At What Age Should You Neuter a Yorkie? (Solved!)

You should neuter your Yorkie between 4-6 months old, waiting no more than one year at the latest. Neutering older or younger dogs can lead to complications that can be avoided by neutering your dog in the recommended age range.

Neutering your Yorkie is considered a simple surgery with its share of benefits and some risks that are believed to be more beneficial to the Yorkie in the long run.

What is neutering?

Neutering, also known as castration, is the surgical removal of a male dog’s testes.

At what age should you neuter a Yorkie?

The ASPCA recommends neutering puppies anywhere between 6 to 9 months old. Some puppies can even be neutered at 8 weeks old. For Yorkies, it is generally between 4 to 6 months. Ideally, it is done before the Yorkie turns 1 year old. If you are unsure, consult with your vet for the best course of action for your Yorkie.

Why should I neuter a Yorkie?

The ASPCA explains some reasons why neutering your Yorkie would be ideal, such as if you want your dog to avoid having puppies and possibly helping behavioral issues. 

Neutering your Yorkie cuts down the chances of testicular tumors, prostate disease, and territorial marking,

Should I neuter a Yorkie at a young age?

The suggested age Yorkies be neutered is between 4 and 6 months old. Twin Peaks Veterinary Center suggests neutering your dog once it has matured properly. If you are neutering your Yorkie as an older dog and it can carry additional risks compared to a younger dog. Each Yorkie is different so consult with your vet for the best time to neuter your dog.

Does neutering a Yorkie hurt it?

The process of neutering or spaying a cat or dog involves anesthesia during the procedure. A Yorkie getting neutered is no exception. The Humane Society of Charlotte explains that during the procedure, general anesthesia is used so the animal is put under and feels no pain during the surgery. Your Yorkie may experience some discomfort and pain after the procedure though.

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Does neutering a Yorkie change its attitude?

There is a common misconception that neutering your Yorkie can change its attitude entirely. While neutering a Yorkie will decrease its production of testosterone, it will not completely change your dog. Other misconceptions include that neutering your Yorkie could make your dog less protective of your home or it will make your dog feels less like a male. The Humane Society of Charlotte determined these to be false.

How to determine if you need to neuter a Yorkie?

First, discuss all of your options with your veterinarian to make the best, informed decision. There is consensus neutering/spaying your dog has benefits as well. Some of the benefits of neutering your male Yorkie include cutting the risk of impregnating a female dog, cutting the risks of possible testicular cancer and prostate cancer, and addressing behavioral issues.

Are there health risks of neutering a Yorkie?

Neutering your Yorkie does have its share of health risks as well.

What are the health risks of neutering a Yorkie?

Aside from the surgical risks, there are dangers of neutering a Yorkie (and as well as all dogs). The American Kennel Club explains that this can include a possible increase of certain cancers or joint damage depending on the breed. The American Kennel Club also states that the negative risks of neutering a dog were also influenced by things such as if the dog was neutered too early. To minimize the risks, make sure you discuss all options with your vet.

What are the surgical risks of neutering a Yorkie?

Like all surgeries, some risks will always be involved. Some of the surgical risks include:

  • A bad reaction to anesthesia. The risk is greater for older dogs and puppies. Talk to your vet to determine the best route.
  • Smaller dogs like Yorkie can also encounter risks like hypotension (low blood pressure) and hypothermia (loss of sustainable body temperature)

In an article found in Preventive Vet, it is estimated that 1 and 1,000 cats and 1 in 2,000 dogs die from anesthesia each year. It’s important to discuss the risks with your vet well beforehand to understand the potential dangers.

What else should I keep in mind?

While discussing the risk of surgery and anesthesia, veterinarian Dr. Heidi Shafford suggests asking these questions with your vet:

  • Discuss potential complications and steps to avoid those complications
  • Talk about the process of anesthesia, how it will be monitored, and specifics like who will be monitoring your Yorkie and how
  • Discuss the recovery and post-operative steps
  • Any other questions you are concerned about

How is a Yorkie neutered?

Follow any vet-specific instructions before your dog’s procedure. As mentioned at the beginning of this article, neutering, also known as castration, is the surgical removal of a male dog’s testes. According to the American Kennel Association, the procedure involves an incision made at the front of the male dog’s scrotum. From there, the testicles are removed and the incision is sewed up. It is known to be a simpler operative compared to spaying your dog.

How do you care for a neutered Yorkie?

Following your Yorkie’s operation, your dog will be monitored by the vet for the first couple of hours to watch for post-operative complications before you take your dog home. Make sure to follow the veteran’s post-operative care instructions.

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How long does it take for a neutered Yorkie to heal?

Male Yorkies tend to heal quicker than female Yorkies since neutering is a simpler procedure compared to spaying. Following a male Yorkie being neutered, expect swelling for 3 days and/or light bruising. There could also be physical discomfort. Limit physical activity for 2 weeks to ensure the incision healing successfully.

What do you need to do for the long-term care of a Yorkie who has been neutered?

There should be no complications. However, if you suspect something is wrong, consult with your vet to make the best-informed decision.