Q: Jack Russell x Maltese. Will desexing help?

Question: To desex?
I have a Jack Russell x Maltese who is now 1 yr old. For the first 9 mnths of his life he was extremely timid, shook like mad in the car, around other people etc. He seems to be better now, to the point where we have actually got him to go for a walk with us (this has been hapenning for a couple of months). Problem is that he is now becoming a little boisterous, making his mark when he walks, pulling like mad on the leash (we say slow down and he does for about 2 seconds, then he's off and racing again) and barking at everything that walks by. Will desexing help this problem? We have been hesitant to get him desexed because of his initally extremely timid nature. We have had him since he was 3 months old, and we also have another dog who is now 1 year as well, desexed and very well behaved.
Posted: 23/02/2006

Answer: To desex?
Desexing your dog is a bit like a lotto. It may calm some dogs, some it has no effect. My jack is just the same when he is on a walk. He takes ME for the walk, marks every blade of grass, and is generally yells at everyone at the dog park! And he is neutered. It's just the breed, I think you would benefit more so from regular obedience training. A class environment, with a few dogs, on a weekly basis may be your best bet. Generally, I think it is good to have your dog desexed. If he is neutered he will be easier to train. Although it will probably not cure the JR's natural inquisitiveness.
Posted: 23/02/2006