Best time for neutering Maltese

When is the best time to get your maltese fixed? My little boy is currently 6 months, and he often gets "excited". If I do decide to get him fixed, will this "little red monster" come out less?
Helen

• I asked the vet when will it be safe to have him neutered. But to my surprise, the vet thinks that my pup is an obedient boy and said that after neutering, he will not be as active and playful like now.Is it true ? This vet is one of the best in town.

  Can anyone tell me what can or might happen to my pup if I do not neuter him? He has stop mounting on his toys, thanks to Pugish's advise. Will he start again and what should I do if he does?
  Cecilia

• I cannot believe that a veterinarian is opposing neutering your male Maltese and he is the best in town??!!! No, your dog will not be less active or playful. While I do not know the whole list of physical reasons you should get your male dog neutered, one that I do remember is that it will decrease the chances of testicular cancer/infections later in life. I have a 4-old male Yorkie/Yorkie mix, that was neutered at I think about 6-9 months. He was, and is still, just as playful and active after the neutering as before -- except for his recuperation. He had knee surgery at the same time -- as did my female maltese. I had trouble keeping the female maltese down and inactive, while the poor little male yorkie acted like someone had tried to kill him and wouldn't try to walk even an inch and wanted everyone's sympathy. Gee, sort of like humans.
  Rebecca

• Little Red Monster is a very creative way to put it! It is safe for most dogs, unless directed otherwise by a vet, to be neutered at around 6 months of age. Six months is the ideal time. Especially when they get too excited! (that can be so embarassing in front of guests!) And for most dogs, it lessens the male instinct that drives his little shows of affection! Some dogs are completely done with the habit after the surgery!
  Jessica