Pros and cons of
Advisory
Altering of males prior to their achieving full maturity can retard their emotional development. It has been our experience that part of reaching the self-confidence level a particular Dobe was born with as well as achieving the natural protectiveness passed on through the blood line are many times lost if the production of testosterone is cut prematurely. There is no problem for those seeking a less aggressive dog but still wait until the Dobe is at least eight months old. Those seeking the maximum potential of their Dobe we recommend altering between 18 to 36 months of age. This variable is based on owner expectation; the greater the need for protection, the longer one waits to alter while those who seek more docile dogs alter earlier. WARNING: Altering before 18 months of age without written approval from the Hoytts voids all guarantees.
Spaying of females prior to passing through their first heat cycle has caused incontinence. The best time to spay is 4 months after the cycle ends. This allows the female to not only pass through but recover from false pregnancy, if any. Most Hoytt Dobe females 63 days following the center of their breeding cycle will show enlarged nipples and even a slight fluid discharge. Most think they are pregnant and will gather up their toys and find a quiet place for a few days to about two weeks caring for their 'babies.' In effect we give them time to get through this emotional state as well as returning to their pre-season physical condition. Why go through this? Because literally every female we know that was spayed before her first heat ended up incontinent and needed medication to control the wetting. WARNING: Spaying prior to first heat will void all guarantees.
