Puppy Development
At Westwing Retrievers, we believe the most important time in a puppy’s development is within the first year. Most importantly, within the first 4 months of life. Even in their first 8 weeks with us, we start their social development and introduction to training, to better prepare them for their future homes. We strongly recommend signing up for any one of our training courses available, and/or sticking to a training regimen once they go home. A lot of what we practice and believe in closely resonates with Puppy Culture as well.
Spaying and Neutering
We strongly encourage all pet owners to wait at least 18 months to spay or neuter their dog. We could go on and on about the health benefits and risks of spaying and neutering early. This may be the first you are hearing of this, and you may be saying, I was always told to spay and neuter at 6 months. Or my vet says that the best time to spay and neuter is at 4-6 months or even 12 months or before the females first heat. However, recent studies show that waiting until full maturity is better for the dogs health than veterinarians were once taught. Please take a look at the research studies listed below to understand our beliefs.
Dr. Becker's Video: The Truth About Spaying and Neutering
Dr Becker: Why I've Had a Change of Heart About Neutering Pets
Long-Term Health Risks and Benefits Associated with Spay / Neuter in Dogs
Neutering Dogs: Effects on Joint Disorders and Cancers in Golden Retrievers