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Dysplasia and Dobermans

© Deborah J. Myers

Dobermans love to run. And run. And run. But imagine the heartache when his run slows and his gait is stooped. He sits down slowly, perhaps with a whimper. His movements become strained and stiff.

Dobermans are among the large dog breeds susceptible to Hip or Elbow Dysplasia. These conditions are caused by improper development of the bones near either the elbow (the front leg joint) or the hip (the rear leg joint). The conditions are commonly referred to as Hip Dysplasia.

With Hip Dysplasia, the ball-and-socket connection of the joint does not fit properly. The femur’s rounded head will not align with the socket.

As you can imagine, this can become very painful, especially as the dog ages and the condition is exacerbated by the animal’s determination to use the affected joint.

Dysplasia limits the joint’s range of motion, which can lead to difficulty in walking, rising, and lying down. As pain eventually causes the dog to become less and less active, he is susceptible to a host of other health problems caused by obesity.

Not all cases of hip Dysplasia are debilitating. If the condition is identified early, good food and exercise can help the dog remain relatively pain-free.

For more severe cases of Dysplasia, surgery can correct the abnormality. Some dogs must be put down.

Some people believe that they can cause their dog to “catch” Dysplasia by too much exercise; however, most veterinarians agree that these conditions are genetic, and that no outside forces cause them to happen.

Initially, dogs afflicted with Dysplasia show no noticeable symptoms; however, simply examining a puppy with the naked eye cannot rule out the potential to develop Dysplasia later in life.

The only real way to prevent Dysplasia is to buy a puppy whose parents have been certified as not having Dysplasia. Any legitimate breeder will be able to provide you with written proof of certification. If everyone demanded certified puppies, if would force breeders to rise to that standard and breed for quality.

If your Doberman came from a shelter or rescue, your veterinarian can examine the dog and/or x-ray him. This is an important part of his health, and it’s in his best interest to be tested early.

Save yourself the heartache of seeing your best friend immobile and in pain. Support breeders who will not breed dogs with Dysplasia. Perhaps someday, the condition will be phased out.

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