Wow-loaded question. My bottom line is “it depends”. It depends on the owner. Why did they choose a particular breed? The owner’s plans for the dog-hunting, breeding, showing? Depends on the owners knowledge and willingness to train and work with the dog. Some breeds need a lot of work to ensure that the dog is mindful, comes on command and demonstrates respect for the owner,family and community. Called socialization which is the owner’ responsibility. Depends on the environment. Urban living or rural living. It depends. I spent a lot of time in the field with cows and heifers on dairy farms in Wisconsin. Not one farmer wanted to keep a bull on the farm. Some told of the old days when bulls were routinely kept on a farm for stud. They shared tales of instances in the farming community where someone on the farm was killed by a bull. Today the majority or dairy farmers raise and own steers. While I could go in the fields and walk with with cows and heifers I was told not to go out with the steers. Same goes for stallions vs geldings. As a kid I rode geldings. I support and do not judge dog owners who have seriously weighed out the pros and cons of not neutering and decided it is best for the dog and the owners relationship with the dog. I also support and do not judge dog owners who have seriously weighed out the pros and cons of neutering and decided it was best for the dog and their relationship with the dog. My point is that opinions one way or the other are valid, but I would qualify the decisioning process as “it depends”.

I own, hunt, and love my Field Bred English Cocker, ”Woody”. When I researched and finally decided on a breeder he advised me to keep him in tact. My very knowledgeable & trustworthy trainer advised the same. They both emphasized that excersise, good diet, lots of affection, positive reinforcement and especially training is the way to go. They were right - he is great in the field, always friendly and happy - and a great companion. Invest in your dog - friends forever. My breeder said to me - “As much as you love this dog - he will love you more”. Enough said. Thanks Stonnie for this important message.

Thankfully. Someone with good sense about this issue. After 40 years of owning Pyrenees, I never have, and would never, ever do that to any of mine.

Living in Norway where spaying/neutering, cropping, docking, declawing and debarking is illegal. Thankfully:) They still go to dog daycare and there are seldom any issues with male dogs being together. If there are any females smelling good, we take away the female and the males have no issues being together what so ever. Most agression that we see stems from poor socialization and training.

I see the pros and cons to neutering. And realise that it is often over sold as a quick fix solution to behavioural problems BUT if you asked me to chose between my left foot and going through periods every month I’d opt to be spayed 🤷🏼‍♀️😂

I’m the exception, at 71 years old I’m still walking every day, I don’t have much daily needs for my testicles unfortunately

perfect timing for this video to come up. I have a 10 month old male that I had to cancel a neuter appointment due to a conflict in schedule. I think now, I'm going to leave him alone. You just saved me $250 and you saved Gus his nuts.

My 18 month old field Lab is intact. My vet advised that if we decide to neuter, to wait until he is fully developed because they need those hormones to develop muscles and bones properly. He is such a mellow and well behaved dog that I have decided to "not fix what ain't broke."

I work in the veterinary industry, i'm against neutering males but with females it is more complex due to some getting phantom pregnancies after every season which can be distressing for the dog, cause them to loose weight and seem miserable. Also there have been lots of studies from data collected from norway where they are against spaying and by 10 years old 20% of un-spayed females will get an infection called a pyometra which can be deadly if not caught early enough, it can be treated by spaying when they get a pyometra but in severe cases dogs can go into toxic shock. I have a 9 month old female labrador and waiting to see if she has a bad phantom pregnancy after her first few seasons to decide when to spay her, my current idea is to spay her at close to 2 years old when fully grown at the moment.

The sad thing is though, that most dog owners should be cat owners, or own no pets at all. They simply aren't qualified, and will make no real effort to become qualified. Neutering is often the lesser of two (or more) evils, unfortunately.

I think this isn't a simple issue. The decision depends on a combination of factors for the family/pack and the dog. I appreciate this perspective and would advise anyone thinking about neutering their dog to watch the video.

I’ve spayed or neutered every dog I’ve ever had with zero problems. I like to wait until they’ve grown a little or whenever my vet recommended it. However I got my current golden retriever when he was a year old and his first owner had him neutered at 8 weeks which is crazy young IMO. He is 4 now and seemingly very healthy and no problems so far.

Stonnie, are your thoughts on spaying female dogs the same?

You are hilarious. 😂 Great analogy! I’ll remember that one the next time my husband mentions that we should get our dog fixed. 😁 Thank you for your videos!

I’m enjoying my 5th un-neutered lab. I think Bob Barker (RIP) did a good job convincing folks that it’s necessary. None of my dogs ever had accidental breeding incidents or health issues because they weren’t neutered.

