We're having our six month old Miniature Schnauzer spayed tomorrow morning. We've always had our other bitches spayed earlier because we had males in the house. This time we waited a little longer but just have noticed physical changes that indicate she will soon be coming into heat - with 3 intact males - a 120 lb Rottie, a bulldog and a Collie mix on the other side of the fence we decided not to wait any longer. All of the benefits mentioned by the other folks are so true - and we didn't get her to breed her - just to love her. She is purebred with AKC papers but that doesn't mean she should be bred. If my husband and I decide she needs a pal we'll find her one - right now she is happy with just us!!