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DPCA BREEDERS EDUCATION Q & A - Page 5 2004 |
A: from Darlene Young, Darwin Dobermans, USA
Vicky:
Again, when bathing the dog you should never scrub against the coat, it stirs up
dead skin and actually increases the dandruff. Always rub the the direction of
the coat while bathing and while drying. Always put the soap in your hands first
and apply to the coat with your hands, not pouring the soap directly on to the
coat.
My Dobe is almost 8 months old. I have tried to be very precise in taping/posting his ears exactly as my breeder told me to.
His right ear has been standing perfectly since he was 5 1/2 months old...his left ear however has never stood perfectly for more than 24 hours. (about 2" from the top it starts leaning in toward his right ear.)
He has a long show crop and I am still taping, and will continue to do so for another 3 or 4 months before I really consider giving up I guess. BUT, if his left ear never does stand perfectly like the other is it possible, or recommended, to have his ears re-cropped? Is that ever done, and with any luck?
If I did have it done, I would take him back to the breeder I got him from and have the same person crop them that did it before. She flies in from several states away to crop his pups ears, as well as other breeders pups in the area, so I am pretty sure she's extremely good at what she does! Any thoughts on this would be appreciated.
A: from Judy Doniere, Toledobes, USA
Vicki,
It sounds like your puppy has a "pocket" at the base of his ear causing it to lean in towards the other ear.
Here is what I'd do.
Take something small like one of the popcorn packing pieces you get in boxes. You can either use Skin Bond to coat one side or reverse tape the popcorn and shove it against the dimple that is inside the ear just where it starts to pop in causing the ear to lean. Push out the dimple with the popcorn and then take a 2 " piece of tape and wrap around the ear at that point. Leave it up for well over a week. If you only use one strip of tape surrounding the ear, it shouldn't cause any problem but be sure to smell the ear for any sign of infection. Do not brace the ear to the other ear. Leave the good ear alone. This may take several tapings like this to accomplish what you want.
Good luck.
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Reply to Judy Doniere's Response
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A: from Judy Doniere in response to Vicki
You are just trying to correct one ear, correct? Also, you wrote and said it was just the top 1/3 of the ear. If that is the case, take a piece of insulation tubing, reverse tape it or you might use surgical glue and put it in the ear on the reverse side that you want the ear to straighten. If the ear tips in then put it on the inside of the ear at the start of the break. Bend the ear over this and tape it. You want it to be taped in the opposite direction of the bend. This way it won't crease but will make the ear go in the opposite direction. If the ear then drops down because of the tubing, you might want to take a strip of 2" inch tape and wrap the ear at the bottom once to give it support. Do not do anything with the good ear if it's standing well.
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A: from Darlene Young, Darwin Dobermans, USA
Vicky:
You can re-crop at an older age but perhaps there are some corrective measures
you can take now while you are wrapping. If the ear is curling in towards the
other ear, you can get "No-Snore Breathe Right Strips" from any pharmacy (used
for people that snore). You can place them on the outside and the inside of the
top of the ear and secure them with a little tape down the outer and inner
edges. You would get the large size. This helps the dog to continue to use the
ears and tone the muscles at the same time helps secure the "rolling" problem at
the tip. I would try this method for a while before re-cropping.
A: from Darlene Young, Darwin Dobermans, USA
Jamie:
If you email me privately, I will give you the names and numbers of some mentors
in your area that might be able to help.
A: from Judy Doniere, Toledobes, USA
There is a very good Vet whose name is Sam Grant DVM. I think he is in Cincinnati but may be in Dayton. I'm sure any Vet can tell you how to reach him. Sam has had Dobes for many years and is an excellent cropper.
A: from Marj Brooks, Manorie Dobermans, USA
I don't know who you can contact as a veterinarian in that area for ears but I can recommend a few breeders or better yet a Doberman club in the area to contact for some suggestions. You can get the ears done at any time now, by the way.
Kentucky/Ohio: Miami Valley DPC, Laurie Fite 513-891-5729, e-mail is; softaildobemom@isoc.net. Micky Minnich, 513-563-6252, e-mail is mminnich@isoc.net. You can also go to www.DPCA.org and get more names of clubs in Ohio. There are clubs in Columbus, Toledo, Dayton Euclid/Marysville area. I hope that this helps you get a suggestion or two for a vet who is an ear cropper specialist.
There is a Doberman person who is a vet and does beautiful ears in the Atlanta Georgia area if you want to take a trip. She is Dr. Patty Edwards, DVM.
Q:
from TJ
Date: Wednesday, May 19, 2004
Time: 8:52 AM
Comments: Breeding the Doberman
Hi, I'm TJ.
I would like to say thank you very much for your support. Well I would like to ask some questions regarding breeding:
When will the enlargement of our dog's belly would be noticed?
And is it really bad for our dog to move a lot or bark coz a friend of mine said this might cause our dog to abort her pups?
By the way, her last mating session was last may 5th. Thank you and more power.
A: from Judy Doniere, Toledobes, USA
Some bitches show at 5 wks. others not until 7 wks. If there is only one or two pups, they may not show much at all. If they only have one or two pups, you most likely will have to have a c-section as many bitches just don't go into hard labor. Make sure you take temperatures from 59 days every few hours round the clock if you think there is only a couple pups so you don't miss when she is due.
A: from Marj Brooks, Manorie Dobermans, USA
Hello TJ,
I know that Darlene and maybe some others wrote some answers to your question.
