dog neuter: recommended age by breed and general guidelines
dog neuter: recommended age by breed and general guidelines
The age of castration is no longer a universal rule, but a tailored medical decision. Recent protocols (UC Davis 2024) demonstrate that intervening too early can harm joint development, particularly in large breeds. At MVET, we analyze your dog’s breed, bone maturity, and lifestyle to determine the precise moment when the health benefits are maximized
What is the optimal age for castration based on breed?
The modern approach is no longer based on a fixed age, but on the physiological maturity of the skeleton. Sex hormones are essential for signaling the closure of bone "growth plates."
Summary Table: Dog Castration Age by Size
This recommendation is based on the University of California (UC Davis) study analyzing health risks related to the age of castration for 40 dog breeds. View the full study here
Why does bone growth dictate the age of castration?
In large breed dogs, long bones continue to grow until 18 or even 24 months of age. Sex hormones serve as a biological 'signal' to stop this growth at the right time
- Risk of early intervention: If hormones are removed too early, bones grow longer than expected but are less dense.
- Joint consequences: This creates misalignment in the hips and knees.
- Associated pathologies: This imbalance is one of the major causes of hip dysplasia and cruciate ligament rupture in adult dogs.
The Modern Alternative: Chemical Castration (Implant)
For owners who hesitate before a permanent surgery or for dogs with anesthetic risks, we offer a reversible solution: the Suprelorin implant.
At MVET, we use this method after an individual consultation to determine if this option is best suited to the health and lifestyle of your companion.
- How it Works: A small implant is placed under the skin (much like a microchip) without surgery or general anesthesia.
- Action: It releases a hormone that suspends fertility and reduces testosterone-related behaviors for a duration of 6 to 12 months.
- Benefits: This method is 100% reversible. It allows you to "test" the effects of castration on your dog's character before committing to a permanent procedure.
At MVET, we use this method after an individual consultation to determine if this option is best suited to the health and lifestyle of your companion.
Frequently Asked Questions
The ideal age is determined on a case-by-case basis. For small breeds, the procedure is often performed around 6–9 months. For large breeds (>25kg), we recommend waiting until 12 to 24 months to protect joint and hormonal health.
In Switzerland, castration is not required by federal law. However, it is strongly recommended to prevent roaming (escapes), certain types of cancer, and prostate disorders. Please note that your veterinarian must update your dog's status on the Amicus database following the procedure.
There is no strict age limit. For senior dogs (7+ years), we systematically perform a complete pre-anesthetic check-up (blood test and cardiac exam) to ensure maximum safety under anesthesia.
Castration reduces hormone-related behaviors (urine marking, aggression toward other males, roaming), but it does not change your companion's fundamental personality.
Dog Neutering in Geneva
We offer a preoperative consultation at our veterinary clinics in Plainpalais, Pâquis and Eaux-Vives, where the veterinarian assesses your dog’s overall health, explains the procedure, and determines the optimal age to neuter your dog.
The surgery is performed under general anesthesia, and after the operation, you will receive all the necessary instructions for care and recovery.
To schedule a consultation or procedure, contact us at 022 310 80 40 or book online directly through our website.
The surgery is performed under general anesthesia, and after the operation, you will receive all the necessary instructions for care and recovery.
To schedule a consultation or procedure, contact us at 022 310 80 40 or book online directly through our website.
