Leslie H wrote:I'm all for altered dogs competing alongside intact dogs. I'm a big believer at looking at how dogs reproduce, if I'm interested in a bloodline. That includes looking at as many relatives as possible. Therese, you know 1 reason I like Patcheeno is his brother, and vice versa. Many responsible breeders will sell show quality pups into pet homes, where they are s/n. There'd be many worthy of putting into the conf ring.
Also, those of us who compete w/females know what a PITA heat cycles are. In ADBA, you cannot compete in WP or conf w/ a s/n dog, and you can't compete in anything w/a bitch in heat. I'd be fine spaying Soleil right now, as I won't be breeding her. Instead, since I'd like to try (desperately) for her Grand in UKC, and anything in ADBA, she'll probably be intact for years. I think only permitting intact dogs punishes people for being responsible.
I see your point.
LOL Having intact dogs more so females is a huge PITA
Good arguments for both sides.