Comments on: at what age do doberman dogs develop health problems?

By: Julie D.

Julie D. — Sun, 28 Feb 2010 02:10:59 +0000

A Dobe doesn’t develop VWD….they are born with it, as it is hereditary. You can have a Dobe DNA tested by a company called Vet Gen, when they are still tiny puppies still in the whelping box. The results will come back as either Clear, Carrier, or Affected. Also, HD is hereditary, as well as Thyroid problems and DCM. They can develop Bloat or CVI at any age, but CVI is usually after the age of 2. It is common for the blues and fawns to develop dilute alopecia/major coat problems causing hair loss. Most books will tell you that the average lifespan of a Dobe is 10-12 years, but in all reality, statistics show that the average Dobe’s lifespan is only 6 1/2 years, mostly due to poor breeding and lack of genetic testing of breeding dogs. The gene for Cardio problems in the breed has not been found yet, so, it is said that there is really no bloodline that doesn’t carry it. Cardio and Cancer are the Dobes 2 biggest killers. Although Echocardiograms and Holter Monitor testing can be done, the testings are only good for the day/days being tested, not for the entire life of the dog.
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Use to breed and show Dobes

By: Joh

Joh — Sun, 28 Feb 2010 01:52:59 +0000

If you buy a pup from a breeder that has genetic testing done on their breeding stock then hopefully none of these things will occur. The best thing you can do for any dog is to feed a species appropriate diet from puppy hood. This will prevent many health problems that are common today.
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By: Rotten Rotts

Rotten Rotts — Sun, 28 Feb 2010 01:47:59 +0000

That depends on many factors, did the dog come from a reputable breeder, are you feeding high quality food and getting regular vet care? There is no magical age that a dog would start getting sick
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