Another subject that I would love to hear your perspective is proper dog Nutrition.

We had an intact male boxer who was a fantastic, gentle dog. Until he turned 3. One day he got a crazy look in his eyes and stood statue still, eyes fixated on me. I am not weak, and am always pack leader. He decided to challenge me that day. Got him neutered very shortly after and never had another issue. Back to my best bud.

We got a rescue Caucasian Ovcharka at 9 months old and the SPCA had "done" him the day before. I was choked that they would do that to a giant breed at such a young age but the vet said it was "policy". I told her I thought they were here to help and protect helpless animals, she said if you don't want him leave. He is just over two and 150lbs still growing and that is always in the back of my mind, "hope they didn't screw up his life"

Hey Stonnie, completely agree on male dogs. Please share your thoughts on female dogs or point me to the previous discussion.

Stonie dropping the knowledge once again 🙌🏼 thank you sir.

It's simple for me. Why would I put my dog, through an unnecessary, medical procedure?

So glad you commented on this! Homer (Mastiff) is almost 4 years old and living his best life (NOT overweight) muscular, lean, and still active. After doing some research I came to the conclusion that what is best for HIM and HIS quality of life would be not to neuter. It seems like there are a ton of people being pressured and told what to do with weak and mindless arguments. I was reading how in Europe most dogs are not neutered (considered inhumane), their vets are trained to do vasectomy versus in the States that isn’t even being taught to our vets. As a man that has sons, I truly believe there is a war on masculinity in all forms (including dogs) based on fear and incorrect information. Lord help our nation!

We will not neuter or spay another dog. It really makes no sense to remove organs which alter the dogs' body chemistries, not to mention the surgeries, anesthesia, and heal-time. The foot analogy was great! We have been changing everything about how we use veterinary services in the past 4 years. We have decided against all but the first set of DHPP shots (for puppies). Our dogs are quite isolated, being rural, and don't go into dog communities so they have very minimal exposures. In our state, we are mandated to get Rabies shots but we postpone as long as possible. Our 7 month old Silver Lab still does not have a Rabies shot. After our 5 year old male Labradoodle was diagnosed with Lymphoma this past January, we took a very serious look at ANY causative agents that could have caused the Lymphoma for a dog this young. We only have 1 answer, aside from genetics. We are very suspicious of the Lyme vaccines we gave this dog, at the recommendation of our trusted vet. The more we learned, the more leery we have become...and not just with vaccines but with unnecessary treatments/surgeries, and commercial dog foods (which we do not use). Note: Our Labradoodle underwent the chemotherapy (CHOP protocol) for Lymphoma and is now in remission. Having a beloved dog get a 'death sentence' will shake a dog owner to the bones. We have made big changes in our veterinary recommendations.

I've had three male dogs over the course of my life, and they were all intact. They were all GOOD dogs, therefore I saw no need to have them "fixed". The worst "leg humper" dog in the family was my mother's female poodle, which had been "fixed".

I love your channel and have learned a lot since finding your videos. We all have our own opinions on this issue - I am born and raised in Southern California. Grew up in the country riding/ showing hunter- jumper horses. I did this for over 25 years. No one had stallions at these shows. All the males were gelded. You will never convince me that a stallion and a gelding are equal in relation to temperament. Gelding , spaying, neutering all serve a purpose. It’s helps to calm the animal down. We don’t all live on multiple acre farms and spend all day working our animals. A lot of us who live in high cost area must work outside the home. Also not all breeders will allow you to keep your animal intact. It is in the contract. We just purchased our 4th yellow lab. He is a male. We have limited registration and need to neuter him. So I guess the bottom line is - if you have the time, knowledge and means to work with your dogs all day everyday- keeping them intact might be for you. But for a lot of us the just isn’t life. And not one of my altered animals , cats dogs horses , ever suffered any problems from doing this.

Stonnie, what about a vasectomy? The dog would be intact but could not impregnate another and would still have the natural hormonal influence. Just a thought. Thanks- you have great videos and I always learn something.

Been waiting a while for this video! Thank you uncle stonnie!

I am so glad people are waking up to the fact that neutering is not always the answer, neutering before fully developed can cause problems down the road, particularly in larger dogs. I do not let my nerds out to roam! Am putting a game fence to be sure my jumper (Mal) cannot get out.

