Signs That a Dog Needs to Be Neutered

Most dogs are spayed or neutered. This is done to limit some of the less desirable traits that dogs exhibit when they are sexually active and it also prevents animal shelters from being flooded with unwanted puppies. Consider a dog's age and pay close attention to signs and displays of sexual behavior in determining when a dog needs to be neutered.

  1. Humping

    • One sign of sexual maturity in dogs is commonly known as ̶0;humping.̶1; The dog repeatedly tries to mount different objects, animals and people and will rapidly brush his body up and down the item or person. This behavior is not always sexual according to Andover Animal Hospital.com, but it can also be a sign of sexual maturity in male dogs.

    Urine Spotting

    • A male dog who constantly pees in small amounts around the house or yard is displaying the adult dog behavior of marking his territory. This behavior is only demonstrated by adult dogs and is a sign of sexual maturity. In marking his territory a dog is warning other males to stay away, as well as announcing to females that a male is nearby.

    Wandering

    • Sexually mature dogs tend to wander and roam away from home. If your dog suddenly tries to bolt from the house or yard at every opportunity, or he constantly finds his way out of the yard through digging or jumping the fence, then it is likely that he is trying to roam. Sexually mature male dogs roam to find a female with which to mate. Wandering tendencies can occur as early as 4 months of age, but are more common around 6 months.

    Dominance Aggression

    • Another sign of sexual maturity in dogs is aggression. Male dogs try to dominate other pets in the house and even children by mounting them, growling or snarling, barking aggressively or not allowing the animal or person to come near them. Some dogs may even get into fights with other male dogs or small animals.

    Age

    • Most vets recommend neutering dogs between 4 and 7 months of age. Neutering this early prevents many of the adult signs of sexual maturity that may not go away if the dog is neutered after reaching full sexual maturity. If your dog is older than 7 months and has yet to show signs of sexual maturity, consult a vet to schedule the procedure.