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My 1-year-old intact dog growls at other male dogs. Is it a problem?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Norwegian Elkhound | Male | unneutered | 1 year and 4 months old | 80 lbs

Paisley has recently started growling at other Male dogs! Initially it was just other entire males, and has since began to do it at neutered males too.... he shows no sign of aggression and is always excited to meet other dogs but sometimes growls when he gets close! He is still intact and just turned one.... why does he do this? Is it cause for concern? Thanks in advance!

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 23rd, 2019

I am sorry to hear about Paisley! Some of these changes could be due to him reaching sexual maturity and being unneutered. If you are not planning on breeding him then I would recommend neutering him at this time. I would also recommend taking Paisley to see a trainer or veterinary behaviorist recommended by your veterinarian, as neutering is not always a gauranteed solution to dog aggression issues (though is usually recommended).

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