Pups can be trained in the manner owners wish. Nevertheless, adults are often housebroken, done with teething and have good house manners. If you have a demanding schedule, an adult may fit into the household more quickly than an infant puppy. Males are just as affectionate as females, and bitches are just as playful as dogs. If neutered or spayed, as pets should be, neither shows the annoying hormonal surges of an intact dog.
All responsible breeders require their pets to be spayed or neutered.
We feel no one should breed Beardies unless they are serious students of the breed, willing to do genetic testing, and to stand behind their guarantees. They should be willing to prove the quality of the dog in the show ring under expert evaluation because only the very best should be bred. Research has shown that an altered animal is also healthier, eliminating reproductive infections and tumors, particularly in old age. Juvenile alteration can be performed as young as eight weeks of age. Many veterinarians, however, perform the surgery when the dog is between six and nine months of age.