Would love a video on dog nutrition for the master himself please

If you can prevent contributing to the high number of healthy dogs being disgustingly killed for SPACE in shelters, if you can capably secure your dog, then you are a rare individual that can keep your male dogs intact (females are a different matter). Stonnie should discuss this while we all see dogs getting their vein pumped with death as the healthy dog shows nothing but trust. If that doesn't bother you, you really are NOT worthy of your dog's loyalty. What's happening to these dogs in shelters is an *ultimate betrayal* Places that impose spay neuter for most dogs do see a drop in the influx at shelters. Most people are nothing like Stonnie. Most people really should be doing spay/neuter. The guys I know at my Retriever club are not most people. I generally trust them to never cause a problem contributing to all the dogs playing Russian Roulette in packed kill shelters as shelter staff have to pick who dies every few days to make space. That's man's best friend!!!! Dogs have such a noble symbiotic relationship with us! They help us. They're our guide dogs! Our military dogs! Our best friends! Dogs only end up in shelters because some low life dumped their responsibility onto others! Among my Retriever friends, some of their Retrievers are altered, particularly working females they are no longer breeding. The reality is that spaying a female makes life easier. Heat cycles are not a joy. You must be extra vigilant securing an intact female. The average person is just NOT typically dedicated enough to have that responsibility. There are alternatives to conventional spay neuter. Vasectomies and ovary sparing spay is an option a vet can do. Once you've seen beautiful healthy dogs that have no behavior issures killed for space across this country, especially in Texas and California, you will be thinking pragmatically. I, too, prefer to leave male dogs intact. The b.s. about neutering creating better behavior is not exactly true. As for spaying, only keep females intact that you think you may breed. So, first 4 years you might be managing an intact female. 4 years is ample time to assess if you want this dog's genes preserved in your future lines. If not, spay! Make life easier! If you don't want to do a full spay, do the ovarian sparing alternative. But managing an intact female means you accept full responsibility!!! You cant dump your responsibility upon others. This country has a severe irresponsibly problem regarding the deplorable carelessness creating high numbers of dogs flooding onto shelters that are being killed for space. That's unacceptable. Its all preventable. Need awareness? Look on Facebook (or TikTok) at *Raising the Bar: Urgent DFW Shelter Dogs* There are hardworking volunteers evaluating and promoting these code red (euth listed) dogs as best they can. If you have EYES and canine experience, and a decent beating ❤ heart, you will see this is tragic. Packed shelters kill man's best friend. That's betrayal! These dogs would never dump you there. If you all have no clue what euthanasia of perfectly healthy dogs looks like, there is an old 80's documentary that will give you an honest glimpse. It's called *Kiss the Animals Goodbye* If you claim to love dogs like they love you, you will find that video unbearable to watch. Dogs are not throwaways. Ive had recues and reputable breeder (the life long dedicated kind) sourced dogs ( mainly field line Retrievers). They have all been wonderful. One of my best field Labs was a rescue! I had him 17 years! Now that Im on this topic, Id love to see Stonnie feature shelter sourced dogs. He can bring along some rescues as adoptables. It would make it all more interesting. He could feature foster dogs (you get a bigger audience, hello?). Stonnie has the knowledge and skill! Ive got ample friends that have trained their shelter sourced finds into multi-titled dogs. AKC is open to mutts (and non-mutts that are absolutely in shelters especially Shepherds!!!!). AKC is not just for recognized breeds (that's way too limiting! AKC figured that out!). Stonnie come on you have to have seen some shelter sourced dogs that have impressed you. Ive got a "mutt" I got as a freebie from out in the countryside of Tennessee. He came to me emaciated full of parasites. They get that way due to irresponsible humans!!! He is now 85 lbs of easy keeper healthy! Ive had him Embark DNA tested. Turns out he is a Golden Retriever × Treeing Walker Coonhound. He looks like a shorthaired chocolate Lab. He sure can tree squirrels!!!! Great dog! I hate to imagine if a dog like him had ended up in a high kill shelter 💔. These shelters are 😥 PACKED!!!! That is a betrayal!!! It's why I absolutely advocate spay neuter for nearly everyone's dogs. Exceptions can be made if you can prove you have the track record and secure facilities to keep intact dogs. Stonnie you're a far cry from the average person that casually gets a dog. You can manage intact dogs. I have no faith in the average person doing the same! Look at the disgusting shelter kill numbers out there 😢!!! I helped get a pair of hunting pointers into rescue in Fort Worth, TX. Angers me to no end how selfish irresponsible too many people can be! Dogs are not throwaways ever! Until this country has far lower euthanasia rates at shelters, preferably zero, Im on board with widely enforced spay neuter of most dogs. As I said there can be approved exceptions like those that obtain a breeder license, or pay for the privilege to keep an intact dogs. Just yesterday I was too late 💔 helping a group in California trying to make tough decisions which dogs they could pull from Riverside which is one of the worst high kill shelters in the country! The dog I couldn't save was named Rocko. He looked like a 9 -12 month old Retriever x German Shorthair Pointer. Seeing his innocent face in those video clips is going to haunt me 💔. The shelter euthanized him. I was absolutely out of my mind angry! That dog had so much potential! At this time spay neuter for most people's dogs is absolutely necessary! Get rid of low end backyard breeders that don't microchip ID their pups to trace back to them for life! Get rid of Amish puppy factories! As I said exceptions to spay neuter can be made. Most of my Retriever friends (hunt test titled microchip and DNA ID'd dogs) are proof that responsibile people can maintain intact dogs. Everyone else? No! If your dogs aren't in a proper secure fence they cannot escape, you spay/neuter! Gee look at Stonnie's facility? It is FENCED!

