How old is Hondo now? How much does he weigh?
It usually good to allow the hormones to kick in and wait till most of the growth is done. Anytime after 12 months is fine to neuter.
He will be the same personality....but may not start the marking habit as well as dog aggression if you have him neutered earlier. Dogs neutered before a year, often are taller, and may not have the large chest and head. But as I've seen in many older, male foster dogs....even though they were intact for years...never got the large head or chest..because of genetics.
What age does he have to be neutered in your contract?
Gina