Should We Rethink Dog Neutering? Behavioral Insights from Dr. Stanley Coren
- Marika
- May 7
- 3 min read
In this continuation of Series 13 (Sex and Animals), we connect with the esteemed Dr. Stanley Coren to explore the complex and often controversial subject of spaying and neutering dogs. This conversation offers a fresh perspective on how humans interact with their four-legged companions.
Introduction to Spaying and Neutering
In North America, spaying and neutering pets has become almost a cultural norm. However, Dr. Coren invites us to reconsider these practices by examining the potential behavioral impacts.
Hormones and Canine Behavior
Dr. Coren, professor emeritus of psychology at the University of British Columbia, shares how early spaying and neutering may lead to negative behavioral outcomes and even physical issues, challenging our assumptions regarding aggression and fearfulness in dogs.
Misconceptions About Dog Behavior
Dr. Coren addresses several misconceptions about dog behavior. He emphasizes the importance of context in interpreting canine signals, debunking the idea that simple dominance hierarchies are akin to military ranks. Instead, he posits that dominance is more familial and situational, shifting as circumstances change.
The Effects of Hormonal Development
Dr. Coren advocates for less invasive sterilization methods like vasectomies and hysterectomies, allowing dogs to retain their hormonal balance, which can lead to better temperament and fewer health issues in the long run.
The Emotional and Cognitive Lives of Dogs
Dr. Coren argues that dogs have an emotional life and consciousness that shouldn't be overlooked. He highlights historical philosophical perspectives that denied animals' emotional capacities due to concerns over acknowledging their souls. Despite this, there is a rising acceptance of canine cognition, with laboratories now exploring these aspects openly.
Breeding and Behavioral Genetics
The podcast episode wraps up with a discussion about the future of dog breeds, exploring how breeding practices affect behavior and genetics. Dr. Coren supports controlled breeding programs, highlighting successful outcomes in guide dogs through genetic selection for intelligence and temperament. He warns that neglecting these aspects can result in generations of dogs with undesirable traits.
Dr. Coren’s insights urge us to consider the complexities of canine behaviors with the same respect and thoughtfulness we extend to human conditions.
Show Notes:
Episode 5 of Series 13: Sex and Animals Transcript
Dr. Coren, professor emeritus of psychology at the University of British Columbia, explains how early spaying and neutering may lead to negative behavioral and physical outcomes, challenging our assumptions about aggression and fearfulness in dogs. He advocates for less invasive sterilization methods, such as vasectomies and hysterectomies, which allow dogs to retain their hormonal balance, potentially leading to better temperament and fewer health issues over time.
Guest Bio: Stanley Coren, PhD, DSc, FRSC, is a distinguished psychologist and an influential voice in the study of canine behavior and human-canine interactions. He served as a psychology professor at the University of British Columbia, where he directed the Human Neuropsychology and Perception Laboratory until his retirement in 2007.
Throughout his prolific career, Coren has published over 1,000 articles and 40 books, many of which have become bestsellers. His work spans diverse topics, including sensory processes, neuropsychology, cognitive psychology, and canine behavior. His award-winning contributions to canine studies, such as How to Speak Dog, have been translated into more than 30 languages and recognized globally.
He continues to share insights on canine behavior through his blog, Canine Corner, on Psychology Today's website. Further information is available on Wikipedia.
Book Recommendations: Dogs Demystified: An A-to-Z Guide to All Things Canine by Dr. Marc Bekoff and King Solomon's Ring by Konrad Lorenz
Related Episodes: 81: Expanding Understanding in Canine Behavior Evaluations with Suzanne Clothier (Part 1) S8
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