A new study was published in February which may interest some of you. It involves Vizslas, not Labradors, but adds to the body of evidence that suggests we need to consider the possible adverse effects, as well as benefits of, the routine neutering of dogs. The study shows that there is a correlation between neutering and the incidence of both cancer and behavioural disorders, in Vizslas. The earlier the dogs were neutered, the higher the incidence of cancer. I hasten to add, correlation is not the same as causation. And importantly neutering did not decrease longevity. The neutered dogs lived as long as the intact dogs. They just died from different causes. There could be many factors at work here and these were Vizslas, not Labs. This is not a reason to feel bad because you have neutered your dog! But it is something to consider if you are undecided as to whether to neuter your dog in the future. If you enjoy ploughing through scientific papers, you can read the whole thing here
Re: New evidence linking neutering and cancer That's one to save for when I have an Insomniac Moment . But seriously, it's good that there are some studies being done, even if they aren't with our breed. The more evidence which is gathered and supports one view or another, the better for everyone who has to make the decision WHEN or IF to neuter their dog.
Re: New evidence linking neutering and cancer First time I have seriously seen "additional studies are needed....on methods to render dogs infertile that do not involve gonadectomy" mentioned. I think this is heartening.
Re: New evidence linking neutering and cancer This is new to me .... thankyou for bringing it to my attention
Re: New evidence linking neutering and cancer Very interesting. Just because it's been carried out on vizslas does that mean its only really relevant for vizslas or all dogs because dogs are dogs ?
