Neuter surgery does not change a dog's inherent personality. Neutering isn't a magic solution for behavior problems, and undesirable behaviors do not disappear overnight or without the help of a solid training regimen. Neutering a dog does, however, alter the chemicals that drive some undesirable behaviors, making it easier to work with the dog to deter problematic issues.
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Marking
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The amount of testosterone in a dog's body is reduced after neuter surgery. The effects of this may be seen immediately, but visible reactions can take up to three weeks to occur, according to the "Clinical Textbook for Veterinary Technicians." As a result of the decreased testosterone in the dog's body, he is less inclined to mark his territory with urine. This behavior, called spraying or marking, is evidenced by the need some dogs display to release a small amount of urine on everything in sight. Neutering deters this behavior, and may stop it completely. Dogs that do not stop marking after castration may need additional training, which is made significantly easier by the reduced chemical urges.
Aggression to Other Dogs
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Another benefit of the reduced testosterone caused by neuter surgery is a reduced aggression toward other male dogs. This is particularly true when the dog is in a mixed gender group. When female dogs are around, particularly females in estrus, or heat, male dogs are driven to aggression from the urge to mate. Neutered male dogs still exhibit this behavior somewhat, but the severity and frequency of the aggression is often greatly reduced, according to the "Clinical Veterinary Advisor."
Running Away
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If your pooch makes a habit of running away, neuter surgery may deter this behavior. Some dogs run off in an effort to seek out a female in heat. Without the ability to procreate and the hormones that drive those urges, a male dog is less likely to run away from home to chase a female.
Aggression Toward Smaller Animals
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Some dogs don't do well around smaller dogs, cats or other pets. These dogs have a naturally high prey instinct, causing them to view the smaller animals as a potential meal. Neutered dogs have a significantly lower prey drive than their intact counterparts, making it easier to teach the dog good behavior around smaller animals, according to "Shelter Medicine for Veterinarians and Staff."
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