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Dog Breeding: Getting Rid Of Inherited Medical Conditions

Unfortunately, to this date in2021 and with all the scientific power the world has, nobody has exact statistics and analytics about each dog breed and its number of specimens suffering from each common disease amongst the canine species.

Why Isn’t There a Central Dog Disease Database?

This is mainly because there is no organism or institution centralising all the information yielded by various studies. Instead, each remains to their own and simply publish a report rather than channeling all results to a central entity (Kennel Club or University.)

To find such information, you will need to use several websites that may help you know which medical conditions, inherited or not, should be closely monitored and regularly checked for your particular breed.

This is particularly important for dog breeders who need to make sure their breeding stock is cleared of all known medical conditions before opting them in to their dog breeding programme.

How Are Medical Conditions Inherited

The basic laws of inheritance were formulated by the Austrian monk Gregor Mender in the 1860s. Although Mendel performed his experimentations using garden peas, his discoveries essentially apply to all complex living forms, including human beings and our beloved dogs.

The laws explain how individuals of a certain species may function has carrier of a trait (disease); meaning, they do not display the trait (disease) themselves but can pass it on to their offspring. And obviously, a litter counting up to 10 whelps or so, the chances to have an affected puppy is almost certain.

How To Remove Genetic Conditions In Dog Breeding?

Because we understand the genetic mechanisms behind inherited conditions, the solution is fairly simple but can be a little costly. The only way to get rid of these genetic diseases is to perform DNA tests to clear the future parents of all known illnesses.

The CAMBRIDGE UNIVERSITY’S INHERITED DISEASES IN DOGS DATABASE is an updated guide about diseases and medical conditions of pure bred dogs which are likely to be transmitted wholly or partly through genetics.

What If My Dogs Are Affected By a Genetic Condition?

This is a red light: you should not breed these dogs. You may have invested a lot of money when buying this dog but you can’t put generations of puppies at risk just for your own profit-driven dog breeding objectives.

As disappointing as it can be, be careful not to breed these particular dogs, on no account. The explanation is straightforward, the dog will 100% of the time transmit the disorder (genes) to the subsequent litter, therefore, broaden the hereditary affliction to the filiation. This is certainly what ethical breeders choose to stay away from for the breed’s benefit.

Simply because a dog ought not to be bred should not imply it is best to savagely get rid of the pet. Make sure you don’t. Don’t be yet another one example of these irresponsible dog breeders. It is still a forever family pet in need of love and care on each and every single day of its life.

Possibly locate a suitable family, or take part doing modest dog shows and contests to grow your credibility thanks to this dog, etc.

Dog breeding has to remain responsible and consistent over few generations in order to achieve positive results. So far, awareness has clearly increased thanks to many Kennel Clubs and Animal Rights associations, yet, too many dog breeders simply don’t follow through these recommendations and simply breed specimens randomly, without thorough health checks.

Also check out our guide on health issues faced by popular dog breeds.

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