Appleridge Obedience Family German Shepherds 

Progress in hip joint phenotype of dogs in the United States between the 1970's and early 1990's has been shown through results of a retrospective study using the OFA data base. This improvement was evident as an increase in the percentage of dogs classified as having excellent hip joint phenotype and a decrease in the percentage of dogs classified as having hip dysplasia (HD). The increase in percentage of dogs classified as having excellent hip joint phenotype was greater for German Shepherd dogs, Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, and Rottweilers than for all dog breeds combined. In addition, the submission screening rate for these four breeds was higher than the screening rate for all dogs. Within these four breeds, the improvement was greatest for Rottweilers, which also had the highest screening rate.

Overall, low screening rates for breeds found in this study offer some insight into the problems involved with reducing the incidence of HD. The typical dog breeder is involved in breeding dogs for about five years. Thus, informed, experienced breeders are continually replaced with uninformed, inexperienced breeders who may not be as aware of the problems associated with HD or of the importance of participating in a screening program. In addition, many breeders choose which dogs they breed on the basis of the hip phenotype of individual dogs without knowledge of the phenotype of related dogs or previous offspring. It can be very difficult to get hip information on siblings and previous offspring due to the overall low number of dogs radiographed in a given litter (most dogs in a litter end up in pet homes). This is the slowest method of reducing the incidence of an undesirable trait or increasing the incidence of a desirable trait. The use of preliminary radiographs as early as 4 months of age can be used by breeders to add valuable information on the hip status of dogs they choose to use in a breeding program.

Hip dysplasia appears to be perpetuated by breeder imposed breeding practices, but when breeders and their breed clubs recognize HD as a problem and establish reduction of HD as a priority, improvement of the hip status can be accomplished without jeopardizing other desirable traits. Prospective buyers should check pedigrees and/or verify health issues with the breeder. If suitable documentation is not available, assume the worst until proven otherwise.

Do not ignore the dog with a fair hip evaluation. The dog is still within normal limits. For example; a dog with fair hips but with a strong hip background and over 75% of its brothers and sisters being normal is a good breeding prospect. A dog with excellent hips, but with a weak family background and less than 75% of its brothers and sisters being normal is a poor breeding prospect.

• Breed normals to normals
• Breed normals with normal ancestry
• Breed normals from litters (brothers/sisters) with a low incidence of HD
• Select a sire that produces a low incidence of HD
• Replace dogs with dogs that are better than the breed average

Breeding risks for degenerative myelopathy can be calculated using the Punnett Square:

• If both parents are clear (N/N) then all of the puppies will be clear.
• If one parent is a carrier (N/A) and one is clear (N/N) each puppy has a 50% chance of being clear and a 50% chance of being a carrier.
• If both parents are carriers (N/A) each puppy has a 25% chance of being clear (N/N), 50% chance of being a carrier (N/A), and 25% chance of being affected and carrier (A/A)
• If one parent is clear (N/N) and one parent is affected (A/A) then all puppies will be carriers (N/A)
• If one parent is a carrier (N/A) and one is at risk (A/A) each puppy has a 50% chance of being a carrier(N/A) and 50% chance of being affected and carrier (A/A)
• If both parents are at risk (A/A) then all puppies will be affected and carrier (A/A)

AKC Gazette breed column: Chihuahuas— Being a good breeder entails gathering and putting together many pieces of the puzzle, including pedigree knowledge and understanding of genetics, anatomy, and health testing. 

We all start at the same place, but it doesn’t take long before we think we know everything. Eventually we admit to ourselves this is probably not the case, and we begin again. It is at this point that we really start learning, and hopefully we continue learning for the rest of our lives. 

People tend to learn only their immediate interest. As breeders, we need to broaden our horizons beyond our immediate boundaries. A championship title does not guarantee perfection. Knowing and understanding your breed standard is all important. With that, you also need to know canine anatomy, animal husbandry, and the understanding of genetics and DNA testing. Once all these puzzle pieces are gathered, we put them together to begin a breeding program. 

It is always good to make it a habit to look at virtues first, and faults last. If you are a “fault-finder,” the faults will override the total perspective and leave a lingering impression.  

Always weigh the faults against the virtues. Do the qualities outweigh the faults? Because of the complexities of genetics and the many variables of inherited characteristics, a breeder must be willing to gamble with nature, taking the worst along with the best. With conviction and courage, triumph will eventually emerge, and a great dog will be born. 

A breeder must realize that every puppy, in reality, is two different beings and therefore cannot be bred with any degree of certainty. Phenotype is what the animal looks like on the outside. Certain genes have come together to create his physical appearance. What a dog looks like on the inside is genotype, a blueprint of inherited traits from his ancestors.  