My vet suggests it every time we bring in our two dogs and my husband and I reject it every time. Of course the possibility of cancer will be lower if you don’t have the part that could get cancer, but that doesn’t mean I should mutilate my dog over it. I’m glad I’m not alone in thinking this way.

Thank you Stonnie for addressing this issue! Everyone pushes to neuter for the exact same reasons you talked about but for the exact same reasons! Why should I chop off healthy body parts of my Dutch Shepherd if I am a decent dog owner, trainer, and work hard to manage my dog responsibly :-) thank you thank you!

Stonnie, thanks for bringing that up. Couldn't agree more!

The prevention of testicular cancer via neutering has an efficacy rate of 100.00000000% owing to the surgically imposed absence of said testes.

I have a solid black DDR GSD - he just turned 3 yrs and has all of his bits. He’s awesomely handsome, athletic and never roams (we live in the woods and he has ample opportunity. He prefers to stick around his family because we give him tons of frisbee throws; adventures, training, love and high quality freeze dried raw treats/ homemade food,

When we had our first dog (lab/border collie mix) we had him neutered right at six months at the urging of a big city vet under a monthly "health plan." Needless to say the dog developed arthritis at a very early age and we spent his whole changing up his diet and working to find supplements to ease the pain and increase motility. We found out along the way from another vet that neutering a dog especially a large breed (if you're going to do it at all) should not been done until at least until 1.5 or 2 years old (after the growth plates on the bones have healed over). Genetics may also have been at play with that dog, but it was sad to see a lab mix who at about seven years old no longer wanted to go on walks out of the yard because it literally pained him to do so. We came up with other yard games like catch as well as tossing him a large ball so he could jump and bonk it off his mouth back to you to keep him engaged. Our current dog (GSP/lab mix) is approaching a year and a half and is intact and will remain so likely forever. The issue with that is that in the city it is very difficult to find a kennel that will take an intact dog who is older than six months.

We have a 2 year old intact male spaniel. We did some research before we got him as a puppy, spoke to anyone we came across with intact dogs and the vet we intended to register him with. He was checked and weighed monthly in his first year with us, as is normal practice at the vet. We took notice of how he interacted with other dogs, people and animals and his general attitude to learning and life. We now know he will always be intact unless there is a medical reason to not be.

I usually agree with you, Stonnie. But on this topic, I disagree entirely. I have owned dogs, horses, and cattle, both fully intact and neutered. Testosterone makes animals crazy, no matter how well trained. Neutered animals are much more manageable. Biology wins over training every time.

Good one !!!! Thanks for that candid view , most appreciated.

This is a topic I sincerely wish veterinarians cared more about - in relation to what’s REALLY best for a dog health-wise. Instead, it’s an easy money maker. And of course, when you rescue/adopt, you are given no choice but to neuter/spay. Some increased health risks in dogs who ARE neutered, both too early or in general: Cushings disease, hemangiosarcoma, lymphoma, mast cell tumors, and canine cruciate ligament (CCL) rupture in neutered dogs. The most profound observations were in hip dysplasia in male dogs when comparing early and late-neutering. The risk of development of hip dysplasia doubles, and disease occurs at a younger age in the early-neuter group compared to both the intact and late-neuter group. No occurrence of CCL disease was observed in intact male or intact female dogs, or in late-neutered females. I was not informed on any of this when I spayed my puppy back in 2018. And my other was a rescue who was neutered far too early at 8 weeks. I had no say in that. But his energy tanked at 3 years old already. He went from a lively puppy up through 2 years old, and by 3, he stopped playing altogether outside and walks became slower and slower. He’s almost 8 now, and is the laziest dog I’ve ever seen. I just pray he doesn’t develop any diseases and I pray my Malinois who I was told to spay if she wasn’t going to have pups anyway, doesn’t suffer anything more severe than she already has. I don’t know if it’s related or not, but her teeth are way too brittle. She also is taller than most, which they say comes from spaying/neutering before they are fully developed. I now have a new Malinois puppy and before I got him, I had done enough of this research to know I WILL NOT neuter him.

