This procedure is usally done in the early days of the puppy's life, Kayann. I think it would be terribly painful to do it later. I have one with, and one without. Lilly's breeder was a little more professional and had it done when the puppies were a couple of days old, I think. Honey still has hers and we have had no problems. I think it is especially important when you have a dog that is going through lots of brush (a hunting dog perhaps) or a search and rescue dog that might be digging through debris. Otherwise, I think they're fine to have them.

My two cents worth!

Logan