Golden Retriever Site Discussion Forum

For Duke to attend doggie daycare he has to be neutered. He will be 8 in a few months and is perfect in every way. I don't want to do something to him that would be an emotional event impacting his behavior.
Our vet said that neutering would eliminate the risk of testicular cancer, which can be a potential problem as they get older.
I'm looking for opinions.

Neutering can avoid future medical problems. I've yet to see any real changes in behavior in my dogs after neutering. For young dogs that are fairly dominant, it can calm them down a tad, but that isn't always the case. In this case your dog is eight and I would have to say that the effects of neutering, after recovery, wouldn't be noticeable. Humans have to have a similar type procedure if they have testicular cancer (in some cases), yet go on leading normal lives afterward. I think, and I speak for myself here as well, that it's more of an emotional event for the owner than the dog. I would feel confident in saying that Duke will be back to his old self within a week if not sooner. I personally feel that there is more upside, like avoiding potential future medical issues, than downside. That said, at eight years old it's really a judgment call on your part. Best of luck with Duke and thanks for posting your question.