The most serious breed-related health problem in the Doberman is cardiomyopathy, which causes an enlarged heart. Doberman Pinschers are unique creatures and, although they are generally healthy companions, there are some illnesses specific to the breed that you should be aware of. I know I had one lived 14 years. Do they matter? We're not talking the same sensation you get after a night of soft pretzels and diet Coke in front of a full season of the "Arrested Development" remix. If your dog is diagnosed with hypothyroidism, he'll probably receive a prescription for a synthetic thyroid hormone replacement along with adjustments to his diet to help him get the best nutrition possible to counteract the effects of a shoddy thyroid. 10 years with a doberman is worth more to me than 15 years with any other breed. There is no test for the albino gene, but good breeders do everything they can to avoid producing albino Dobermans. Doberman vs German Shepherd Health. Hypothyroidism is one of the most common conditions to affect the Doberman Pinscher, and symptoms of the condition’s onset usually present themselves after the age of four. Reluctance to engage in running, jumping or any climbing activity. Be aware that white or cream Dobermans are a genetic mutation that is associated with severe health problems; they are not the prized and expensive rarity some people will try to market them as. Wherever you acquire your Doberman, make sure you have a good contract with the seller, shelter or rescue group that spells out responsibilities on both sides. Doberman pinschers, although considered some of the toughest of all breeds of dogs, are not exempt from health problems. Doberman Pinscher Health Problems | Feeding. Hypothyroidism is one of the most common conditions to affect the Doberman Pinscher, and symptoms of the condition’s onset usually present themselves after the age of four. We are Committed to Good Dobermann Health There are several illnesses which are prevalent within the Dobermann breed which may affect a dog during it’s lifetime (average 10 years). Whether you just brought home a young Doberman Pinscher puppy or have a full-grown adult, each segment in your Doberman Pinscher's life brings about new health risks. Doberman DCM is a genetic disease of a heart muscle which becomes progressively weak and eventually leads to heart failure. As with people there are no guarantees of whether your dog will or won’t contract one of these or infact, a different ailment. Dobermans are one of the most intelligent canine breeds, and are capable of excelling at many “jobs”. The good news here is that von Willebrand disease is rarely a fatal condition if managed correctly. A recent investigation was done by the U.S. Food and Drug administration into certain brands of dog foods and how they are linked to the development of Dilated Cardiomyopathy in dogs. The gait remains normal while walking. Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM), which is a fancy medical way of saying an "enlarged heart," is a condition during which the heart muscle becomes progressively thicker and weaker (resulting in heart and respiratory failure). The most common manifestations are lack of energy and recurrent infections. Petplan Pet Insurance says, of the insured Doberman Pinschers it has, dilated cardiomyopathy, gastroenteritis and skin infections are common illnesses. They are also prone to color … Symptoms of this condition aren't always obvious, but here's what to look out for in your pup: Your vet might perform an echocardiogram to get clues into whether or not your dog has DCM, but the best way for them to reach a diagnosis is through an ultrasound of the heart. A little blood test will let you and your vet know if your dog is affected by or is a carrier of the disease. Hip dysplasia has many fairly obvious symptoms including: If hip dysplasia is suspected, your veterinarian may order blood work and urinalysis and take an x-ray of your dog's hips and lower spine. Doberman health issues. Hypothyroidism. Blue Dobermans are prone to relatively minor additional health issues beyond their more traditionally colored counterparts. Kate is a former veterinarian's assistant of five years. Color dilute alopecia refers to the patchy poor haircoat that develops usually in the blues and fawns. Dobermans are known to have a few serious genetic health issues. The Doberman’s life expectancy is generally around ten to eleven years. Doberman Health. The update on this investigation from the FDA can be found here: Update on Investigation into Dilated Cardiomyopathy. This syndrome occurs most often in dogs older than three. ", A friend, if you're feeling nervous about the visit or diagnosis, "What changes should I look out for and when should I bring him back? 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