Tèarmannair German Shepherds undergo all core health tests plus additional tests as they become available. Our dogs undergo physical health testing (requiring physical exam and x-ray) and genetic health testing (requiring DNA analysis via cheek swabs/blood test) to enable us plan and make informed decisions with respects to out breeding program and animal welfare.
Hip and elbow dysplasia are common conditions seen is some larger breeds such as German Shepherds. These conditions are in part heritable conditions, and therefore in January 2000 the Canine Hip and Elbow Dysplasia Scheme (CHEDS) was developed and implemented.
This scoring test can help predict whether a young dog is likely to suffer from hip or elbow dysplasia, both debilitating conditions where the respective joints become prematurely arthritic and very painful. In Australia, the method of scoring most extensively used is based on British Veterinary Association/ Kennel Club scheme and known as the Australian National Kennel Council (ANKC) – Canine Hip and Elbow Dysplasia Scheme (CHEDS). The scheme evaluates nine traits for each hip individually assessed against an ordinal categorical scale from a x-ray taken with the hips in extension.
Affected dogs usually present clinical signs of disease in adulthood (at least 8 years of age) with gradual muscle wasting and loss of coordination typically beginning in the hind limbs. Disease progression continues until the dog is unable to walk. In late stages of the disease, dogs may become incontinent, and the forelimbs may be affected. Affected dogs may fully lose the ability to walk 6 months to 2 years after the onset of signs.
Mode of Inheritance: autosomal recessive, incomplete penetrance
Canine Leukocyte Adhesion Deficiency (CLAD), is a genetic blood disorder causing abnormal blood clotting and immune system functions and may present with lameness, recurrent skin infections, bone infections, and gingivitis. Although some dogs can live for years with this condition, most affected dogs die early. … more
Mode of Inheritance: autosomal recessive
Factor VIII Deficiency is a genetic form of haemophilia has a variable presentation of the disease, with mild to moderate bleeding being observed. Additionally, affected dogs may bruise easily or have extended periods of bleeding following trauma. Frequent nosebleeds and stiffness may also indicate F8 deficiency. While bleeding is occasionally severe enough to result in death, most affected dogs have a normal lifespan. … more
Mode of Inheritance: X-linked recessive
Hyperuricosuria (HUU) Hyperuricosuria is characterized by elevated levels of uric acid in the urine and can lead to the formation of bladder/kidney stones. … more
Mode of Inheritance: autosomal recessive
Ichthyosis is a skin condition that results in a mild to moderate and in some cases severe scaling of the skin, usually excluding the head, extremities, paw pads, and nose. Scales become pigmented, progressing to grey or black, and range in size from small to large. These scales may give the dog’s hair and skin a “dirty” look as the scales progress to a darker colour. … more
Mode of Inheritance: autosomal recessive
The MDR-1 gene (Multi-drug Resistance Gene 1) is responsible for producing proteins that protect the brain from harmful chemicals. Some breeds have a mutation in this gene resulting in them being dangerously sensitive to certain chemicals and drugs. It is recommended to test these breeding dogs for the MDR-1 mutation, so they do not pass on the sensitivity to their puppies. … more
Mode of Inheritance: autosomal incomplete dominant
Malignant Hyperthermia (MH) is a rare genetic condition that causes adverse reactions to anaesthetic drugs. It results in the body rapidly overheating and is sometimes fatal. There is now a DNA test available to identify if a breeding dog is carrying this condition. … more
Mode of Inheritance: autosomal dominant
Mucopolysaccharidosis is a genetic lysosomal storage disease that can cause various problems including stunted growth and bone deformities. There are a few different variants of this disease that have been identified in different breeds. For many breeds there are DNA tests available to identify if a breeding dog is carrying the condition. … more
Mode of Inheritance: autosomal recessive
Renal cystadenocarcinoma and nodular dermatofibrosis (RCND), is a genetic condition which causes masses in the kidneys and skin that become cancerous. Affected dogs might develop kidney disease or cancer. There is a DNA test available to identity whether a breeding dog is carrying the gene causing this condition. … more
Mode of Inheritance: autosomal dominant
Scott Syndrome is a rare inherited genetic blood clotting disorder that can be found in Shepherd breeds. Affected dogs are born with platelet defects resulting in inadequate blood clotting at sites of tissue damage. … more
Mode of Inheritance: autosomal recessive