We do have some very good articles on our pages:
Also, here are some ideas to do that have proven to be worthwhile after the pups are here.
Take a look at the articles
page for more that I may have missed. There is a wealth of information on these
pages.
Good Luck!
First of all, thanks for your help about my Dobe.
As far as the bleeding is concerned it stopped. However, my questions are:
A: from Darlene Young, Darwin Dobermans, USA
Barking and exercise in general will not cause your bitch to reabsorb her puppies. You should start noticing physical changes after 30 days in to whelp.
Comments: DCPA opinion on recognized breeders actions
I am interested in obtaining the DPCA's opinion on the actions of a clubs recognized breeder.
I purchased a puppy from breeder and picked-up the puppy from them. Upon picking up the puppy from the breeder, the breeder said the puppy was acting a little strange and that it may have ingested a little tape from an ear wrapping from one of the litter mates, the breeder said they gave it some oil to try to help pass the tape. I brought the puppy home and noticed the next day that the puppy was a little lethargic and showing no appetite. After a couple of days, the puppy's symptoms were getting worse, and still no appetite. I notified the breeder, and asked if any other puppies showed the same symptoms, to which they replied "NO". I told them that if the symptoms do not begin to go away I will take the puppy into the vet.
After several more days of observing a declining health in the puppy, I brought it to another, more experienced vet, upon his examination he diagnosed that the puppy had an obstruction in the intestines and that immediate surgery was needed to remove it. The puppy in fact swallowed tape and that it had seriously injured him. Over two feet of intestines were removed and meds were administered to combat the damaged intestines.
The damage turned out fatal.
In short, the breeder knowingly sent me home with a puppy that had indeed swallowed tape before I took possession. The breeder is now not accepting responsibility for this unfortunate circumstance and not willing to reimburse me the costs for the vet bills.
I would think there is some sort of code of conduct stating that breeders are not to release potentially damaged puppies to un-knowing buyers and then not stepping up and taking responsibility for damages.
I would like to here from you regarding such actions of a DPCA breeder and what you would suggest as a remedy.
Thank you for your time and look forward to hearing from you shortly.
A: from Judy Doniere, Toledobes, USA
If the breeder was a member of the DPCA, you could file charges against her. If not, there is a lemon law in the U.S. regarding "unhealthy puppies." I don't really know all the details but you could probably call the Dept. of Agriculture in your state and find out what you can do.
Another thing would be to take the breeder to small claims court to collect the purchase price and Vet bills I would think.
Make sure you keep all copies of correspondences and bills to present in court.
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Wayne's Response to the above email reply:
Thank you for your response. Yes the breeder is a DCPA member, can you tell me the procedures for filing charges against them.
Judy Doniere's Reply:
The Grievance Chair person is Jan Van Wormer. Her e-mail is jan_vanwormer@hotmail.com Jan has moved to AZ so I'm not sure this is the correct e-mail. If you don't get a response, contact Pat Cornelius Esq. Her e-mail is murphyslaw@qnet.com
Q:
From Lisa
Date: Sunday, May 16, 2004
Time: 9:55 AM
Comments: Breeding the Doberman
We want our Doberman to have one litter of puppies, not to necessarily breed but
for us to have on our property. What age is best for the female and what age is
too late?
Same question for the male. They are both in good health.
A: from Darlene Young, Darwin Dobermans, USA
Lisa:
We as breeders don't recommend breeding dogs unless they are good
representatives of the breed. You should have both the male and female
evaluated by someone in your area that can mentor you in your endeavours in our
breed. If you go to
www.dpca.org you
can request the name of a mentor near you.
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A: from Marj Brooks, Manorie Dobermans, USA
Hello Lisa,
The acceptable age to breed a bitch would be about 2 years of age or on her 3rd heat cycle. Before you do breed her there are a lot of things to consider. The latest that you can breed her, breeding her while she is a younger Doberman is the best chance for her to conceive and have puppies. Go to http://66.101.7.11/reproseminarhutch.htm in order to learn a lot about reproduction.
I would also suggest that you visit our
article menu in order to browse various
submissions about breeding and
genetics.
In the meantime, breeding is a serious endeavour and it takes a lot of studying and time in order to do it responsibly.
"It is the purpose of the Doberman Pinscher
Club of America to 'preserve and protect the Doberman Pinscher'. We as members
adhere to this and follow a code of ethics. So with that in mind, I will try to
answer your complicated
question.
I don't recommend breeding for you. Here are some of the reasons why:
Q: from Carrie
Date: Friday, May 14, 2004
Time: 12:41 PM
Comments: Tracing Tattoo--THANK YOU!
Awhile back I wrote asking for advice on how to trace my adopted Dobe's tattoo.
Well, thanks to your help I finally got her address from the CKC and wrote her a
letter. Although she was disappointed that the previous owners hadn't returned
him to her when they found they couldn't keep him, she was so glad to hear that
Esham was doing well and with a family who adores him. We're planning to meet in
the next few weeks. And she's gonna bring baby pictures of him:) So, I just
wanted to say thank you for your help. This site is great.
We are of course thrilled that we were able to help you out and especially pleased that you chose to update us on your success. Thank you and please keep us posted.
Q: from
Tiffany Medrick
Date: Friday, May 14, 2004
Time: 2:34 AM
Comments:
My husband and I are thinking about buying a couple of Dobermans (I wanted one,
but he thinks that it might need a play mate). I also have a four-year-old
daughter and want another child within the next year.
