The timing of sterilization in female German Shepherd Dogs is a decision that impacts their long-term health and well-being. This consideration revolves around the optimal developmental stage for surgical intervention.
Delaying the procedure until after skeletal maturity may reduce the risk of certain orthopedic conditions, such as hip dysplasia and cranial cruciate ligament rupture. Conversely, earlier intervention decreases the likelihood of mammary tumors. Weighing these competing factors necessitates a thorough understanding of breed-specific predispositions and individual dog characteristics.