Spaying & Neutering
It is important to understand that Golden Retrievers, being a larger breed, should be spayed/neutered at an appropriate age; ideally 24 months old (2 years). My health guarantee states at least waiting until 18 months of age. Studies have been done on the effects of early spay and neutering, depending on age, associating with increase risks of certain cancers such as hemangiosarcoma, mammary cancer (detectable and treatable cancer) and joint diseases such as hip dysplasia. Puppies hormones are important for proper development such as closure of bone growth plates and regulation of female heat cycles. UC Davis provides an article that goes further into the details on this. Please review the articles provided before you decide to spay/neuter your Golden Retriever.
