Should I have my healthy 5yo dog neutered?

[NeverEndingLaundry]

I have a nearly 5 y/o, unneutered male Parson Russell terrier who used to be a stud dog. We have now moved away from his breeder who arranged the matings and I have no interest in selling his 'services' myself.

He is an exceptionally sweet-natured, obedient little fellow and there are no behavioural downsides to warrant castrating him, but when I took him to a new vet for injections I was told it would be a good idea to have him done soon to save him from health problems (tumours etc?) later.

This seems to make sense and I would obviously like him to be a healthy old dog. I'm thinking of ringing the vet to make an appointment but thought I'd canvass opinion here first as I really don't know much about it.

[toboldlygo]

The health benefits in males are negligible save for removal of risk of testicular cancer and some associated prostate cancers - the benefits are mostly behavioural. The reverse is true for bitches. I would probably choose to leave him entire.

[NeverEndingLaundry]

That's interesting. Thanks.

[cashewfrenzy]

For the majority of male dogs the increased risk of some cancers is not outweighed by the minimal health benefits. The current evidence does not support routine neutering of males in the absence of health problems arising from .testosterone or the testes. That's something your vet should be ble to discuss with you.

[NeverEndingLaundry]

Thank you. I really don't want to put him through the op if the risk of him getting ill is only marginally affected. Although he was a keen stud dog (!), he's never disappeared looking for bitches on heat or been aggressive or anything like that. I'll ring the vet later on to talk about it.

I do want to keep him healthy for as many years as I can as he's my constant companion and best friend! Never thought I would be this soppy about an animal.

[ender]

Maybe best to speak to a different vet or do your own research. If your current one advised castration to prevent future health problems then his knowledge needs updating.