There will always be very positive and very negative experiences on both sides of the debate. What you hear will depend on whom you ask. You just have to make up your mind and take your lumps if it doesn't come out right. The most pertinent post I remember is from the guy who blames the negligent owner on fat altered dogs. Without endorsing altering bird dogs, I agree with that poster. If you have a fat bird dog, you're feeding him too much or working him too little. Comment?