I have really been struggling with this decision. My Golden is 2.5 years old and I love his energy and he's extremely athletic. I am getting pressure from the vet, my friend, who is a trainer, and cousin, who is a vet tech, to neuter him, and they all say it will reduce the chances that he'll get testicular cancer and prostate cancer and maybe other types. But when I read articles about it, the correlation between not neutering and increase in those cancers (except testicular obviously) appears very minimal and very breed specific AND there seems to be some research that the likelihood of other types of cancer might go up after neutering. I trust my cousin and friend/trainer and the vet seems competent. But, part of me wonders if there are so many stray dogs and cats running around (and it is a problem) that the industry decided a long time ago to really push neutering in an attempt to reduce the amount of strays and in the process decided scaring people with the big "C" word was one way to do it and now its ingrained in anyone who is involved with dogs on a professional level. On the other hand, I'm going to feel horrible if Jake does get cancer and I didn't neuter him. So, I've really been torn. Thanks for the video.

When I adopted my wolf dog, I did get him neutered. He was naturally aggressive and it helped lessen it. Now I have 2 husky mixes, brothers, and chose not to. They are happy and sweet. Great dogs with a great disposition and highly trainable. I don’t see any reason to do that to them. Thank you so much for you video!

I'm sure this was pushed by vets many years ago as a way to increase business. Honestly, I would give my left one, (of either) to have that much beautiful land to do adventure training with my dogs and family. 😂

It’s quite unfortunate that neutering is (seemingly) necessary due to the majority of owners’ incompetence. Most people value cuteness over practicality, laziness over structure and work, and (perceived) love for their dog over anything else, etc.. An analogy: the majority of owners’ perceived love for dogs is like that of human hunger at a buffet - we (think/feel like) we want more than we should have or can handle. Many go dog shopping and don’t think before they buy/adopt/rescue/whatever. Any dog trainer/owner of competence understands this, and I think it comes down to a selfish and/or ignorant state of mind from owners. I’ll take it a step further and ask what would happen to many dogs if people weren’t so selfish/ignorant when making these decisions? More dogs get put down from not being rescued/adopted? Is this a better outcome, on the contrary? It’s also a much more complex question than that, because we have to bridge that gap and educate people ad nauseam. So I guess one question would be, how do we accomplish that when people are content with simply buying their kids electronic devices in order to neglect their true responsibilities of teaching and disciplining, or understanding kids as parents?

My large Aussiedoodle Max is 6 months old and everyone is pushing to nuter him , i run him miles everyday and hes an house dog too i figure they grew down there for a reason im glad i held off

All the excuses they give for neutering are fallacious and just another example of “The Pet Industrial Complex” destroying dogs with that evil word CONVENIENCE. Dogs are awesome but they are not convenient. Thanks Stonnie , awesome as usual!

This is an interesting question. My dog is 13 months old, a French bulldog bred from family pets in the UK. So far no breathing or health issues. He’s a lean athletic 38 pounds and moves like a rocket now winter has arrived. We’ve followed Stonnie’s videos for a year and go on many adventures in the Peak District national park and forest. Our vet is not advocating neutering our dog. He reckons dogs do better in general with their hormones intact. It’s better for bone, muscle health and can actually prevent certain cancers. Our vet is all about prevention rather than cure with monthly visits to check on weight gain and general health including temperament. We have no plan to neuter. His training, such as it is, pretty much follows Stonnie’s theories and practices. Our dog has decent manners, can be handled by the vet without issue, is usually friendly with other dogs and most (but not all) humans. He will come when called because l make sure l’m a crazy lady. One other point - we don’t feed him crap. We don’t feed ourselves crap either.

I was always taught from a young age that the reason to neuter a dog was that if you don’t intend to breed them you’re inviting problems. Same as if you get a herding dog but train it it’s whole life to ignore those instincts it’s cruel. If you have a dog who’s instincts say to procreate but you train it to ignore that it’s cruel. Not saying that’s right. It’s just what I was taught. The foot thing makes good common sense and I’ll have to chew on that in future.

