No one decision is right for everyone. There are a lot of factors to consider when you spay or neuter your dog. Are there are other dogs in the home? Is there a possibility of an accidental litter? Will the dog continue getting along with it's unaltered canine housemate(s)? These answers are different for every family.
I recommend, when feasible, waiting till at least 18-24 months to spay or neuter a dog - ideally waiting till 3-4 years of age. Before 18-24 months, the dog is getting the hormones it needs to mature to a healthy, stable adult. There is a lot of research to support this online, and I encourage everyone to do their research.
Many vets encourage early altering as a population management technique, but neglect to consider the long-term health of the animal. I remember the old adage that neutering or spaying early will improve a dogs temperament and prevent unwanted behaviors like marking or humping. I've never personally experienced this to be true.
There may be circumstances that require you to spay or neuter earlier. We encourage you to discuss with us if you have a dLucks dog. We're here to help and support our owners in this decision timing.
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