Restoration of Reproductive Hormone Concentrations in a Male Neutered Dog Improves Health: A Case Study

Abstract

This case study reports on the use of hormone therapy to treat a dog with a range of physical and behavioral signs that began after gonadectomy. A male mixed breed dog neutered at 7 months of age presented at 1 year with health issues impacting quality of life. Reduced mobility, limping, rapid weight gain, and fear of unfamiliar people were treated over the next 3 years with trials of pain medication, joint supplements, thyroxine, antidepressant, and significant diet restrictions. Frequent carprofen administration and daily joint supplements reduced limping, but mobility was still poor. Weight stabilized on a strict diet but fear and anxiety responses to strangers continued to worsen. Hormone restoration therapy was initiated when the dog was almost 4 years of age. Weekly subcutaneous administration of testosterone cypionate (0.5 mg/kg) significantly reduced pain and increased muscle mass, thereby improving mobility. However, supraphysiologic concentrations of luteinizing hormone were not reduced with testosterone therapy so a gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist was implanted. After hormone restoration, appetite was reduced, and anxiety and fear behaviors became manageable. The testosterone and gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist treatment was easily administered, had no known side effects, and the owners were pleased with the outcome.

Keywords: canine; gonadectomy; hormone therapy; luteinizing hormone; neuter; testosterone.