If you like jigsaw puzzles, you will enjoy putting your genetic knowledge to work—but remember, 75 percent is luck, and 25 percent is skill. 

Now that we know everything is inherited, even the dog’s show spirit or ability to perform tricks, we can make better choices. Many faults can be eliminated from a bloodline, and superior qualities introduced, through selection and understanding of the laws of heredity. Therefore, a dog’s true qualities are not necessarily evidenced in his physical appearance but are also concealed in his genetic framework. 

As breeders, we all understand that there is no perfect dog. Don’t be in a hurry for that great one. It is far better for a breeder to move slowly toward an eventual goal by tackling one problem at a time, collecting virtues into the genotype and discarding faults through strict selection. The “overall” dog must be kept in mind. The best package has the best chance in the show ring. Not only does it require a quality dog but also a dog who is properly raised, conditioned, trained, groomed, and handled. This is hard work, and there are no shortcuts. 

The all-important pedigree should never be ignored. What a dog transmits to his progeny depends on the genetics and actually has little to do with the number of champions we see in the pedigree. The idea that an inferior dog will produce something greater than himself because he has an impressive pedigree is a fallacy. Unless he carries in his genetic makeup a combination for a desired quality, he cannot pass it to his progeny.  

Probably one rule stands out above any other, and that is “breed only the best to the best, and don’t be satisfied with anything less.”  

Happy breeding!  —V.H. (December 2014), Chihuahua Club of America 

Abnormalities of the body that are present at the time of birth are called congenital defects. Such anomalies may involve any organ system or any part of the body.

Some may be minor and resolve with growth, while others may prevent normal development and function or even cause premature death.

Though certain defects may be quite obvious at birth, many may remain hidden for months, years, and some even lifelong.

Congenital defects can occur for no known reason, can be inherited, can be caused by environmental factors, or can be a combination of any of these.

Defects can occur anytime in the developmental stages of the embryo or fetus. The occurrence or severity of the defect can depend on the stage of development when an insult occurs.  The earlier in the pregnancy an insult occurs, the more risk there is to the embryo or fetus.

Anomalies in the earliest stages of the embryo generally lead to embryonal/fetal death. During the first month of a dog or cat pregnancy, the fetus develops the majority of its organ systems. Abnormalities occurring within this period can cause serious functional defects.

The latter portion of the pregnancy focuses on growth and maturation of the already existing fetal body and its organs. Defects during this phase may be less severe. However, a few systems still undergo significant development during the second half of pregnancy, including the oral palate, cerebellum (the portion of the brain coordinating movement), urinary and genital systems. Abnormalities here can still produce serious complications.

The cause of many congenital defects is unknown. Environmental circumstances during pregnancy may lead to a predisposition to certain defects.  Abnormalities to the maternal metabolism, trauma, or temperature extremes may cause problems in fetal development.  Examples of general congenital defects include cleft palates, polydactylism (extra toes), pectus excavatum (intrusion of the breastbone into the thoracic cavity), dwarfism, extra vertebrae, and hydrocephalus.

Exposure to specific infections, chemicals or drugs (known as teratogens) during pregnancy will also increase risks for specific birth defects. A drug called Griseofulvin, often used to treat ringworm, is one example of a medication with known teratogenic effects causing cleft palate in the fetus. Similarly, viral panleukopenia infection of the pregnant cat may result in cerebellar hypoplasia of the kittens, potentially producing brain damage with severe incoordination.

Some congenital defects are specific to certain breeds and are a result of exaggerated features that characterize the breed. Brachycephalic syndrome is most commonly seen in bulldogs, or other short-nosed breeds of dogs, and results in abnormal development of different parts of their airway.  Animals with these defects can have breathing difficulties leading to airway obstruction.  Another example is entropion, which is rolling-in of the eyelids, commonly seen in the Shar Pei.

Many congenital abnormalities are believed to be inherited, although the exact mode of inheritance is often unknown.  Examples include portosystemic shunts in Yorkshire terriers, dilated cardiomyopathy in Dobermans, and kidney disease in Wheaten terriers.   Ragdoll cats have been known to have an increased tendency toward eyelid defects (colobomas) at birth.

Some congenital defects have been proven to be hereditary in certain breeds, being passed on through parental genes. The breed name is often included in the disease description.  Examples include Collie eye anomaly, Scotty cramp, and copper toxicosis in Bedlington terriers.

Most external anatomical abnormalities are recognizable at birth or shortly after. Cleft palates, umbilical hernias, or limb deformities may be readily visible. Subtle abnormalities, such as heart murmurs caused by improperly developed heart valves, may require veterinary assessment for diagnosis.