When I picture my dog coming towards me without one of his back legs I start laughing uncontrollably. Sorry. He would never visit you again.😂😂

As a longtime professional dog trainer I am against neutering, but the left foot analogy doesn't work. Dogs aren't physically crippled by neutering.

Shame on facilities like “dog bars” and “doggy day care “ requiring dogs be neutered just perpetuates the myth to ignorant pet owners

I've found that neutering has adverse health issues, such as weight management. We know that labs are driven by food, and we've all seen overweight labs. Exercise, yes! Quality food, yes! But those organs have more function than solely reproduction! Teach the dog what's acceptable and what's not, they'll understand and behave.

I don’t dock tails, crop ears, or neuter dogs. At the same time, there are a lot of irresponsible pet owners, and unfortunately the pets suffer.

I introduced my new puppy to my neighbor brother just recently and he made it a point that I should get my canine neutered. I've been hearing so much controversy on this matter and will never tell someone to do that. It's an individual choice. I'll see how it goes without before I attempt to do that. I am weighing the pros and cons. I've been researching the matter. Peace to all.

My intact Black Lab is 3 yrs old and the most well-behaved stud, BUT I'm a responsible owner that is aware of females in my area and their heat cycle. He is the first Lab that I've left intact and he's mellow, gorgeous square head and physique, and content as can be! I'm happy that he can be his full self both in development and demeanor.

Imagine that; I grew up with dogs all my life thus far and neutering them was never something that even came to mind to correct or prevent any behavior or health issues. Exercise, solid diet, and very basic training was all I would do; never have I been unable to address these issues that neutering supposedly addresses just by doubling down on training, exercise, discipline, and structure. I have had temporary problems with some dogs solely based on personality and I have later in life witnessed the same issues arising with neutered dogs that individuals claim that it fixes. This all leads me to believe that these issues lay primarily with the owners of these dogs. Outside of a sudden medical condition that arises that requires the procedure for the health and well-being of the dog I just can’t see the need. I can’t imagine a dog not being it’s healthiest when fully intact and well cared for. Sometimes you do everything right and shit happens; doesn’t mean you shouldn’t do it all over again given the chance. Adjusting for a future you are guessing could be is truly pointless. There is a reason they say hindsight is 20/20; only when things unfold can there be any clarity. 😊

Interesting perspective, and a good point for responsible dog owners to consider. I used to volunteer at an animal shelter where spaying/neutering was seen as unquestionable - just the thing you do. I get it when you see so many homeless pets, more coming in each day, and too many are ultimately put down. They spayed and neutered all pets before adoption, including healthy puppies and kittens at 8 weeks old. I thought it was the right thing to do, and maybe it is for that situation. There are a lot of irresponsible owners out there. I don’t know. However, in the years since I was there, I have learned a lot more and seen a friend’s dog injured by too-early neutering. When I get a dog, I’ll have to think long and hard, and I definitely won’t do it early if I do it all.

I don’t think there going to be a “lively debate” the way you’ve explained your point I think everyone is in the “column A” section.

Best video ever! I always say, “it isn’t testicles that make a dog a jerk, it is lack of training!”

My hubby will he surprised to wake up tomorrow without his left foot! I think he'll understand once I explain.... Our local shelter rarely has litters of unwanted puppies. But they have many "two year old lab mixes" looking for their forever home. Overflowing shelters? It seems that unwanted pregnancies are much less of an issue than lazy or busy owners that can't or won't put in the work needed to have a calm, attentive, polite dog.

In the UK they are able to do it without removing the gonads. They have a way of doing it for females too. I wish it was available in the US. Cancer aside, there are health issues that that come from spaying and neutering. Thank you, Stonnie. We need re-education in the US.

We have a beautiful, well behaved, intact Long Haired German Shepherd. He is 3 years old. We may breed him in the future, we may not. Sadly, the stigma on "fixing" your dog is so strong that we were rejected in an application to add a second dog to our family - a rescue dog that would have been spayed before we ever got her. As a result of this "policy" that indicates we are "bad owners" because our dog is not neutered, we subsequently purchased a purebred, expensive, designer dog. They were happy to take our money! Tell me that fits the intention of the rescue's philosophy? Of course, this is ridiculous. I had a well behaved recue pit bull for 13 years! My hubby has the shepherd, and we have no issues, good histories. The system and perspectives on spay/neuter are broken!

