Re: hormones

In Reply to: hormones
Posted by:  ping
Posted on:  June 16, 2001 at 20:22:48

: I read that it takes 6 mths after spaying/neutering for the hormones to leave the dog's system, does it mean that after this time frame, the dog will be more homely and toned down somewhat? presently, I find my puppy as active as before spaying.

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Hi there,

I'm not really well versed on this topic, BUT a dog doesn't loose all it's hormones due to being spayed/neutered. That being said, neutering didn't seem to chill Gritty out, but Looise seems to be more focussed and less crabby. Neutering Rutger didn't seem to change him, except he's the only male dog I have who doesn't lift his leg to pee on things... ever.

I'd say that neutering/spaying is a pretty individual thing. In the long run, it's the best possible thing you can do for your dog, and ultimately you will get to miss when the hormones are RAGING and all the problems that accompany that. Having a girl in heat here is my least favorite thing about dog ownership. Not only is the girl a nutcase, but the boys go nuts, too.

I hope this answers your question. I wish I could offer scientific data about how long it takes for hormones to settle after spay/neuter. Looks like I need to read more books!