Does Neutering a Dog Calm Them Down?

Neutering (or spaying) a dog can affect behavior, but whether it truly calms them down depends on several factors, including your dog’s age, temperament, and what behaviors you are hoping to change. Let’s explore what science and veterinarians have to say — and provide some natural solutions to help calm your dog.

How Neutering May Affect Dog Behavior

Reduction in Hormone-Driven Behaviors

Neutering reduces circulating sex hormones, which can help minimize certain hormone-driven behaviors. Male dogs may be less likely to roam, mount, or mark territory. Female dogs will no longer go into heat, reducing restlessness and the attraction of male dogs.

Decrease in Some Aggressive or Dominance Behaviors

Studies show that neutering can lower aggression related to testosterone-driven dominance or mating competition, but it is not guaranteed to solve all aggression issues — particularly those rooted in fear or poor socialization.

Possible Reduction in Energy

Some owners report that their dog seems a little calmer or less hyper after being neutered, but this can also be due to maturity rather than the procedure alone.

No Universal Behavior Fix

Neutering is not a cure-all. If your dog struggles with separation anxiety, excessive barking, or hyperactivity, training, exercise, and behavioral support are still necessary.

Age Considerations

The age at which a dog is neutered can influence behavior outcomes. Early neutering (before sexual maturity) may prevent certain unwanted behaviors from developing, while neutering later in life may have less dramatic behavioral impact.

Does Spaying Calm Female Dogs?

Spaying eliminates heat cycles, which reduces hormone fluctuations and can decrease pacing, vocalizing, and restlessness that some female dogs experience. However, it will not necessarily change temperament or address anxiety-driven behaviors.

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What You Can Do to Help Calm Your Dog

Daily Exercise: Adequate physical activity helps burn excess energy and reduce anxiety. Aim for two walks a day plus interactive play.
Mental Stimulation: Puzzle feeders, training games, and scent work can keep your dog’s brain engaged and reduce boredom-driven behaviors.
Routine & Consistency: Dogs thrive on predictable schedules. Feed, walk, and play at consistent times each day to help your dog feel secure.
Natural Calming Aids: Hemp Well Calm Dog Soft Chews combine organic hemp, chamomile, and lemon balm to promote relaxation without sedation.
Comfort Tools: Products like ThunderShirts or Adaptil pheromone diffusers can help during fireworks, travel, or thunderstorms.
Calming Music: Background music specifically designed for dogs can help reduce anxiety levels.
Behavioral Training: Work with a positive reinforcement trainer to address underlying anxiety and teach calm behaviors.
Veterinary Support: If anxiety is severe, your vet may recommend a full behavior modification plan or prescription medications.

Finding the right combination of exercise, training, and natural support can make a big difference in your dog’s overall demeanor — regardless of whether they are neutered.