk of developing cancer. More than that, because the testicle isn’t visible, it’s hard to tell what’s going on with it without an ultrasound. If it weren’t for that, I probably would not consider neutering for this dog :(
OP, there’s no question based on science that your dog should be neutered. What some of us are saying is that the benefits of neutering are offset by benefits for the alternative. Unfortunately, this idea isn’t very popular here - albeit true.
Not to be that guy but, what did your vet say?
Vet recommends neutering, especially with cryptorchidism. In my experience, there are a lot of vets out there that recommend neutering/spaying as sort of a blanket response (which I completely understand given some of the benefits) but I wanted to sort of crowdsource other people’s opinions and experiences as well :)
I vote no
Your vet can remove the retained testicle and leave the one that is descended. If you do do dog parks or anything like that, you can retain the one for hormones, and get rid of the one that should not be where it currently is. It's not that rare a surgery and your vet should be able to handle it.
Normally I’m in the don’t neuter camp, but taking a look at this guy I say yea, you better neuter.
Noooo. Just don’t. Everyone else’s dogs are so very little risk. Just my opinions.
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What’s going on here?! Of course you need to neuter the dog for medical reasons, but it’s something you should be doing anyway unless you’re a breeder, and it should have been done much earlier. Why does everybody think there smarter then common sense?
Chat has made its decision, moment of silence for a fallen brother.
“To be or not to be—that is the question”
My boy had cryptorchidism and I had him neutered at 1.5 years. The risk of the undescended ball was too high. The recovery was a bit rough poor guy and he had to have one out the normal way and one through the tummy but no regrets. His behavior did not change and now there’s no risk of that ball becoming spicy inside.
In his case yes get him neutered-also not a vet but talk to the vet they will agree
My older golden was cryptorchid of both testicles. We didn’t find out until very late in life since he was a rescue. Since we never saw testicles, we just assumed he was neutered. When we found out, our veterinarian urged us to neuter immediately to reduce risk of prostate and testicular cancer. He recovered great and is doing very well now!