I go a long with what others are saying and the sooner that they can be removed the better. Most good breeders as Mite has stated would without question already have done that. To many hunting dogs get them torn or ripped off while hunting. This can ruin your hunting trip as well if the dog has it ripped off or torn. It is painfull for the dog and it will cause him to want to attend to his pain. Most are done within a few days of birth before their eyes open up. If they have not been done good they can check in case they need to be clipped again. I know here on the first outing for grouse and woodcock you would likely find at least one of them torn. Good Luck to you on your new pup.