Re: [PyrNet-L] Re: Breedeing question

[Kshoffman@aol.com]

In a message dated 03/11/2000 3:41:27 AM Eastern Standard Time, 
sandybear@intercity.dk writes:

<< I don't know of course which negatives Terry are thinking of, by for 
myself I consider the profuse, soft, wooly spay coat a huge disadvantage, 
that is never mentioned when spaying/neutering is discussed on the list. One 
of the nice thing about the pyr is the easy-to-maintain coat, and most 
spay/neuters loose that quality.>>

This is discussed quite often on the Belgian lists.  I do believe it to be 
true myself, so it's not only Pyrs who get these soft downy coats as a result 
of s/n.  Not saying it is necessarily a valid reason to forego s/n.

<>

Agreed.

Additionally, in breeds that are very competitive and successful at 
protection sports, i.e. Schutzhund, French Ring Sport, IPO, et al. (and even 
amongst some top obedience, agility, and tracking competitors as well) 
spay/neuter is firmly believed to negatively impact on the dog's drive and 
working ability, and hence this type of surgical sterilization is rarely done 
in some such circles. However, such owners/trainers will often opt for 
vasectomies for males and tubal ligations for females.

Kelley