Genetic dieases in OES?
Karen  |
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| Not many breeders test for everything they should in my opinion. I think any dog used for breeding should be tested for hips, elbows, eyes, ears, heart and thyroid. There is also a very inexpensive blood workup that can be done by Dr. Dodds that does a thorough panel to check not only if a thyroid condition exists, but also if the dog is genetically predisposed to it, as well as checking for anemia, and kidney and liver function.
I don't know why breeders don't do all these tests, but I plan to when the time comes. The cost is certainly worth ensuring you are not producing any health problems that can be prevented. |
| Hi Karen,
The Health study done by the Old English Sheepdog club of America identified the following health problems for dogs in the study, Hypothyroidism,arthritis,chronic ear infections,hip dysplasia, and fatty tumors in males. In females in the study, Hypothyroidism, cystitis, chronic ear infections,arthritis and failure to conceive. You can view the full study at www.oldenglishsheepdogclubofamerica.org Its under health-full report. You will want a vet of your own to do a prepurchase examination. I believe you had another post about selecting a breeder. We found the discussion on Sealords OES helpful on what questions to ask a breeder. Having just gone through the process, please PM if you have specific questions. Best of luck in your search for an Old English Sheepdog puppy !!!! |
| In addition to the ones already mentioned - deafness and retinal atrophy (which is probably what they are testing in the eye test).
Ask if any of their offspring have had any other genetic ailment (there are far too many to test for). They should be honest about what problems may have been detected and what they've done to ensure it doesn't repeat in another litter. Karen - I recommend getting references from people who know the breed and have been involved with OES for a while (not just word of mouth or from someone else who may have gotten a puppy from the breeder - more often than not - these genetic ailments appear once the dog gets older), visit the kennel, and meet the sire and dam (or at least the dam) and be sure you have access to the sire's information and can research them as well. Just my opinion. Kristen |
| Thanks guys! I always want to be aware of what issues there are with the breed, so that I go into an interview with the proper information. I did the same with Iris and Bell- looking at what common genetic ailments affect the breed, so I can know what to ask about. I appreciate the information and links!
Karen |
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