Some defects, such as cryptorchidism (the failure of both testicles to descend into the scrotum) or dental issues, may take several weeks to months to become evident. A number of congenital defects, however, may not be detected until the animal gets much older. In such cases, it may be only abnormalities in routine screening tests that raise early concerns. 

Other times, it is not until suspicious medical issues develop that a diagnostic search is triggered. A “healthy” maturing puppy or kitten, for example, may have a congenital portosystemic shunt in the liver. It would not be until mental confusion, disorientation or seizures occur, or, until the pre-spay/neuter blood tests reveal abnormalities, that your veterinarian would run relevant additional testing.

As the cause of many congenital defects is unknown, preventing them can be difficult.  Having a thorough physical examination of your pet by your veterinarian can help detect potential abnormalities early in life.  If the abnormality can be modified or fixed, the earlier the problem is detected the better outcome for your pet.

Responsible breeders generally seek regular veterinary care and have a close relationship with their veterinarian.  Keeping the breeding animals up-to-date on vaccines, free from intestinal parasites, and on a balanced diet are all important factors in providing optimal health for the parent and offspring. If medications are necessary while the female dog is pregnant or lactating, the veterinarian may choose to alter the course of treatment for increased safety of the litter, or the veterinarian may advise not to treat at all. Even some vaccines can be detrimental to the fetus and may not be given. Often the veterinarian will recommend appropriate screening tests and/or prophylactic treatments.

Reputable breeders strive to eliminate carriers of specific congenital defects from their lineage. Registries have been established to list breeding animals screened as free from specific defects. The advent of DNA testing has also allowed registration of animals as being carrier-free of a particular gene.

If you elect to adopt a specific breed, research the breed. Be aware of the known genetic defects. Research the breeder. Find out the lineage of the litter’s parents, preferably at least two to three generations back. Verify the breeder’s registration for absence of congenital defects.

Before you sign any sales contract, understand your options if a congenital defect (or any other health issue) is found. Observe the newborn for any unusual symptoms and report them to your veterinarian. Once you have chosen your puppy or kitten, whether it is purebred or a mix-breed, have your veterinarian perform a thorough physical examination immediately. Some breeders will allow you to have your veterinarian examine the animal prior to purchase.

Unless there is suspicion of a specific problem, generally puppies and kittens are not routinely tested for every known infection or systemic abnormality. Hence, some medical defects, though present at birth, may not be diagnosed until later in life. Follow your veterinarian’s recommendations for screening tests – especially prior to any anesthesia.

Many animals with congenital defects can still maintain a high quality of life. Treatment options for abnormalities vary as for any health issue. Whether or not a cure can be achieved through medications or surgery, your veterinarian will guide you with options that will optimize the quality of life for your companion.

Dr. Ingrid Pyka is the medical director at Harrison Memorial Animal Hospital in Denver, Colo., a non-profit veterinary hospital for qualified low income pet owners. As a veterinarian, Dr. Pyka emphasizes educating her clients to give them the tools to best care for their furry companions. She strongly feels that combining the highest quality medicine with complete client understanding allows patients and their owners to receive the best and most appropriate veterinary care.

Abnormalities of the body that are present at the time of birth are called congenital defects. Such anomalies may involve any organ system or any part of the body.

Some may be minor and resolve with growth, while others may prevent normal development and function or even cause premature death.

Though certain defects may be quite obvious at birth, many may remain hidden for months, years, and some even lifelong.

Congenital defects can occur for no known reason, can be inherited, can be caused by environmental factors, or can be a combination of any of these.

Defects can occur anytime in the developmental stages of the embryo or fetus. The occurrence or severity of the defect can depend on the stage of development when an insult occurs.  The earlier in the pregnancy an insult occurs, the more risk there is to the embryo or fetus.

Anomalies in the earliest stages of the embryo generally lead to embryonal/fetal death. During the first month of a dog or cat pregnancy, the fetus develops the majority of its organ systems. Abnormalities occurring within this period can cause serious functional defects.

The latter portion of the pregnancy focuses on growth and maturation of the already existing fetal body and its organs. Defects during this phase may be less severe. However, a few systems still undergo significant development during the second half of pregnancy, including the oral palate, cerebellum (the portion of the brain coordinating movement), urinary and genital systems. Abnormalities here can still produce serious complications.

The cause of many congenital defects is unknown. Environmental circumstances during pregnancy may lead to a predisposition to certain defects.  Abnormalities to the maternal metabolism, trauma, or temperature extremes may cause problems in fetal development.  Examples of general congenital defects include cleft palates, polydactylism (extra toes), pectus excavatum (intrusion of the breastbone into the thoracic cavity), dwarfism, extra vertebrae, and hydrocephalus.

