Chocolate lab acting aggressive – will neutering help?

Our question this week was:

My chocolate lab is 2 ½ -years-old and I have noticed changes in his behavior such as being aggressive towards smaller dogs and wanting to attack them and barking at strangers with the hairs on his neck standing. He also runs off and comes back home 2 hrs later. He had been very gentle up to now and friendly. What can be wrong? Would neutering him calm him? Please help me.

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Zaida Carrero

Answer

Hi – thanks for your email. Yes, neuter him. Soon. Intact dogs are generally more aggressive than neutered dogs. I’d recommended keeping him in a fenced in yard or on a leash. Obedience training may also be beneficial.

If he is aggressive and you allow him to run free, he may attack or injury another dog or person.

Best of luck!

Dr. Debra