We do not support early or “pediatric” spay and neuter. Pediatric for Miniature Poodles is believed to be at approximately 6-months of age for a female and 12-months for a male. We require our poodles to be spayed or neutered after a year of age per our contract, and strongly recommend a hormone-sparying alternative (see below). Studies show potential risks, particularly in dogs, including an increased incidence of joint disorders (hip dysplasia, CCL tears), specific cancers (hemangiosarcoma, osteosarcoma), and some behavior issues, often linked to the removal of essential hormones during development.
From Frontiers in Veterinary Science – Study 2 Below
Relevant Studies
1. Possible Relationship between Long-Term Adverse Health Effects of Gonad-Removing Surgical Sterilization and Luteinizing Hormone in Dogs
Check out more information about Hormone-Sparing Sterilization options here (including a Veterinarian Directory).