Exposure to specific infections, chemicals or drugs (known as teratogens) during pregnancy will also increase risks for specific birth defects. A drug called Griseofulvin, often used to treat ringworm, is one example of a medication with known teratogenic effects causing cleft palate in the fetus. Similarly, viral panleukopenia infection of the pregnant cat may result in cerebellar hypoplasia of the kittens, potentially producing brain damage with severe incoordination.

Some congenital defects are specific to certain breeds and are a result of exaggerated features that characterize the breed. Brachycephalic syndrome is most commonly seen in bulldogs, or other short-nosed breeds of dogs, and results in abnormal development of different parts of their airway.  Animals with these defects can have breathing difficulties leading to airway obstruction.  Another example is entropion, which is rolling-in of the eyelids, commonly seen in the Shar Pei.

Many congenital abnormalities are believed to be inherited, although the exact mode of inheritance is often unknown.  Examples include portosystemic shunts in Yorkshire terriers, dilated cardiomyopathy in Dobermans, and kidney disease in Wheaten terriers.   Ragdoll cats have been known to have an increased tendency toward eyelid defects (colobomas) at birth.

Some congenital defects have been proven to be hereditary in certain breeds, being passed on through parental genes. The breed name is often included in the disease description.  Examples include Collie eye anomaly, Scotty cramp, and copper toxicosis in Bedlington terriers.

Most external anatomical abnormalities are recognizable at birth or shortly after. Cleft palates, umbilical hernias, or limb deformities may be readily visible. Subtle abnormalities, such as heart murmurs caused by improperly developed heart valves, may require veterinary assessment for diagnosis.

Some defects, such as cryptorchidism (the failure of both testicles to descend into the scrotum) or dental issues, may take several weeks to months to become evident. A number of congenital defects, however, may not be detected until the animal gets much older. In such cases, it may be only abnormalities in routine screening tests that raise early concerns. 

Other times, it is not until suspicious medical issues develop that a diagnostic search is triggered. A “healthy” maturing puppy or kitten, for example, may have a congenital portosystemic shunt in the liver. It would not be until mental confusion, disorientation or seizures occur, or, until the pre-spay/neuter blood tests reveal abnormalities, that your veterinarian would run relevant additional testing.

As the cause of many congenital defects is unknown, preventing them can be difficult.  Having a thorough physical examination of your pet by your veterinarian can help detect potential abnormalities early in life.  If the abnormality can be modified or fixed, the earlier the problem is detected the better outcome for your pet.

Responsible breeders generally seek regular veterinary care and have a close relationship with their veterinarian.  Keeping the breeding animals up-to-date on vaccines, free from intestinal parasites, and on a balanced diet are all important factors in providing optimal health for the parent and offspring. If medications are necessary while the female dog is pregnant or lactating, the veterinarian may choose to alter the course of treatment for increased safety of the litter, or the veterinarian may advise not to treat at all. Even some vaccines can be detrimental to the fetus and may not be given. Often the veterinarian will recommend appropriate screening tests and/or prophylactic treatments.

Reputable breeders strive to eliminate carriers of specific congenital defects from their lineage. Registries have been established to list breeding animals screened as free from specific defects. The advent of DNA testing has also allowed registration of animals as being carrier-free of a particular gene.

If you elect to adopt a specific breed, research the breed. Be aware of the known genetic defects. Research the breeder. Find out the lineage of the litter’s parents, preferably at least two to three generations back. Verify the breeder’s registration for absence of congenital defects.

Before you sign any sales contract, understand your options if a congenital defect (or any other health issue) is found. Observe the newborn for any unusual symptoms and report them to your veterinarian. Once you have chosen your puppy or kitten, whether it is purebred or a mix-breed, have your veterinarian perform a thorough physical examination immediately. Some breeders will allow you to have your veterinarian examine the animal prior to purchase.

Unless there is suspicion of a specific problem, generally puppies and kittens are not routinely tested for every known infection or systemic abnormality. Hence, some medical defects, though present at birth, may not be diagnosed until later in life. Follow your veterinarian’s recommendations for screening tests – especially prior to any anesthesia.

Many animals with congenital defects can still maintain a high quality of life. Treatment options for abnormalities vary as for any health issue. Whether or not a cure can be achieved through medications or surgery, your veterinarian will guide you with options that will optimize the quality of life for your companion.

Dr. Ingrid Pyka is the medical director at Harrison Memorial Animal Hospital in Denver, Colo., a non-profit veterinary hospital for qualified low income pet owners. As a veterinarian, Dr. Pyka emphasizes educating her clients to give them the tools to best care for their furry companions. She strongly feels that combining the highest quality medicine with complete client understanding allows patients and their owners to receive the best and most appropriate veterinary care.