Is it safe to neuter a older dog

[Theodoreb]

I didn’t neuter my Labrador at request of breeder as she felt he was best in litter and may have chosen to stud him which I agreed to.

He has no problems other than he is like Houdini at escaping and cries when there is a bitch in season, anyway I was speaking to breeder and I mentioned as he is now way to old to breed, he is 10 and in perfect health most people think from behavior he is only about 5 as he is still very bouncy. But despite best measures with 3 dc he rarely has managed to escape I want him neutered plus I’m hoping he’ll be in less discomfort if there is a bitch in season.

But I’m worried about the procedure and that it may be dangerous at his age would appreciate some advice on whether it’s worth doing for my boy.

[GetTheSprinkles]

Never too old if hes in good health and there are potential health benefits such as a reduced risk of prostate issues (such as BPH) and eliminated risk of testicular cancer

[FlashingFedora]

Not at all, it's a fairly quick procedure. Lots of older animals need dental work for example which is a much longer anaesthetic. Most vets will recommend pre op bloods in an older animal to check kidney/liver function which makes the anaesthetic safer as these organs have to metabolise and excrete the drugs used.

[Theodoreb]

Aww thank you so much I will speak to my vet and see if we can get my boy booked in as really think it’s best for him.

[DogInATent]

Safest to let the vet do it for you, rather than attempt something yourself on the kitchen table with the bread knife.

Shelters dogs of all ages neutered/spayed before re-homing. I don't see it being a problem if he's generally in good health.

[AvocadosBeforeMortgages]

Would it make sense to combine it with a dental at the same time? If you're putting the dog under a GA (and the vet wouldn't do a GA for a non-essential procedure) then you may as well make the most of it if the dog would need one in 6 months anyway.

[Theodoreb]

@AvocadosBeforeMortgages that’s a good idea I’ll ask the vet to check him over and see if there is anything he needs done as he really does seem in perfect health