Tiffany:
You should read the
articles that are
posted on this website, there are several good ones about getting a new puppy.
I don't recommend getting two puppies at the same time and in the case of your potentially growing family I would only recommend getting one dog and making sure it works for you first before getting another. I usually recommend females but other breeders have other ideas. Females are smaller and mature mentally faster. With a family this is a consideration.
Dobermans in general are not pack animals and prefer the company of their "human" family over other animals. They are bred for guard so they will guard your home but should welcome visitors that you allow to enter.
You should research the temperaments that the potential breeder has produced by asking for referrals of people who own puppies from them. An honest breeder will tell you whether their puppies will do well in a young family like yours and will try to match the right one to your needs and living style.
Marsha:
Without seeing the dog in question this is hard to answer but my definition of "loaded in the shoulders" would mean that there would be an extra layer of fat over the shoulder blade giving a rough, lumpy impression. It could also mean the shoulders are lumpy on the side through the shoulder blade.
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A: from Judy Doniere, Toledobes, USA
Loaded in the shoulders means too much muscling in the shoulder area. The reason for this usually is that the spine of the scapula is off center....more forward causing the muscling to not be distributed equally and so muscle builds up behind the scapula.
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A: from Marj Brooks, Manorie Dobermans, USA
Hello Marsha,
Loaded shoulders means that the shoulders are excessively muscled shoulders; overdevelopment of shoulder muscles; loaded under the shoulder blade (causes out at the elbows).
This definition is from the Structure and Terminology by Edward M. Gilbert and Thelma R. Brown.
Here is more from Canine Terminology by Harold R. Spira.
Loaded shoulders syn. bossy shoulders, coarse shoulders, lumpy shoulders. Normally taken as excessive development of the muscles on the outside surface of the shoulder blades. A dog so affected tends to appear lumpy, over-developed, bossy, bulging or loaded in the forequarters region; it also exhibits a somewhat abrupt base of neck and shoulders junction.
Although shoulder muscle development, from adequate to heavy, is an essential requirement of harness and draught dogs, over-development in that area is likely to lead to restricted muscle bound type movement. A similar appearance can be produced also by a heavier than normal muscle build up on the underneath surfaces of the shoulder blades.
Q: from TJ
TJ:
Take her to a veterinarian immediately. It could be normal discharge and it could be much more serious. If it's an infection you could lose her so I would not wait to seek professional help.
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A: from Marj Brooks, Manorie Dobermans, USA
Hello T.J.,
It is too soon to tell whether or not that your girl is pregnant. You can have an ultra-sound done at 28 or 29 days.
As for the drops of blood I am not sure without seeing and knowing your girl if it is good or not. I personally like the girls to go out of season right away after the breeding, but the normal bleeding time is 21 days. If she is still doing this today, and she is past the 21 days, maybe a trip to the vet just to make sure everything is normal would be advisable.
There are several articles about the mating and things to do for your pregnant Doberman and also the article
There are also articles about the actual whelping, caring of the puppies and also the rearing at http://www.dpca-breedered.com/birthing_process.htm.
If your girl is going to have puppies, there are some great ideas to do such as
There are a lot more to read and learn about this important decision of breeding your Doberman.
You can print these articles too for reference. I hope that this helps.
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A: from Susanne Smith, Alpha Dobermans, USA
Your dog should be examined by a vet. It may be that it is just residual discharge from her heat cycle, but better safe than sorry. We cannot give you a diagnosis. This should be done by your veterinarian.
A: from Darlene Young, Darwin Dobermans, USA
Wendy:
On the vaccine protocol I know that many new theories are being introduced. I do think I heard that corona vaccine elimination is one of them.
On the suckling, I have seen many Dobermans do this. I used to think it was from being pulled off their mother too young but I don't think that is it at all. I know there are a few "studies" going on currently to try to determine the cause but at this point I don't think it's a particular problem.
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A: Suzanne Smith, Alpha Dobermans, USA
Many of us are discontinuing the Corona vaccine. It is considered to be a non-core (non life threatening) disease, and is not as prevalent as it once was. However, It is a personal decision to vaccinate or not for Corona, and that decision should be based on number of cases found in your area. Get some opinions from different vets in your area.
In my opinion, blanket suckling is like thumb sucking. It seems to have a calming affect to the dogs. It is a Doberman trait and is perfectly harmless unless the dog becomes obsessive or destructive with the behaviour. If you see no harm in it, the let him suckle. Give him a blanket or pillow he can call his own. As long as he doesn't eat it, let him pacify himself. The only objection I have with my blanket suckers is they want my goose down pillows which can't be washed!
I would not recommend getting a Doberman if you are concerned about dog aggression, as they can be. Not that they all are, but depending on the breed of dogs you have, it can be a potential problem. I would absolutely not recommend a male Doberman if you have a male of any breed.
Q: from Bonnie
I have a number of Dobes and during the dry spring season when dust and pollen run high, I have one dog who gets "eye goop".
Change to a different bedding. If he/she sleeps on a carpet, put a sheet down and see if this helps. A room purifier may help also.
Also, do not rule out conjunctivitis or eye infection. If her symptoms do not clear up in a couple of days after you make the changes, have her checked out at the vet.
