Dobermans and Neutering Recommendations Part II: Some Considerations When Interpreting Current Research Findings
As a loving Doberman owner, you want to ensure your pet receives the best possible care. We recently wrote a blog article about UC Davis's current spaying and neutering research, which was published in 2020. This research is currently popping up in Doberman Forums again in 2024 because the researchers added five more breeds to the original study while republishing the results of the other 35 breeds they researched in a table. Today, we will guide you through the limitations of UC Davis's current spaying and neutering research that suggests leaving male Dobermans intact and waiting to spay female Dobermans until they’re 24 months old.
The Research at a Glance
The study titled "Assisting Decision-Making on Age of Neutering for 35 Breeds of Dogs: Associated Joint Disorders, Cancers, and Urinary Incontinence" by Hart et al. (2020) provides insights into the health risks associated with neutering at different ages across various dog breeds, including Dobermans. Conducted at a veterinary teaching hospital, this research aims to help pet owners and veterinarians make informed decisions about the best age to neuter their dogs to minimize health risks.
Key Findings of the Study (Find full Discussion on Findings Here)
Joint Disorders: The study found that neutering at certain ages can increase the risk of joint disorders such as hip dysplasia and cranial cruciate ligament tears. For Dobermans, spaying females before 11 months increased the risk of joint disorders to 11%, although this did not reach statistical significance.
Cancers: The study observed that neutering could be associated with an increased risk of certain cancers, though for Dobermans, there was no significant increase in cancer risk associated with spaying or neutering at any age.
Urinary Incontinence: The research indicated a notable risk of urinary incontinence in females spayed at various ages, with a significant increase seen in those spayed before 2 years of age.
Understanding the Limitations
Population from a Veterinary Teaching Hospital: The study was conducted using records from a veterinary teaching hospital. Patients at such institutions often have more complex or severe health issues than those seen in general practice, potentially leading to an overrepresentation of certain conditions. This means the findings might not fully represent the general population of Dobermans.
Breed-Specific Data: While the study covers 35 breeds, the findings for Dobermans are based on a relatively small sample size compared to more commonly studied breeds like Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers. This means the conclusions for Dobermans might be less robust due to fewer data points.
Age of Last Entry: The mean age of the last entry for intact dogs was younger than that for neutered dogs. This discrepancy could affect the accuracy of the data on long-term health outcomes, particularly for late-onset conditions like certain cancers.
We have read some people argue the same for Pyometra. However, the recommendation is to spay female Dobermans at 24 months. The mean age in both research groups exceeded 24 months, and pyometra (a serious uterus infection) is usually found in older dogs with a median age of nine. As such, the risk-benefit ratio would appear low to justify earlier spaying.What is important in this research's discussion of Pyometra, however, is their finding that only 7% of intact Dobermans had Pyometra. As mentioned, the median age for Pyometra is 9 years. The mean age for the last record entry for intact females across all breeds was 4.7 years. Hence, the reason why the number might have been so low is that they simply did not study enough dogs at an age where they are more prone to develop Pyometra. Thus, you should not conclude from this research that your Doberman has a low chance of developing Pyometra when left intact for life.
Data Collection Methods: The study relied on veterinary hospital records, which may not capture all instances of health issues, especially if owners did not seek veterinary care for every problem. This could lead to underreporting of conditions.
Alternatively, the data may have contained other health conditions, but the researchers chose not to study them. Given that some of these health conditions could be serious and important in deciding whether and when an owner should neuter or spay their particular dog, the research may fail to provide crucial information in this regard.Lack of Confounding Variables: The study did not account for confounding variables such as breed-specific differences in diet, exercise, and overall lifestyle. For example, different breeds may have unique nutritional and exercise requirements. A breed like the Doberman, which is highly active and has specific dietary needs, might experience health issues if these requirements are unmet. If the study does not control for these variables, it could lead to misleading conclusions. For example, if Dobermans in the study did not receive adequate exercise or a proper diet, their risk of cancer could be higher, and this might be incorrectly attributed to neutering alone. Moreover, no matter how unlikely it seems, Doberman owners of, for instance, intact Dobermans could, on average, show different behaviors, such as decisions about their dog’s other health needs, including diet, that, on average, those who decide to spay or neuter their Dobermans do not show. Without accounting for such confounding variables, the conclusions about the relationship between some illnesses and spaying/neutering should be approached with caution.
Generalization Across Breeds: While the study provides breed-specific recommendations, each dog’s unique genetic and environmental factors can influence health outcomes. The results for Dobermans might not be directly applicable to every individual within the breed. Especially with a relatively homogeneous (veterinary teaching hospital patients) and small population they used.
Why These Limitations Matter
Applicability of Findings: Given the small sample size and potential underreporting, the findings for Dobermans should be interpreted with caution. What applies to one Doberman might not apply to another due to genetic variability and individual health conditions.
Overgeneralization Risks: Applying broad research findings to your specific dog without considering these limitations can lead to suboptimal care decisions. For example, following neutering guidelines based on general trends might not address your Doberman's unique needs.
Comprehensive Health Decisions: Understanding the limitations of research helps you and your veterinarian make more nuanced decisions. It encourages considering multiple factors, including genetics, lifestyle, and overall health, rather than relying solely on study recommendations.
Making Informed Decisions for Your Doberman
Consult with Your Veterinarian: Always discuss research findings with your vet. They can provide personalized advice considering your Doberman's specific health profile and the latest research insights.
Consider Individual Factors: Evaluate your dog's health, lifestyle, and genetic background. For instance, if your Doberman has a family history of cancer, this might influence your decision on the timing of neutering.
Stay Informed: Keep up with ongoing research and veterinary guidelines. Science evolves, and new studies might provide better insights or contradict previous findings.
Holistic Approach: Combine research insights with a holistic view of your Doberman's health. Proper nutrition, regular exercise, mental stimulation, and preventive care are all crucial aspects of maintaining your dog's well-being.
Research is an invaluable tool in guiding pet care decisions, but it's essential to recognize its limitations. By critically evaluating studies and working closely with your veterinarian, you can ensure your Doberman receives the best care tailored to their unique needs. Understanding and considering research limitations help you make more informed and balanced decisions for your beloved pet's health and happiness.
References
Hart, B.L., Hart, L.A., Thigpen, A.P., & Willits, N.H. (2020, July 7). Assisting Decision-Making on Age of Neutering for 35 Breeds of Dogs: Associated Joint Disorders, Cancers, and Urinary Incontinence. Journal of Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 7(388). https://doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2020.00388
Xavier, R. G. C., Santana, C. H., de Castro, Y. G., de Souza, T. G. V., do Amarante, V. S., Santos, R. L., & Silva, R. O. S. (2023, November). Canine Pyometra: A Short Review of Current Advances. Animals: an open access journal from MDPI, 13(21), 3310. https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13213310
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your veterinarian or other healthcare professional. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease or prescribe any medication or other treatment. Always consult with your veterinarian or other qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your pet's healthcare regimen, especially if they have or suspect they may have a health problem. The author and publisher of this article are not responsible for any adverse effects or consequences resulting from the use of any suggestions, products, or procedures mentioned in this article. The use of this information is at the reader's discretion and risk.
