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My dog just got neutered. What normal behaviors should I expect?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | neutered | 16.2 lbs

My dog just got neutered and I dont know if hes ok or not. Hes acting really weird. What is usual behavior post neuter?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Karly Macon, DVM, MS, CVA Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Veterinarian

Published on October 5th, 2017

This really depends on what he is doing, and how long ago he was neutered. If the surgery was today, then he will likely be feeling strange and not himself for the whole evening. Depending on what kind of anesthetic drugs and pain medications he was given, he could be really whiny, needy, or just laying around. If he is really agitated, or trying to lick constantly, or seems really painful, then he may not have been given adequate pain medication and I would call your after-hours vet right away for further help. He may not be interested in food or water, and this can be normal, just for tonight. Tomorrow he should be eating and acting normally. If he is laying around and won't get up even when you stimulate him, this may be an emergency and I would call a vet right away, as this is certainly not normal. With my neuters, I always send them home the same day, fully awake, and with extra pain medication to go home with. Hope that helps!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on June 11th, 2019
Sounds like he is a lot of discomfort/pain; not unusual after surgery. Could also be some dysphoria from the drugs.

Did they not send him home with some pain medications? If not, you need to call the vet and get some medications for him. If he is on medication, you still to call them as the dose may need to be adjusted up or down. I cannot recommend that you can give him over the counter medications as I do not know what drugs he has already had. The trailing of the urine can be a side effect of anesthesia/medications. I would not be overly concerned about that at this stage.

All you can do is keep him calm and quiet and don't fuss too much over him or you will be reinforcing this behavior. Please call the vet in the morning.

Hope this helps. If you have more questions you can always opt for a private consultation where we can chat back and forth. That way you can ask as many questions as you'd like. Best wishes.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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