Q: from
Mark Franke
Date: Tuesday, May 4, 2004
Time: 8:48 AM
Comments: puppies general
Mark:
First of all a puppy should not leave the litter prior to 8 weeks of age and in this case it sound like the puppy will be a little older than that. The ears, in my opinion should also not be done prior to 8 weeks of age but everyone has a different theory. I prefer to not introduce any stress during the 7th week as that is a critical period for the puppy. You can check this website for several articles regarding critical periods and puppy rearing by going to our article menu .
As for spaying, there are different theories as you have stated. The best advice I can give you is to check with you veterinarian. I prefer to spay them prior to their first season but there are theories that letting them have a season is good for their growth, etc. I hope this helps you but please do read some of the great articles we have on this website for even more information.
Hi. My Dobie is only 8 weeks old. When we bought it he already had bumps on his head an numerous bumps all over his body. We were told that it might be a " BLUE COAT SYNDROME" is that true?? We took him to Vet yet he could not tell us what was it. CAN IT BE staph pyoderma ???? OR how can we tell the difference and WHAT SHOULD WE DO???
Thank you so much.
A: from Darlene Young, Darwin Dobermans, USA
Albert:
Bumps on the skin can be caused by a lot of different things but I would believe
in a puppy this age it is probably some sort of staph infection going on. Most
Veterinarians would put the puppy on cephalexin to help clear it up. You might
ask your veterinarian about that. It could also be as simple as something I call
"puppy staph" and that usually goes away with age but if it's down the body you
probably should be treating it.
Q: from Erin W.
Date: Monday, May 3, 2004
Time: 8:33 PM
Comments: Exercise
I have heard that you only want to
exercise a pup up to 15 minutes a day of exercise until they are a year old so
as to not stress the bones, but I've seen some 7 month old Dobes who are just a
ball of energy, and would obviously be impossible to handle on only 15 minutes a
day.
What I am getting at, is what is the appropriate amount (max. amount) of time a
Doberman pup and growing adolescent should be exercised, and what type of
activities are best? I understand exercise levels vary from dog to dog, but what
is a healthy amount?
Thanks!
Erin:
I think what you are referring to is controlled exercise. Yes that should not
exceed 15 minutes per day at the age of you puppy. However, free exercise,
running, jumping, playing should be the amount the puppy can handle. They will
tell you when they have had enough.
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A: from Judy Doniere, Toledobes, USA
If the pup has access to a back yard and has some toys he will work off some of that energy. Throwing a tennis ball or frisbie won't hurt him. Make sure you take them away when you are not with him. I'd say 15 min. of lots of running on grass won't hurt him but up until he's about 18 mo. at least, no road working or any forced exercise on hard surfaces. Pups are like kids, they will play until they drop so just because he wants to continue, you decide when enough is enough.
Q: from
Raktim Guha
Date: Monday, May 3, 2004
Time: 7:34 AM
Comments: Doberman Conformation/Handling
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A: from Judy Bohnert, Equinox Dobermans, Canada
This is definitely not a common occurrence ... I have only ever seen one "bobbed" tail over the 30+ years that I have been in the breed and that one was at least 15 - 20 years ago.
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A: from Judy Doniere, Toledobes, USA
There is/was a lady named Brown in the Colorado area that had several dogs that were born bobtailed. One red male that I know of finished his Championship fairly easy. I know I put him up at least once.
I had long talks with her about it. Either the sire or grandsire had a bobbed tail. I told her that unless there was a spinal defect or something lethal, she could try and start a line of them by back breeding. In order to do this however, you'd have to have outstanding conformation as it would require intense inbreeding to turn mutation into an established gene.
I certainly wouldn't recommend it. In the very early years a breeder tried to do this and it didn't work I don't know what he was dealing with however.
A: from Darlene Young, Darwin Dobermans, USA
Tim:
Can you tell us the area you live in and perhaps we could recommend a mentor
that lives near you and is a member of DPCA.
A: from Judy Bohnert, Equinox, USA
These are all breeders located in TX that might be willing to mentor a newbie:
ED & IRENE BIVIN
FT. Worth, TX 76109-1616
ph. 817-924-0211
e.bivin@tcu.edu
JUDY BROWN
Houston TX 77036-6027
ph. (713) 772-9903
MARGARET DOWNEY
SouthLake, TX 76092-8267
ph. 817-481-3019
sip@onramp.net
LINDA GEORGE
RIchmond, TX 77459-8430
ph. 281-342-1720
lpmgeorge@hotmail.com
JONI KAHN
San Antonio TX 78259-1743
ph. (210) 497-3519
jmkahntex@aol.com
THERESA NAIL
Dallas, TX 75217
ph. 972-286-3225
JEANENNE THOMPSON
Dublin, TX 76446
ph. 254-445-4482
jthompson@texinet.net
I would highly recommend Joni Kahn from the list above. I am sure she and the following breeder (and I am certain the latter is a DPCA member too), both of whom I know personally is:
If you contact her feel free to
mention my name (Judy Bohnert)
Q: from Gary Boyd
Date: Thursday, April 29, 2004
Time: 2:19 AM
Comments: Breeding the Doberman
Hi all I think my Doberman may be in pup. If she is she will be 55 days gone.
Should I see any signs yet?
Regards Gary
from Dublin Ireland
A: from Marj Brooks, Manorie Dobermans, USA
Hello Gary,
I think that by 55 days you should be able to see whether or not your Doberman
is going to have puppies. However, if she was only going to have one, it may be
hard to tell. There are little subtle signs that you can check and that is her
nipples will elongated, she can have a clearish discharge coming from her vulva,
and her vulva still should be enlarged.
