German Wirehaired Pointer Club of America

[katababa]

Hi,
I was wondering if you could provide information about the pros and cons of neutering. My family is originally from europe, and it is almost unheard of to neuter a pure bred dog. I'm feeling the pressure from people to neuter him, however there are three of us that live in the neighborhood that are holding out. I spoke with the breeder and she said that in the end it's my decision. As fellow gwp owners, I was wondering if i could get breed specific advice since your opinions are the ones I would respect the most. Thanks!

[cmmilach]

Hi,

There is no reason to keep an intact male as a pet - neutering him will save you both alot of problems.

I have an 11 yr old male that was intact for 8 yrs because we were showing him in confirmation as a special. Once he was retired, I had him neutered and he alot easier to be around.

Cathy

[Jon]

There are two principle reasons that it is sometimes better to neuter a male dog.

1) The dog can't reproduce as an accident or otherwise.
2) Lower incidence of prostatitis and cancer of the reproductive system.

Neutering does not necessarily curb aggression, especially if the dog has already exhibited aggressive behavior. The contention that male dogs become more androgenous is a myth-it varies by the dog (some will mark their territory just as aggressively after neutering). The primary reason that vets and the canine community are pushing neutering today is to prevent accidental breedings. For responsible owners, this is not a reason. I have owned dogs for 36 years and have never had an accidental breeding or even come close. If you allow your dog to roam or don't have a secure kennel/premises, I would recommend you neuter him.

[Browndog]

Hi,
I have a 3 yr old male and a 10 month female GWP. I had the female neutered for obvious reasons. The male (Barney) was intact. Three months ago Barney for the first time began humping every dog he was around (male or female) and I saw this as a dominating issue, not a sexual issue. I had Barney desexed two months ago and he no longer humps other dogs, etc. His personality, etc hasn't changed a bit. He never was aggressive but he has stopped the humping. He never humped my bitch (Becky) funny enough, she is definetly the 'alpha'. If it wasn't for the humping other dogs, I wouldn't have had him desexed. Unwanted puppies to me is more a sign of poor dog ownership.

Cheers,

Adrian.

[Browndog]

As a follow up to my last post, since Barney has been desexed his behaviour re: humping has long ceased, around all other dogs. He is still a joy to be around and if anything has lost none of his drive. He is just the same and just as enjoyable as a friend to have around.