Can Desexing Make Your Dog More Aggressive?

Pet desexing may not result in behavioural changes in your male dog, but it's not an unexpected development. The removal of your dog's reproductive organs halts their testosterone production, and in some cases, this can lead to your dog becoming calmer, with the reduction of some aggressive tendencies. But why does desexing occasionally make a dog more aggressive, and what can you do about it?

A Routine Procedure

Although desexing is a routine procedure, it's still invasive. After all, your dog's reproductive organs are being surgically removed, and this results in certain aftereffects. Despite the pain relief provided by your vet, your dog will still experience some discomfort as they recover from their desexing.

Increased Sensitivity

This discomfort can make your dog very sensitive to physical stimulation that can aggravate their body—or even the possibility of this stimulation. You may inadvertently cause your dog pain by handling them too roughly, or even too often during their recovery period. It doesn't take much physical pressure to aggravate the site of their surgery. Your dog may become aggressive as a defensive gesture. They can remember the discomfort caused by physical contact, meaning some aggression may be displayed before you even touch them—they're essentially warning you to keep your distance. 

Stress

In addition to the physical discomfort caused by their surgery, the process of visiting the vet, being sedated, and undergoing their desexing surgery can cause a tremendous amount of stress for your dog. Of course, some dogs are more affected than others, and it depends on your dog's individual personality. This stress can make your dog defensive, which can lead to aggression. If any aggression is thought to be related to your dog's recovery process, it's important to let your dog return to normal at their own rate. Should this behaviour continue, it may indicate a postoperative complication, which should be reported to your vet.

Different Forms of Aggression

Although testosterone is thought to regulate aggressive behaviour, it's not responsible for all forms of aggression in dogs. Forms of territorial or protective aggression may be reduced, but your dog may still display fear-based aggression, or even social aggression (attempting to dominate other dogs). Remember, not all aggression is regulated by testosterone, so desexing isn't a comprehensive treatment that will eliminate all forms of aggressive behaviour. Some types of aggression will not be altered by desexing, and should be managed with obedience training.

Some aggression caused by your dog's discomfort following their surgery isn't uncommon, and appropriate care must be taken. Also, some forms of aggression may be reduced following the procedure, but not all forms—so it's important to have realistic expectations. For more information on pet desexing, contact a professional near you.