These are not fool-proof either. Your safest bet is to take her to the
veterinarian and have him check for you. He may even want to take an x-ray or
use another more of a fool-proof method to tell for sure whether or not she is
actually pregnant.
I hope that I have answered the question that you asked.
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A: from Judy Doniere, Toledobes, USA
Sometimes you see a big change and sometimes you don't at this stage. She may be only having one or two pups. I'd wait until 58 days and then x-ray her to be sure.
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A: from Darlene Young, Darwin Dobermans, USA
Gary: You should already see signs and whelping would be in another 5 to 7
days. I would take her to a vet and have an x-ray done to be sure she is or is
not. The veterinarian would know if it's safe to do so.
Q: from Kathy Cohen
Date: Tuesday, April 27, 2004
Time: 7:58 PM
Comments: Doberman Conformation/Handling
I have a Dobe puppy I am getting conflicting info on ear cropping help. I have
heard it has to be done before 16 weeks and up to 6 months. Mine is 15 weeks
now. HELP PLEASE. Thank you
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A: from Darlene Young, Darwin Dobermans, USA
Kathy:
My experience has been that you need to do the ear crop before the age of 16 weeks.
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A: from Judy Doniere, Toledobes, USA
Kathy,
You're too late to have your puppy cropped. It's best down before 10 weeks. Some Vets have done them at 12 weeks but I can tell you from experience, doing ears at that late a date is very hard on the puppy. The ears are usually cropped short and they are very hard to get standing.
If it were me I'd just enjoy your uncropped puppy as is.
Just so you know, most show breeders have their pups cropped before they go to their new homes.
A: from Marj Brooks, Manorie Dobermans, USA
Hello Mary
It is the purpose of the Doberman Pinscher Club of America to "preserve and
protect the Doberman Pinscher". We as members adhere to this and follow a code
of ethics. So with that in mind, I will try to answer your complicated
question.
I don't recommend this type of breeding for you. Here are some of the reasons
why:
One suggestion that I have is for you to make a
chart on the parents and the grand-parents listing the positive traits in one
column and the negative in another. If you are doubling up on any negative
health, temperament, or structural trait, DO NOT consider this type of breeding.
I am just touching on only a FEW of the many reasons as to my not recommending
this type of breeding.
The responsibility of the resultant puppies in ANY breeding should be a lifetime
commitment for every breeder. Please keep that in mind with ANY breeding that
you may do in the future but especially in regard to this breeding. The end
result is that you may be very sorry to have done it and you will very likely
pay dearly for having done it, often sadly with some of the puppies lives.
This has been a tough question to answer and I hope that I have been of some
help for you.
A: from Judy Bohnert, Equinox Dobermans, Canada
Marj that is an awesome reply and for that I thank you from the bottom of my heart. The responsibility of the resultant puppies in ANY breeding is definitely a lifetime commitment for the breeder. Please keep that in mind with ANY breeding that you may do in the future but especially in regard to this type of breeding. The end result is that you may be very sorry to have done it and you and/or ANY dogs of your breeding will very likely pay dearly for your having done it. Dogs from most inbreedings such as this often and sadly pay with their very lives and ultimately the potential owners pay with the heartbreak that they endure.
I have had occasion to raise an inbred litter that carries my kennel name and although I personally did NOT *breed* this litter but instead I simply whelped it, raised it and placed the thirteen resultant puppies as a favor to the person who was stuck with it, much to the detriment of my own reputation and the reputation of all of my previous, present and future dogs, I bore, and still do bear, the brunt of each and every problem that has arisen or will arise due to that particular litter's problems and likely will forever.
I hope this doesn't come across as sour grapes on my part because I simply wish to perhaps stop a potential hazard from ever happening but I rarely (spelled never) get any credit for the good that is done by any of these dogs that resulted from this inbred litter but I do indeed pay dearly for the bad. The sad part is that some people take every opportunity to ditz ALL of the dogs of my breeding partly due to this particular litter.
I have since then bred an inbred litter freely and of my own choice and the three pups that resulted from that union are fine, perfect family pets without any emotional or physical problems to this day, at least to my knowledge, BUT we all know that that is a rarity in and of itself.
This is an extremely personal and emotional issue for me but still I had to write a reply to Mary because I think I have a concrete example of WHY she should not breed these two dogs.
Hopefully this reply will NOT start up any rumour mongering about me and my kennel and particularly my dogs because I would much rather NOT open such an old wound up. However, if it is for the future well being of any Dobermans to be then I will deal with it as it comes, just as I have for many years now.
Q: from
Carrie
Date: Thursday, April 22, 2004
Time: 8:02 PM
Comments: Doberman Health
Hello once again! I've gone through the archives
but couldn't find a letter about eating grass so thought I should ask.
Our Doberman grazes in our yard like a cow! He doesn't make him vomit and he
does it everyday. We don't use pesticides anywhere on our property so the grass
doesn't have anything bad on it. He looks as healthy as ever, eats well and his
stools look normal--I have a habit of watching for problems.
He eats Eagle to which I add ground flax seed and depending on what vegetables we're having with dinner he gets some too. He's as energetic as ever.
Should I be concerned? Should I try to stop him
or just limit how much he grazes?
A: from Marj Brooks, Manorie Dobermans,
USA
Hello Carrie,
If your Doberman seems okay and healthy, you need not be concerned. My Dobermans
do the same thing. In fact we always joke about all of our Dobermans being
grazers.
