Remaining Behavior
If you leave your male dog intact, you run the risk of his impregnating any female dog within his reach. Females dogs in heat give out a scent that no intact male dog can resist.

If you have a male dog, you must keep him confined at all times - either in your home, in a fenced yard or on a leash. Your neighbor could turn ugly - not to mention litigious - should your dog create a litter of puppies with his female dog.

Age For Neutering
It's standard practice in America for dogs to be neutered at very early ages (even as early as 8-weeks!). I believe the reason for this is that it's easier for the vet to operate on a young dog. There is no definitive answer to this question of what age is best. Your vet will have his/her own preference and you're at his/her mercy.

Keep in mind that spaying and neutering are the most frequent veterinary surgery in America today and for many dogs, the only surgery they will ever have. It's only prudent to be aware that a vet's encouragement to have your dog neutered is a financial benefit to him.

Genetics
No dog with a genetic disease or hereditary defect should be bred. If you get a dog from a shelter or rescue group, he probably will already be neutered but if not, I do recommend these dogs be neutered. There is no way to know their medical history and there's no reason to take chances on the health of any offspring. Any dog with significant personality disorders such as extreme aggression evidence by attacking other animals or humans should not be bred.

I am not advocating either neutering or not neutering your dog. My goal is to present realistic information that you are unlikely to find elsewhere on the Internet.

Do your own investigation using the Internet to read veterinary journals from veterinary schools. You'll find that the evidence on the benefit of neutering is not 100% positive! You'd never know that if you didn't look for it.

If your vet offers an opinion, it's appropriate for you to ask if this is based on some study or his/her personal opinion. Exercise your right to analyze your choices and make an informed decision.

Article adapted from http://toybreedexpert.blogspot.com

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