The results of the Kennel Club/ British Small Animal Veterinary Health Association Scientific Committee’s health survey for  ALL  breeds, is published on the Kennel Club web site – www.thekennelclub.org.uk

The top three causes of death listed are:

 Health issues most commonly affecting Dobermann are:

PHPV (Persistent hyperplastic primary vitreous)

There is a testing scheme and in the UK the result will be clear or affected.  We would recommend only breeding from a clear result and buying puppies from clear parents.

DNA testing for vWD (von Willebrands Disease)

There are three possible results – Clear, Carrier or Affected.

The Dobermann Owner and Breeder should view vWD as a significant health risk.

Clear – This indicates that the gene is not present in the dog.  When used for breeding, a Clear will not pass on the disease. 

Carrier – This indicates that one copy of the disease gene is present in the dog but that it will not exhibit disease symptoms.  Carriers will not have medical problems as a result.  Dogs with Carrier status will pass on the gene 50% of the time. 

Affected – This indicates that two copies of the disease gene is present in the dog.  Unfortunately, the disease will medically affect the dog.

 Ideal Mating:  Clear to Clear  or  Clear to Carrier

 The DNA testing kit consists of a cheek swab and is available from Dr. Jeff Sampson’s office at the Kennel Club – 0870 606 6750

This is the most common bleeding disorder in the world in all species. 

Hip Dysplasia Scheme

This means an x-ray and the scoring of the resulting plates to discover the status of the dogs hips.

DCM (Dilated CardioMyopathy)

There is no definitive test for DCM.  As I write there are geneticists all over the world looking for a genetic marker for DCM. 

Thyroid – over or under active.

The Vet will blood test for this.

 Rome wasn’t built in a day but we are in for the long haul to improve the health of our beloved breed, using all health tests available, breeding only from healthy animals and not just breeding for money.