His diet sounds okay to me.
Q: from Janet
A: from Darlene Young, Darwin Dobermans, USA
Janet: All you can do is work with the ears and see if you can get the tips straightened. I would say that 10 months is a little late. You can get "breath right strips" from the drug store and use them on the inside and outside of the ear to keep it rigid without completely wrapping the ears.
*** *** ***
A: from Marj Brooks, Manorie Dobermans, USA
Hello Janet,
No it is not too late to correct this tipping out problem. The ears should be
pointed straight up to 12 o'clock. You must post the ears and continue to solid
wrap them. There is an article on our pages on how to wrap older puppies ears,
written by Carol Petruzzo. I would recommend following her method to achieve the
desired 12 o'clock position of the erect ears.
A: from Marj Brooks, Manorie Dobermans, USA
Hello Pat,
This is a tough one because everyone has heart disease in their lines. Actual
testing for heart problems is no guarantee of success but in this manner many
breeders are learning more and more about heart disease.
What I suggest that you try to do is:
At the very least, check that both parents of whatever litter you are going to get a puppy from, have been tested for heart defects before being bred.
Only buy from a breeder that is conscious of each and every inherent health problem in the breed and takes these results into consideration in all of his/her breeding decisions. Breeding stock should be tested with the Holter Monitor every year. For example, if the prospective sire and dam are tested and either one or both has a heart murmur, (one symptom of cardiomyopathy), then the breeder can, and should, decide not to breed that animal. However, that is the best that can be done by any breeder at this point.
If possible buy from a breeder who has three generations or more of tested parentage that are all normal, even though this is extremely difficult to find.
Doberman breeders today are very lucky in that there are several studies going on that address cardiomyopathy and therefore we are hopeful that we, as reputable breeders, can gain more and more knowledge to use as a tool to eliminate heart disease in the breed someday.
You can read more about cardiomyopathy in some of the articles listed under health on our article_menu. For a breeding history you can read the article Illena And The Seven Sires.
*** *** ***
A: from Judy Doniere, Toledobes, USA
Wouldn't we all love to know that for certain? I guess about all that you can do is to ascertain that the parents are tested, especially the males. This is a huge problem in this breed but even so, while it's in all lines, not all dogs have it. It's just hard to know which ones don't unfortunately.
*** *** ***
A: from Darlene Young, Darwin Dobermans, USA
Pat:
Unfortunately this disease (cardiomyopathy) is ingrained in our breed but you
can do some things to aid you in your search. If any of the ancestors in the
first three generations of the dog's pedigree died of cardio you would want to
stay away from a puppy from that.
There is also a test (ultrasound) and most reputable breeders should be testing their breeding stock.
There are some lines out there that aren't as prone to heart problems but keep in mind it's in almost every line.
Q:
from Tim Guttmann
Date: Wednesday, April 14, 2004
Time: 11:20 AM
Comments: Doberman Health
I own a 17 month old female Dobe. She is in great health, however, she has accumulated several "bumps" on her chin. When she plays with my other dogs she sometimes busts these bumps and they bleed. Are there any ointments or preventative measures that I can take to get rid of her bumps? Any help would be great!
A: from Marj Brooks, Manorie Dobermans, USA
Hello Tim,
The little bumps that you are talking about on your Doberman's chin sounds like
a staph infection. You can treat this topically with a mixture of 1 part bleach
to 4 parts of water dabbed on the chin, then put some of antibiotic cream on it.
With this method the staph should dry up in a matter of days.
A veterinarian may prescribe lincomycin (or lincocin) or something to give to her as well.
You should also wash her chin after she eats and get the excess food off so that it doesn't cake on. I have been successful with this washing routine in the past. The washing after she eats might well be a daily routine throughout her life. It is sure worth a try.
*** *** ***
A: from Darlene Young, Darwin Dobermans, USA
Tim:
The best treatment for this type of "staph" is to make sure you clean the chin after every meal. Also the veterinarian could put the dog on an antibiotic for a period of time to help clear it up. Cleaning the chin after eating is a big help.
*** *** ***
A: from Anna Browning, Windsor Dobermans, USA
What you are describing is likely chin acne. It can be caused by food matter (wet or soaked food typically) that is allowed to "sit" on the chin after eating. The pores become clogged, and pustules form. They "pop" just like acne does. The best way to prevent chin acne is to wipe the chin off after every meal and to keep it clean. Washing the chin with a hydrogen peroxide solution can help dry out the area and heal the acne. You should do this twice a day until the problem resolves.
Q:
from Donna Billard
Date: Tuesday, April 13, 2004
Time: 10:06 AM
Comments: Grooming Blues
I have a thin-coated blue Dobe . What type of brushes and/or combs are best to remove dirt and help blood circulation in the skin? We feed Innova dry with lots of supplements and give monthly baths. We presently use a hunt glove and rubber curry brush. Tank you for any suggestions.
A: from Marj Brooks, Manorie Dobermans, USA
Hello,
Just plain petting your Doberman's smooth coat is great. I would suggest using a
nice, soft, horsehair-type brush for daily brushing as well. What you are
actually doing sounds good too.
Have you read the article called Blue Doberman Alopecia which is all about blue Dobermans. There is also a diet called Rescue Remedy For BLUE Dobermans that should be of help to you.
