Neutering of a male Bernese Mountain Dog is the surgical removal of their testes. It is an important procedure that presents many benefits to a Bernese Mountain Dog.
So, when should a male Bernese Mountain Dog be neutered? A male Bernese Mountain Dog should be neutered when they are at least 12 to 18 months old, after reaching puberty. Neutering at this age allows time for the development of hormones that are essential for muscle development as they grow into adults.
Neutering earlier than 12 months of age interferes with this important developmental stage which can result in an inability to gain the normal muscle mass throughout their life.
A neutered Bernese Mountain Dog also presents less aggressive behavior, territorial marking as well as production of unwanted puppy litters when they find a female partner.
In this post, you will learn all about the neutering of male Bernese Mountain Dogs, the pros and cons, the effect of the procedure on their growth, behavior, and recovery time.
Does neutering a Bernese Mountain Dog stunt growth?
Neutering a Bernese Mountain Dog does not stunt their growth, however, it might affect their joints when they are neutered at an early age before the age of 1 year.
Studies have shown that large breed dogs such as the Bernese Mountain Dog that are neutered before reaching one year of age may experience delayed closing of the growth plate which causes them to grow taller than normal and develop joint disorders because of their heavyweight.
The joint disorders they develop include elbow dysplasia, hip dysplasia, and cranial cruciate ligament tears in the knees leading to hind-limb lameness.
Traditional Bernese Mountain Dog neutering ages have been between 6 and 9 months but because of scientific research evidence, neutering policies have been reviewed.
It is also always important to talk to your vet regarding neutering a Bernese Mountain Dog and follow their guidance on it.
Recommended Reading: How often do Bernese Mountain Dogs go in heat?
Will neutering my Bernese Mountain Dog calm him down?
Neutering your Bernese Mountain Dog will help to calm him down because, through neutering, the level of testosterone male hormone in their body is reduced which results in a change of behavioral traits such as territorial and aggressive behavior.
This means a Bernese Mountain Dog will be calmer and less aggressive in their behavior and towards other dogs as well as have reduced territorial urine marking in their environment which is a common behavior problem.
Related:
Can you neuter a Bernese Mountain Dog at 6 months?
No, you cannot neuter a Bernese Mountain Dog at 6 months old because of the health risk that results when they are neutered early, which includes lack of proper muscular development, delayed growth plate closure leading to continual growth than usual which leads to joint disorders.
Neutering used to be at the age of 6 to 9 months, however, research has shown that this is detrimental especially for large breed dogs and their ideal neutering age is when they are at least one year old to avoid the health risks.
How long is the Bernese Mountain Dog neuter recovery time?
The Bernese Mountain Dog’s neuter recovery time takes 14 days for complete healing of the surgical incision.
During this recovery time, aftercare at home involves feeding them well, provision of prescribed pain medication, and monitoring of the incision area for any signs of concerning symptoms such as bleeding, swelling, or appearance of discharge.
After 14 days, a Bernese Mountain Dog can engage in normal activities such as bathing, swimming, and play.
What are the pros and cons of neutering a Bernese Mountain Dog?
The pros and cons of neutering a Bernese Mountain Dog include:
Pros:
- Prevention of accidental breeding and addition of unwanted puppy litters
- Neutering prevents testicular cancer which promotes prostate health
- Reduced territory urine marking which is a behavior problem
- Decreased aggressive disposition in behavior and towards other dogs or animals
Cons
- The price for neutering can be high depending on the pet clinic or veterinarian performing the procedure
- The recovery time takes 14 days with post-operative care to ensure the skin incision heals properly
Takeaway
Neutering of a male Bernese Mountain Dog is important and has several benefits.
As a large breed dog, it is important to neuter a Bernese Mountain Dog at the right age to allow for proper development and to avoid health risks that can occur due to early neutering.
For more information on the Bernese Mountain Dog, breed information, health, behavior and care, feel free to check out our Bernese Mountain Dog owners guide for owners.