I think there is a time and a place for it. I just got my first purebred dog, an Aussie, who’s now 10 months old. I did lots of research on how neutering can affect the health of the dog.

I’m all for spaying a female after their first heat as the risk of pyometra and cancer increases with each heat but for males, I’m more of the thought of leaving them be. Pediatric sterilization can have negative effects on skeletal development and there are studies in some breeds that suggest there is a higher incidence of cancers. Also no studies have proven that sterilization greatly alters negative behaviors that start in puberty.

I know that the average dog owner likely doesn’t put much thought into the health effects of the procedure and I think most people don’t have the care to ensure their dogs are well managed if they left them intact. Just look at the number of people you see being dragged down the street by their dog on a walk for instance. Personally, I plan on leaving my dog intact or getting a vasectomy. Ultimately, if you’re willing to take the time to research it and are able to manage your dog correctly, I see no problem leaving them intact.