Episode 68 - Rethinking Neutering Decisions in Dogs - Michelle Kutzler

In this episode of Canine Arthritis Matters, Hannah Capon is joined by Dr. Michelle Kutzler, a leading expert in veterinary reproduction, to tackle one of the most emotionally charged and confusing topics for caregivers and professionals alike: whether, when, and how to neuter dogs.

Drawing on decades of research and clinical experience, Michelle explains why there is no single correct answer to neutering decisions. The conversation explores the hormonal consequences of gonad removal, particularly the long-term elevation of luteinizing hormone (LH), and how this may influence musculoskeletal health, joint disease, ligament integrity, cancer risk, and behaviour.

Together, Hannah and Michelle discuss early neutering and skeletal development, osteoarthritis risk, ligament laxity, body composition changes, and the emerging evidence linking neutering to anxiety-related behaviours. They also explore alternative sterilisation options, including vasectomy, hysterectomy without ovary removal, intratesticular injections, and hormone-modulating implants such as deslorelin.

This episode emphasises contextual, individualised decision-making and highlights the importance of balancing health risks, benefits, and caregiver trade-offs. It is the first part of a wider conversation, with a follow-up episode planned.

Guest Bio

Dr. Michelle Kutzler graduated from Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine in 1993 and completed a residency in theriogenology at Cornell University, followed by a PhD in physiology. She has held academic positions at Oregon State University and, as of July 2025, joined the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine faculty.

Dr. Kutzler has authored over 100 peer-reviewed publications, more than 30 book chapters, and two textbooks in the field of animal reproduction. She serves as Chair of the World Small Animal Veterinary Association Reproduction Control Committee, co-chairs the International Symposium for Canine and Feline Reproduction Scientific Committee, is a scientific advisor for the Alliance for Contraception in Cats and Dogs, and is President-Elect of the American Association of Small Ruminant Practitioners.

Her research focuses on the systemic effects of gonadectomy, endocrine balance, musculoskeletal health, cancer risk, and behaviour.

Key Takeaways

1. There is no universal answer to whether or when dogs should be neutered; decisions must be individualised.

2. Early neutering permanently alters skeletal development, joint angles, muscle mass, and ligament stability, increasing OA risk.

3. Removal of gonads leads to lifelong elevation of luteinizing hormone, which has receptors throughout the body, including joints, ligaments, and the brain.

4. Some anxiety and behaviour changes in neutered dogs may be hormonally driven and, in certain cases, improve with LH suppression.

5. Alternative sterilisation options exist and should be discussed openly alongside traditional spay and neuter surgery.

Relevant Links

World Small Animal Veterinary Association Reproduction Control Committee

https://wsava.org/committees/reproduction-control-committee/

Alliance for Contraception in Cats and Dogs

https://acc-d.org/

International Symposium for Canine and Feline Reproduction

https://iscfr.org/

Deslorelin (Suprelorin) background information

https://www.virbac.com/home/our-products/pet-health/suprelorin.html

Learn more about CAM:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CAMarthritis

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/canine_arthritis

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/CanineArthritisManagement

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/canine-arthritis-management-ltd

Have questions send them to: [e-mail]

Stay tuned to learn how early detection can make a significant difference in managing OA in younger dogs.