Q: from Bob
Date: Thursday, April 8, 2004
Time: 2:11 PM
Comments: Doberman Health
We feed our 2 year old 65 lb red female 1.5 cups of Eagle Holistic twice/day. We
give her 1 fish oil pill from Costco with each meal for Omega 3. How much
fish oil should I be giving (if at all) for coat condition? Are there
other coat supplements I should consider?
Bob:
You should discuss coat problems with your veterinarian. We give fish oil but not for coat improvement. Fish oil is a muscle supplement for heart muscle. Our veterinarian recommended melatonin but you should consult with yours and get the thyroid checked as well.
*** *** ***
A: from Marj Brooks, Manorie Dobermans, USA
Hello Bob,
From what I understand, 1 fish oil pill per day is enough. I could recommend
that you give a tablespoon of Sunflower oil. I do like the product called
Missing Link too. Feed Vit E (400 units, 2 time per day) and Vit C (500 mgs,
2 times per day). You can get the E and the C at Costco as well.
A: from Judy Bohnert, Equinox Kennels, Canada
Hi Carrie,
Please contact CKC information@ckc.ca and they will advise you as to who uses that tattoo combo or you can visit their website at http://ckc.ca/default-refresh.asp.
Thank you for rescuing this poor boy and for caring enough to try to track his breeder down. If I can be of *any* further assistance please don't hesitate to ask.
Q: from
Tina P
Date: Monday, April 5, 2004
Time: 1:42 PM
Comments: Doberman Health
Hello. I emailed you once before regarding my Dobe that was going through a false labor and wanted to thank you for your help. Now I have another question...
My breeder took our dog for a week while we went
on vacation and she said that we should hold off on having her spayed right now
because her vulva is inverted and that it would cause problems in the future
with urinary tract infections.
She said that it should pop out more and it's not, which will cause a pocket of
urine to build up. The vet never heard of anything like that before, so I am
confused...What do I do ?
Have any of you ever experienced this and should I wait and let her have her 2nd
heat or not? Thanks
A: from Judy Doniere, Toledobes, USA
Many bitches have inverted vulvas. If it's not causing any infection at this time, I wouldn't think it would be a problem. I had a bitch myself with the same thing and when she was very young (under 3 months) she got infections from the urine collecting there. She outgrew it. I had her spayed young but I don 't remember the age. She lived to be 11 and had no further problems.
*** *** ***
A: from Darlene Young, Darwin Dobermans, USA
Tina: Waiting another season is not going to cause an inverted vulva to change, in my opinion. I have a bitch at home that is 9 years old, has had one litter, has been spayed and has an inverted vulva. Anytime you spay you are risking urinary problems and this bitch of mine is indeed on DES for that problem. But is has nothing to do with the vulva shape, urinary problems begin up higher in the bladder. It is true, that an inverted vulva can lead to infections because of "trapped" urine but spaying will not change or enhance that issue.
Hope this helps.]
*** *** ***
A: Anna Browning, Windsor Dobermans, USA
Pooling of urine can occur in bitches who have a vaginal stricture. An "inverted" vulva is NOT the same as a vaginal stricture. In some bitches, the vulva can appear small or malformed, giving an inverted appearance.... however, there is no data that I'm aware of that supports a theory that the malformed vulva will cause pooled urine, nor that it will not "pop out" as the bitch matures and goes through subsequent heat cycles.
I would rely on the information presented by a your licensed Veterinarian. If you feel more comfortable, perhaps a second opinion from a Board Certified internist or Reproductive specialist may be indicated.
*** *** ***
A: from Marj Brooks, Manorie Dobermans, USA
Hello Tina,
I think if she were to have that problem she would have had it by now and you
would have noticed something. It is possible that the inverted vulva can cause a
problem (not necessarily that particular one) where the urine collects in a
pocket and can cause her to leak. Has this happened?
Waiting for a second heat period could help
correct the inverted vulva. If I were you I might gamble on her having a
second heat period and hope that it will correct.
What does the vet say about the inverted vulva?
To date I have not experienced the first heat period not
correcting the inverted vulva.
Hopefully you can get a better answer from one of the other breeders.
Q:
from Jean Chiles
Date: Monday, April 5, 2004
Time: 12:03 AM
Comments: Doberman Health
What is the average age of a Doberman if he/she
is a healthy dog?
A:
from Darlene Young, Darwin Dobermans, USA
Jean:
Studies in the past have indicated the average life expectancy of a Doberman to be around 9 years. I don't have the specific articles to cite, only what I have heard over the years. I have had many live to 12+ and so have other breeders. If your dog doesn't have any genetic diseases such as Cardio, CVI or Cancer you are probably in for a wonderful, full life of 12+ years with your Doberman.
John:
As advocates of purebred dogs, we Doberman breeders do not recommend mixing breeds or even breeding purebred dogs that are not of good quality for the standard of our breed.
*** *** ***
A: from Anna Browning, Windsor Dobermans, USA
Why would you want to "cross" breeds of dogs together - on purpose?? There are enough accidental breeding in this world without us doing them purposefully. I'd suggest discovering the real reasons for wanting such a "cross". I would most strongly disagree with bringing more "mutt" dogs into this world.
*** *** ***
A: from Marj Brooks, Manorie Dobermans, USA
Hello John,
This type of a breeding is not a good idea in my opinion. My reasons are
endless. I don't recommend Dobermans to be crossed with any other breed.
*** *** ***
A:
from Susanne Smith, Alpha Dobermans, USA
ABSOLUTELY NOT. Breeding mixed breed dogs is very irresponsible. There are far
too many dogs that get euthanized each year because they can not get placed into
loving homes. Please, don't breed these dogs. You will be responsible for the
outcome.
