In the Literature
DeForge TL, Momen M, Conidi G, Muir P, Sample SJ. Age of neutering contributes to risk of cruciate ligament rupture in Labrador retrievers. J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2024;263(3):318-322. doi:10.2460/javma.24.06.0406
The Research …
Cranial cruciate ligament rupture (CCLR) is a prevalent degenerative condition of the stifle joint that often leads to lameness and can have significant treatment costs. Although CCLR is a complex polygenic disease with high heritability, environmental factors can also contribute to development.
This study was designed to identify modifiable environmental risk factors for CCLR by focusing on Labrador retrievers (n = 93; 58 with CCLR, 35 controls) with discordant phenotypes relative to genetic risk predictions. Examination included assessment of neuter status, age at neutering, body mass index (BMI), weight, height, and athletic activity level.
Neutering prior to 12 months of age significantly increased risk for CCLR development; however, overall neuter status, sex, and athletic activity were not associated with CCLR risk. Contrary to prior studies of mixed-breed populations,1,2 this study found no significant relationship between weight, height, or BMI and CCLR, suggesting breed-specific factors may influence these associations.
This research highlights the importance of delaying neutering in Labrador retrievers to mitigate CCLR risk, particularly in genetically predisposed dogs. Although athletic activity was not linked to increased risk, details regarding the type and intensity of exercise were not recorded. Findings confirmed that although genetic risk is a major determinant of CCLR, targeted environmental management can help reduce disease incidence.
… The Takeaways
Key pearls to put into practice:
CCLR is heritable in predisposed breeds (eg, Labrador retrievers); some environmental factors (eg, neutering prior to 12 months of age, obesity and high BMI, repetitive high-impact activities) may contribute to development of this condition.3,4
Advantages of neutering in companion animals include population control, decreased risk for some reproductive cancers, and potential for reduction in certain undesirable behaviors (eg, roaming, marking, aggression).5 Disadvantages include increased risk for some orthopedic joint conditions (eg, CCLR, hip dysplasia; especially when neutering is performed prior to 12 months of age), increased risk for weight gain that can increase joint stress and degenerative joint disease, and potential for increased likelihood of certain cancers (eg, osteosarcoma, hemangiosarcoma) in predisposed breeds.5-8
Delaying neutering until at least 12 to 18 months of age is generally recommended in large- and giant-breed dogs to support proper skeletal development. In low-risk breeds, the decision of whether and when to perform neutering should be based on individual health risks, lifestyle, and pet owner priorities. Some guidelines for deciding when to neuter based on breed and sex are available.9
Although further research on the pathogenesis of cranial cruciate ligament disease and preventive measures is needed, controlling environmental factors linked to increased risk for this condition may help reduce likelihood in dogs. Recommendations include maintaining a healthy body weight, delaying neutering until after skeletal maturity, providing physiotherapy or activities that build pelvic limb muscle to enhance joint stability, and modifying high-impact or repetitive twisting activities to prevent unnecessary strain.
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