How does neutering affect behaviour?
The behaviours that will be affected by castration are those that are under the influence of male hormones (see below). A dogs temperament, training, personality and ability to do “work” are a result of genetic factors as well as its upbringing, not just its male hormones. Castration does not necessarily calm an excitable dog, and unless a castrated male dog is overfed or under-exercised, there is no reason for it to become fat and lazy. What is castration? Castration or neutering of male dogs is surgical removal of the testicles (orchidectomy). The procedure involves a general anaesthetic. An incision is made just in front of the scrotal sac and both testicles removed, leaving the sac intact. Vasectomies are not usually performed since it is both sterilisation and removal of the male hormones that provide the behavioural and medical benefits of castration. Which of my dogs behaviour problems can be expected to improve following castration? As mentioned, only those behaviours that are
