Hi Karen-
This is another area with conflicting opinions. Most regular vets want to neuter at 5 to 6 months because it is easier on the dog. Others say to wait until they are full grown. I am absolutely no expert. Just a fellow dog owner with two 3 year old golden labs trying to learn as much as possible. But I tend to agree with many on this site that it would be best not to shut off their hormones (testosterone) until their joints are fully developed. Otherwise it tends to interfere with the closing of the growth plates. Which in the opinion of many, may increase chances of hip dysplasia. I was needlessly worrying about my dogs fighting because I have two males. They don’t fight and I don’t think they would have even if I waited longer. I think I’d rather have a more expensive and difficult surgery than a big dog with joint issues. You could start a topic on this subject and get some ideas from others as well. I wish you well.