I've had 4 female dogs over the years. 3 were rescues and had been spayed early. Those 3 each had urinary incontinence and had to be put on hormones to control "leakage". I swore I would not do that to another dog. Especially since the research I've seen says it disrupts their hormones, and thus their growth and protective hormones and makes them susceptible to difficulty later in life.

I have a 1 y/o yellow lab and he’s the first dog I’ve decided not to neuter due to videos like this and others making people more aware and the only downside I’ve noticed is he is hyper obsessed with peeing on trees, fence posts etc and won’t come when called until he’s marked whatever it is he’s locked on to. Other than that there’s no downsides I’ve noticed. Where as neutering my previous lab came with many more downsides. Weight gain, energy levels lower. He eventually succumbed to cancer. Not sure if the neutering was connected.

My right foot is on its way UPS since my left foot is what I kick with. Love the analogy.

Yes! I was pressured from when my male lab was young to do it and never heard a good scientific reason. I’m on top of him and its never been an issue, still has his jewels 3 years later. Only thing I see that may be related is excessive sniffing/marking when we go to the park. But no reason close to justifying me neutering him.

I lost my last balgiun she was spayed and died few days later I am not spayed the 2 I have now I listen to you alot I have had alot of dogs in my life but I learned more listening

Left foot… not even a question…. Great analogy.

I´ve had both intact males and females, and both neutered males and spayed females. All the surgeries were done when the dogs were mature animals, never puppies (there are proven development issues when puppies are neutered so I would never do it to a puppy). Never saw any changes to energy level, temperament or even sexual drive (my neutered male dog would still be affected when the intact female would go into heat). There are proven changes in their bodies as time progresses (loss of muscle mass, weight gain, changes in texture of their fur). I don´t understand why people say ear or tail cropping are animal cruelty, but neutering a dog is not. To me both are a mutilation...

Thank you for this. I've always had male dogs and none of them have been neutered. And they've been great dogs. No pregnancies. I appreciate all of your videos, and this is another one that is really well done!

I respectfully disagree, based on the monthly shipments of unwanted dogs from the southern states up here to our Wisconsin shelters. Seems like the culture down there is a bit different than here, in terms of letting dogs roam.

Stonnie, what about Spay? How to you feel about in tact females? Being around in tact males?

I’m going to say no. Some of the most unpredictable Dog’s I’ve been around were neutered males. When a dog don’t know where it fits with other dogs they can become reactive

As you said at the start Stonnie, I agree, it's 'nuanced'. I've rehomed unwanted rescue male dogs for 37 years in the U.K. They all needed re-homing 'cos no-one had neutered their dogs. Male dogs, just like humans, naturally, after 50 (hormones change!), may be a little calmer, a little less eager to fight when they have a few less testosterone hormones. For anyone who wants to care for a dog that they don't plan to breed, good exercise, good management and training and good contraception makes a good, responsible dog owner.

For our female dogs, we spay to avoid unwanted pregnancies and uterine health problems. We did let one of them go unspayed until she was 7, then we had to get expensive emergency treatment and surgery for her. For a male dog, we wouldn't have them neutered unless there was a health issue.

My Goldendoodle is not neutered. He’s two, healthy, happy and has a good recall. He doesn’t roam or start fights with dogs. He’s non-aggressive and just a happy-go-lucky kid. I see no reason why I should neuter him if I manage him well and he’s healthy

Best analogy ever! Thank you. 41 years living with dogs and now with #8 and #9. my girlies were perfect, intact and blessed with long healthy lifespan. And you one boy, my son‘s pug was also „uncut“.

"if you neuter a dog it won't roam" Also "Never met a husky" hahaha

Finally, someone with common sense on this subject!

Most boarding places won’t let you board an unaltered dog

Do you feel the same about female dogs

I have a 10 year old unaltered chocolate lab. I am glad I never neutered him. He is my first dog which I did not neuter. Previously always listened to the vet and neutered my dogs. I am glad I did not listen to my vet now that we know more about health drawbacks. Our old vet recommended early neuter around 6 months, so I quickly found a different vet.

If your male is wandering and/or fighting with other intact males try the entirely reversible ie non-permanent chemical 6 month castration injection (or 12 month version) . The injection castration takes 1 month to come into effect to see if it makes a difference. And repeat is entirely reversible, zero surgery.

