Neutering a Great Dane, like any other dog breed, presents both advantages and disadvantages.
Neutering of a male Great Dane is a surgical procedure performed to sterilize them by removing its reproductive organs.
In males, the procedure is called castration, which involves removing the testicles. In females, it is referred to as spaying, and it involves removing the ovaries and usually the uterus.
The procedure is commonly done to prevent them from reproducing and, in turn, control the pet population. Beyond population control, neutering has additional pros and cons.
We delve more into the neutering of male Great Danes, the pros and cons, the effect of the procedure on their growth, behavior, and recovery time.
Table of Contents
When should a male Great Dane be neutered?
A male Great Dane should be neutered when they are at least 12 months old or 1 year 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 Great Dane also presents less aggressive behavior, territorial marking as well as production of unwanted puppy litter when they find a female partner.
Does neutering a Great Dane stunt growth?
Neutering a Great Dane 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 Great Dane 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 Great Dane 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 Great Dane and follow their guidance on it.
Recommended Reading: How often do Great Danes go in heat?
Will neutering my Great Dane calm him down?
Neutering your Great Dane 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 Great Dane 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.
Can you neuter a Great Dane at 6 months?
No, you cannot neuter a Great Dane 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 Great Dane neuter recovery time?
The Great Dane’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 Great Dane can engage in normal activities such as bathing, swimming, and play.
Recommended Reading: Do Great Danes have docked tails?
What are the pros and cons of neutering a Great Dane?
What are the pros and cons of neutering a Great Dane?
The pros and cons of neutering a Great Dane 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.
- When neutered early it leads to delayed growth plate closure leading to continual growth than usual which leads to joint disorders.
- Neutering affects the hormonal balance in the body, leading to a decrease in the hormones testosterone and estrogen. This hormonal shift results in a slower metabolic rate, making it easier for the neutered Great Dane to gain weight if dietary and exercise habits are not adjusted accordingly. Weight gain can pose health risks such as joint issues and obesity-related conditions.
- Changes in hormonal levels may also influence the texture of a Great Dane’s coat. Neutered dogs might experience alterations in the thickness, length, or even the color of their fur.
These changes are not universal and can vary among individual dogs.
Great Dane neuter cost
On average, the cost of neutering a Great Dane in the United States can range from $200 to $500 or more. The cost varies based on factors such as location, the veterinarian’s fees, and additional services included in the procedure.
This estimate often covers the surgical procedure, anesthesia, pain medications, and a postoperative checkup.
It’s important to check with your local veterinary clinic or animal hospital to get specific pricing information for your area and to inquire about any additional costs that may be associated with the procedure.
Some clinics offer package deals that include postoperative care or other services, so discuss all aspects of the procedure and associated costs with the veterinarian beforehand.
Takeaway
Neutering of a male Great Dane is important and has several benefits.
As a large breed dog, it is important to neuter a Great Dane at the right age to allow for proper development and to avoid health risks that can occur due to early neutering.
The question is when to neuter a Great Dane? The ideal Great Dane neutering age is an important consideration for Great Dane owners.
Consult with your veterinarian to determine the most appropriate timing for neutering based on your dog’s individual health.
Now you know when a male Great Dane should be neutered as well as the pros and cons of the procedure, the effect on their growth, behavior, and the recovery time.