Behavioural Medicine, Session 5

Is Castration the Right Choice for Your Dog Patient?

Introduction: The decision to neuter a dog has profound implications for their behavioral development and long-term health. Using an evidence-based approach, this session reviews the latest data on how gonadectomy influences behaviour too.

Aims:
• To review recent literature regarding the impact of sex hormones on canine neurobiology.
• To provide a framework for ethical and clinical decision-making regarding neutering.

Learning Outcomes:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
• Evaluate the behavioral risks and benefits of neutering for individual canine patients.
• Offer evidence-based alternatives and timing recommendations for surgical or chemical castration.