I would be curious to know your views on spaying a female. My first dog was a border collie greyhound mix. I loved and adored her. She was 12 months when I got her from the shelter. Somehow she was a mess from them. No shots were done and she had worms, fleas,ticks and severe separation anxiety.She also wasn't spayed. We never got her spayed. I looked into best ways to train her and in less then a month separation anxiety wasn't an issue. She was super smart and trained herself in things I have never heard of a dog doing before. We had a vet fix her up to get rid of all of her problems. She became my kids guardian and my best friend. She was 17 when she passed away. She had breast cancer as well as a heart attack. I did learn the longer you wait to spay, the more expensive it can become. I also learned the pricing goes off of size and age of your dog. I kept her on the healthiest/best dog food I could and she loved life. I miss her every day but I wanted to continue to share this love for animals with other dogs. I adopted a malamute border collie mix. He is a big boy but they neutered him before I adopted him. He is 4 years old. I now have 3 cats as well as the dog. Oreo will forever be in my heart though and my kids since they grew up together. I often wondered if I had gotten her spayed, would she have lived longer or at least not suffered in the end.

There are places in the world where you are required by law to neuter dogs. There are also places where you are not allowed to neuter dogs unless certified due to medical reasons. There is extensive research available on neutering dogs with one of the most extensive from uk which concludes harm due to early neutering in medium to large dogs. Bone diseases and cancer rates multiply between 4 to 8 times for certain breeds if neutered before 1-2 years. If you must neuter due to whatever reasons wait atleast for 2 years.

Great video! Love the analogy and I agree with you 100%

It's the first thing everyone asks when they see your puppy. "Are you gonna have him fixed?" Hell no.

Friend of mine mine had a 15-year-old yellow labrador retriever. It was his hunting buddy. He still had his manhood. Didn’t have any cancer. He was just an old lab. Of course they will retain their testosterone. you bring up a great point Stonnie. Something to consider. And maybe even in this area we have been living in, it is ingrained in new fresh graduated vets. They’ve been told this is what you do. Just like our medical doctors this is what you do and everybody nods their head yes we will do that. let’s hope there are doctors and vets out there who question the motives and the actions and the reasons as to why or why not? Thank you, brother.

I'm a woman, and I'd surely give up my ovaries over my left foot! But I've already had my 4 children so I'm sure that figures into the equation! We got our first dog several years ago, and waited as long as we could to get him neutered. Our neighbors got a dog that drove our dog crazy (in heat, maybe?) and I really feared he might break the glass sliding door trying to get outside! I am glad that he was nearly 2 when we got it done, as that's supposed to help protect the joints from what I've read.

Shoot, I have really been enjoying your videos until this one. Too good to be true.

In my experience (5 years of fostering around 100 dogs) altering does almost nothing to fix any of the issues people say it does. Kinda sucks. Its all anecdotal... The reason everyone should always spay/nueter is simple. Just walk throught the pound and see all the dogs. Population control is the only reason. And if you deal with pounds often... you know its the only answer. Incompetence of "owners" is never ending. So... alter your pets. Im extremely competent. And thats why I also alter my pets. Because while 2 or 3 out of 100 animal owers are competent, we set the example for those who aren't. That is all. Carry on.

I would love to hear Stoney's opinion on Spaying. I have a giant schnauzer and we live in the country. She stays on our property (i have GPS collars so i know if she dares step out of bounds) unfortunately a lot of neighbors over 1 mile away have in tact males who roam the countryside. My girl just had her first heat and we were on red alert on leash outside time only and she couldn't understand why she didn't get to run her farm per usual. She takes her guard duties seriously but we don't want babies! Especially country mutt babies! A friend introduced me to the idea of keeping her whole just because of hormones even though we won't ever breed her. But the vets are very anti that idea, and the irresponsible male dog owners also concern me.

P.s. we had Bear Bear an unneutered golden lab that was as dumb as a snail, full of nothing but kindness and he lived to 15 and weighed 90 lbs. and we adored him! He was my inheritance! ❤

What about spaying females?

However, my left foot hasn’t caused as much trouble as the other aforementioned body part

I can say I fully regretted getting my dog neutered under pressure from the vet. Before he had it done he was so friendly and loved every dog he met. After he was like a different dog! Aggressive with other dogs and some children! I brought it up with my vet and they laughed it all off! Upon further research I found that this can happen to some dogs after neutering 😢 I was heartbroken for him.

I want my dog to maintain his hormone balance. A good trainer can cover most of this and help

Wonderfully explained!!

Our sweet Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is intact and we plan to keep him that way. He is 9 months old and already 28” at the shoulder and 120 pounds 😅 Stonnie, your video on Tucker the Swissy was a great informative video when we were learning more about the breed! Our boy Judge is just wonderful 🙌🏼

My old dog got cushings disease most likely from being neutered early (2 years old)