[LaNora]

It was recommended by two different breeders to have my precious a 4.5 month old Chihuahua, Poppy, as soon as possible to avoid potty training problems, like hiking as he gets older. I do want to have Poppy use potty pads rather than going out, due to health reasons.
However, my vet will not neuter him until he is six months old. I have no doubt that he is doing what he feels is best for Poppy. That is what I pay him for and appreciate his opinion. Does anyone have any information on when it is ok too neuter?
Any help will be greatly appreciated, love my Poppy!
Thanks

 

[LaNora]

I wouldn't neuter a dog that early. I believe they need the hormones that kick in at adolescence for both physical and psychological development.

Do you mean you are concerned about him scent marking?

But I need to add, taking your dog out is about a lot more than toileting. Dogs are intelligent animals that need mental enrichment and a huge amount of that comes from exploring outdoors. If your health can't cope, can you get some help?

Thank you for your time, I appreciate you responding. I love my dog very much and he will be outside at times. I do not have anyone who can come to my house and take my dog out 5 to 6 times each day. Poppy has enrichment toys, a tunnel and we play fetch and visit with neighbors in my complex. Want only the best for him.

These days the trend is to neuter dogs once they are fully adult. For a large breed dog that would be over a year. The contract for one of my puppies says he can't be neutered until he reaches 18 months. Chihuahuas mature younger, but I still wouldn't neuter at 4.5 months. I would not consider hiking a leg to be a behavioral issue; it's completely natural and normal behavior in a male dog. Peeing inappropriately indoors, whether by squatting or by lifting a leg, IS a problem, but it's a problem I would address via training.

I don't normally recommend potty pads, but I understand they might be necessary if you are housebound or if you don't have a safe area to walk a tiny dog. I would make a special potty area with a tray in a corner. Attach adhesive clips to the wall and hang a potty pad to make a pee curtain if he shows signs of lifting his leg.

I agree that you should still make an effort to get him out for walks if it is within your physical capability. He's tiny enough that you could use a dog stroller or a crate strapped to a rollator to give him outings for his entertainment and mental health. Plus the dog stroller could hold supplies for you and help with stability.

Thank you so very much for this information. I greatly appreciate it.