Doberman Health Testing
All dams and sires are DNA, XRay, and Holter tested before a breeding takes place to ensure they’re in top condition. Doberman health testing checks for genetic disorders and diseases many vets notice in the breed. And by doing DNA testing and other forms of testing before breeding our dams and sires, we reduce the chances of having pups that develop these Doberman pinscher health issues. This is vital because all the conditions lower a Doberman’s health and can negatively impact their quality of life, and dogs are additions to the family; you want a healthy furry companion. The following are explanations on the heath testing that is done.
Von Willebrand disease (VWD) is a genetic disorder caused by missing or defective von Willebrand factor (VWF), a clotting protein. VWF binds factor VIII, a key clotting protein, and platelets in blood vessel walls, which help form a platelet plug during the clotting process.
Dialted Cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a heart disease in which the heart becomes thinly walled, dilated, and ceases to contract properly. This causes a backflow in circulation due to valves weakening. The blood doesn’t enter the heart normally, which results in congestive heart failure. Doberman health testing allows breeders to catch this health issue early and determine which dogs they should and shouldn’t breed.
Alba Holter Monitor: To detect and manage Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) early, yearly 24-hour Holtering is crucial.
Degenerative myelopathy (DM), also known as chronic degenerative radiculomyelopathy (CDRM), is a disease affecting the spinal cord, resulting in slowly progressive hind limb weakness and paralysis. The symptoms result from degeneration of the white matter of the spinal cord. DM is similar to some of the forms of human amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) more commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease.
OFA Hips and Elbows: Veterinarians and responsible breeders of purebred dogs are well aware that hip dysplasia and other inherited diseases can be controlled by careful, selective breeding programs. This is done to ensure no dysplasia is found in the animal. Preventing Doberman Pinscher health issues is a major factor in responsible breeding and helps to ensure each pup born can live a long, happy life.