C.A. Kolkmeyer and colleagues (2024) explored how neutering influences the behaviour and personality of mixed-breed male dogs across weight classes. Using an online questionnaire, the team compared 115 neutered and 115 intact dogs, categorised into small, medium, large, and giant breeds.
The results showed that neutered dogs were significantly more stressed than intact ones, particularly in situations such as separation anxiety and car rides. Stress levels varied by body size, with neutered small, medium, and large dogs reporting higher stress compared to giant dogs. Neutered males also exhibited greater aggression, both in general and specifically while on walks.
Personality traits were also affected. Neutered dogs were rated as less emotionally calm, less trainable, less sociable, and less extroverted than intact males. These findings highlight how hormonal changes following neutering can substantially influence behaviour and personality, raising questions about routine neutering practices.
The authors suggest that neutering decisions should be made on an individual basis, rather than as a standardised approach, and call for evidence-based guidelines to better inform owners and veterinarians about the potential behavioural consequences of neutering.
Source: Kolkmeyer, C. A., Cardona, A. M. Z., & Ganslosser, U. (2024). Personality Unleashed: Surveying Correlation of Neuter Status and Social Behaviour in Mixed-Breed Male Dogs across Weight Classes. Journal: Animals, Volume 14. Publication Date: 2024-08-01. Authors: C.A. Kolkmeyer, A. M. Z. Cardona, Udo Ganslosser. References: 121. Citations: 2.
