There is some research (and logical) evidence that most vets are not familiar with (shame on them) that indicates you should WAIT until your dog has reached full maturity before having them neutured/spayed. If you eliminate those sex hormones before they are done growing (which for large breeds can be two years of age), it affects the development of their bones and connective tissues, and can lead to disasterous orthopaedic results. Having been through orthopaedic hell with both my Akitas -- who were altered prior to maturity -- I will never make that mistake again. I know that for females spaying before the first heat reduces the chances of breast cancer. But, having a crippled dog is no fun, believe me. Personally, if I had it to do over with my female I'd much rather take my chances with the breast cancer, and will do so with any females I might get in the future. Dogs, like humans, need their sex hormones in order to grow properly, and not just for reproductive purposes. I'd be willing to bet, though, that your vet will NOT have seen the research on this topic even though it has been published in major veterinary journals. I wish I had been warned/read the research prior to having my own Akitas altered. My advice to you is to wait. There is no rush.
