X-ray Opinon - Page 4

Thank you Thunder, but upon a lot of research, I am not sure that is the best decision for the dog.  May I ask where you are going with that suggestion?  I have just read a lot about increase in cancer, etc with intact dogs.  Besides that, he will not be shown, and the breeder's contract specifically says neutering.  It's the only way I am able to keep him.  Thanks!

I'm glad to hear he's doing well and is a happy dog. Keep up the good work with him.

The risk of testicular cancer is less than 1% so reducing an already small risk by neutering does not seem like a huge benefit.  On the negative side, neutering increases the risk of osteosacroma which is more common than testicular cancer in large breed dogs, increases the risk of lymphosarcoma, increases the risk of hypothyroidism, increases the possibility of obesity and increases the risk of orthopaedic complications such as hip dysplasia, cranial cruciate ligament rupture, and cartilage degeneration.
Vasectomy does not really change anything other than the fact that the dog cannot reproduce.  I am just mentioning this to you as an option if the breeder is willing to consider it.  It is up to you to decide what's best for your pup.
Here are some pages you may want to check out:  ​
http://www.news.ucdavis.edu/search/news_detail.lasso?id=10498
http://24kgsd.com/blog/early-spay-neuter/
(this is a blog entry but gives all the references at the bottom of the page.  Those are peer reviewed scientific journal articles that you can also find oline or in article database such as Pubmed.org)

Btw glad that he is doing great and glad that he has a loving owner like you.
 

There is PLENTY out there if only someone wants to be aware regarding the very many dangers of neutering dogs. My contract stipulates the opposite; you neuter that dog, you lose a good portion of your health guarantee.  I want dogs in homes with people who look out for the best interests of that particular dog, not my kennel name, not their convenience, etc. This holds especially true for a dog who already has an ortho concern. Be responsible, don't breed him, but don't neuter him. Vasectomy is adequate. Breeder only said "neuter" because chances are they've never thought outside the box. What possible reason would they have for telling you a vasectomy isn't good enough? If someone approached me, as a breeder,  with that, I'd be thrilled I'd found that kind of home for my pup.

Thanks for the explanation.  Pros and cons to both, as with most things.  :)