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When should I neuter my puppy for healthy bone and joint growth?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Australian Shepherd | Male | 5 months and 5 days old

I have heard of alot of different opinions, when is it best to neuter my puppy? Some say it is best to wait so the hormones helpthemgrow,isthistrue?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on November 22nd, 2016

I normally recommend neutering medium to large breed dogs like Australian Shepherds at the age of 10-12 months. It's true that testosterone is important for proper development of the bones and joints, so neutering at an earlier age can sometimes increase the risk of orthopedic problems later in life.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Dayna, DVM, CVA
Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist
Published on January 18th, 2018
Thank you for posting this question. The current recommendation is to wait until these large and giant breed dogs are skeletally mature prior to neutering. This occurs somewhere between 12-18 months depending on the size /breed of dog. This is thought to help limit the amount of arthritic change as they age. Thank you for using Pet Coach.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on December 11th, 2018
This is one of those controversies in veterinary medicine right now. You ask 10 vets you are likely to get 7-8 different answers (opinions).

My personal opinion is to wait until he is at least 18 months old to have him neutered. There have been some studies done that show that early neutering in large breed dogs may cause laxity in tendons/ligaments which may increase the chances of cruciate ligament tears in the knees later in life. My only caveat to that 18 month rule is if the dog is having behaviorial issues. In those cases I would neuter sooner.

Hope this helps. Best wishes.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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