Why is my dog suddenly aggressive and barking after neutering?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Male | neutered | 4 years and 1 month old | 100 lbs
Before being neutered, my 3 year old GSD never barked and was calm around other dogs. Right after though he started lunging and barking at passing dogs on our walks. Our very says neutering only reduces agression and doesn't believe me. Is there a way to get him back to his old calm behavior?
2 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on April 22nd, 2019
Testosterone is mood balancing and very occasionally in timid dogs castration can heighten anxiety and aggression. I would recommend working with a certified behaviorist to try and work through this and possibly medications may be required if not settling
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on May 3rd, 2018
There could be many contributory factors to this behavior, he is just reaching the age of puberty, packs of dogs hunting often become heightened and the loss of testosterone following castration can occasionally cause a worsening of aggressive behavior as testosterone is mood balancing. I strongly recommend restricting all dogs from hunting as an independent pack and starting some obedience classes with Lincoln. Consider natural calming aids such as zylkene and pheromone products
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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