Behavioural issues after neutering

Poxbow

14/09/2020, 20:36

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Hi everyone,

So, last Friday I had my dog castrated.

I realise it takes a little while for a dog to get back to their old self after an operation like that, but I'm starting to get a bit concerned now.

Since the op, besides the fact that it's clearly itchy and he's constantly trying to scratch or lick the area, his behaviour has completely changed.

He doesn't want to play anymore, isn't looking for cuddles, and just paces back and forth between two corners of the flat (he settles there for a short while then heads back to the other side).

Even more striking is that as soon as it's time to take him out for a walk—which he used to love—he now runs away, whines, and barks (I’d actually never heard him bark until now). Once we're outside, it's even worse; he's completely unmanageable.

Does anyone have any explanations or advice for me? I just want to make sure I'm not doing anything wrong.

Thanks!

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Anonymous user Icon representing the flag French

15/09/2020, 07:52

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Hi there, I’m not sure how your vet operates, but with mine, the stitches had fallen out within nine days and the wound had healed perfectly. The healing process should be well underway by now, and unless you’ve got a really neurotic dog, he might go to have a look, but if you tell him 'no', he’ll leave it alone. Just take his collar off when you’re around; you just need to keep a close eye on him.

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Poxbow

15/09/2020, 07:34

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The problem is, if I take the cone off, I’m worried he’ll pop his stitches...

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Caroline-eg Icon representing the flag French

15/09/2020, 05:24

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I also think it’s more down to the cone. It really bothers some dogs; my mum’s Malinois went absolutely bonkers with it on. My dog might have been in slightly better shape than yours, but he was still a bit flatter than usual. Once it was taken off, they went right back to their normal selves.

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Mel1

14/09/2020, 23:35

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It’s probably the cone that’s upsetting him. It’s not exactly fun having a lampshade on your head 24/7! Try to take it off as much as possible—during walks, or when you’re there to keep an eye on him—and only put it on at night or when you’re out. That should give him a bit of a break.

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Bangdji

14/09/2020, 21:06

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The cone really messes with a dog’s spatial awareness (at least that’s what the vet told me), and some can find it very distressing.

I once had a dog who wouldn't move a muscle when she had the cone on. Not at all. For hours on end. She even ended up wetting herself.

My other dogs since then haven't been bothered by it at all, but perhaps your dog is just particularly sensitive.

Also, getting them neutered or spayed is often the first time in a young pet's life that they're left at the vet's. Some are absolutely delighted to see you when you pick them up, some will have a bit of a sulk, and others lose a bit of confidence...

So, it could also be that your dog has lost a little bit of trust in you for the time being 😬

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Emla

14/09/2020, 21:04

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The cone is really awkward and changes their behaviour so much.

It creates a bit of an echo chamber effect, which might be why he’s barking more. You could try taking it off for walks; he’ll be distracted enough not to worry about his stitches.

I must admit, the cone doesn’t stay on my dogs’ heads for very long at all after they've been neutered 😅.

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Poxbow

14/09/2020, 20:53

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Cheers for the tip. And yes, he’s wearing a cone, which is just as well! 😁

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Emla

14/09/2020, 20:41

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