Jody:
Unless you are willing to spend a great deal of money testing the parents ($500+ each), cropping the puppies ears ($250+ each), paying the stud fee ($1000+) and the costs of breeding in general, I would re-think it. You don't make any money breeding Dobermans as there is so much overhead cost associated with the breeding. As far as market, they are not the top popular breeds and most prospective buyers seek out long time breeders who test their breeding stock fully for any genetic diseases, etc. You also have to be prepared to guarantee the puppies, meaning that you will replace any that have something wrong with them, or the owners want to give them up (you must take them back and find new homes). It's a life long commitment for that litter.
Hope this answers you question.
*** *** ***
A: from Marj Brooks, Manorie Dobermans, USA
Hello Jody,
I don't know what the market demand in Western Oklahoma is but I do know that
the buying public are asking for a number of specifics that they would like when
purchasing a family companion in the Doberman. One of the many things that they
are asking and requiring now-a-days is that the parents of the puppies are
health tested for all of the genetic health problems that exist in the Doberman
and breeding decisions are made based on the results of these tests.
Here is a list of more things that need to be
considered when taking on the responsibility of breeding Dobermans. The
following an article that can give you an idea as to what the public will be
looking for in a breeder.
http://www.dpca-breedered.com/breeders_good_bad.htm
There are several more articles on our articles page about breeders and also about breeding. Please take a look.
I think that you will find that breeding Dobermans and dogs in general is a tremendous responsibility and also expensive financially as well of of lot of other things.
A: from Judy Doniere, Toledobes, USA
If you're not the breeder, the best age to pick out puppies is 8 wks. If you are the breeder whelping the litter, you see the everyday changes and can usually sort the puppies from the best to the least quality.
I watch the puppies on the floor for quite a while before I put them on a table and stack them. The old saying " examine on the table, buy from the floor" is still the best policy. In judging you do the same.
Bring all the pups out together and watch them. The one that your eye goes to every time is your best. Then take that pup away and continue to sort them that way. Then bring them in one at a time and study each pup for how he/she acts alone, then put each on the table to stack. Many pups stack easily and some hate it. Those that hate it either will be better at free stacking or will take a long time to get better at it.
*** *** ***
A: from Darlene Young, Darwin Dobermans, USA
Nelvin:
Yes you are using the same standard as written for adults when you grade your puppy. Breeders begin evaluating the litter from birth until they leave the litter. Usually we "officially" grade the litter between 6 and 8 weeks of age.
*** *** ***
A: from Marj Brooks, Manorie Dobermans, USA
Hello Nelvin,
Personally, I like to grade my puppies at 8 weeks. I feel that 8 weeks is the
best time to judge the potential structure of a puppy. On our articles pages
there are a few articles about evaluating puppies. Also, you can purchase a
video about this, Puppy Puzzle, at
www.dogwise.com at a reasonable price. Here are some articles to read:
http://66.101.7.11/gradingpuppies.htm
Here is an answer or two for the
same question asked previously:
Answer from Theresa Mullen, Terrylane Dobermans, USA
I am hoping I understand what you are asking.....which I think is.....how should
a Doberman puppy look?? How do you know you have a good Doberman
puppy.....and a purebred Doberman??
We have a "STANDARD" that tells us and shows us what a Doberman should look and
act like. I will include our American STANDARD which describes an adult,
and a puppy should follow with the same traits.
The difference is that the puppy is smaller in stature.....the dimensions of the
angles and its relation to the bones, muscles and soft tissue is slightly
different. But the basic form and description of a puppy would be the same
as an adult.
Read the description below.....it should help you understand what you should be
looking for. The legs should be straight....neither toeing in or
out....the back should be "straight"....not "swayed" or "roaching" upward. The
puppy should be "deep bodied"....with the bottom of the chest reaching
definitely to the elbow as you look at the puppy from the side.
The head should have "parallel planes", a proper "stop" and a full, well filled
muzzle, that has good underjaw and squareness ... the shape of a "blunt wedge".
Color of the body and the markings should be proper....and the coat should be
short and tight to the body....without any fuzzy or extreme undercoat.
1..
http://www.dpca.org/JEC/illustrated_standard.htm
2..
http://www.dpca.org/JEC/gradingpuppies.htm
3..
http://www.dpca.org/JEC/selecting_conformation_puppies.htm
I hope this helps clarify things for you. Don't hesitate to contact us
again. I hope that reading these articles can help you.
A: from Judy Doniere, Toledobes, USA
IF the Grandparents are beautiful and healthy with excellent temperaments, then it's the way most breeders select mates. It's called line breeding. If however they are not that good, then forget it.
*** *** ***
A: from Marj Brooks, Manorie Dobermans, USA
The answer to this question depends on a lot of different things when it come to breeding dogs. It depend on who she is her health, her temperament, and her conformation. She will be a strong influence on the resulting litter in that her genes (good and bad) will be doubled up. It depends on so many things, the quality of the two dogs that are her progeny that are in the pedigree. In most cases it is not a good idea to do this kind of a breeding.
*** *** ***
A: from Anna Browning, Windsor Dobermans, USA
Both dogs having the same grandmother is not necessarily a bad thing. Line breeding indicates dogs of similar bloodlines. However, many other things need to be taken into consideration before breeding a bitch.
Health testing of all parents is the first thing that should be done. Temperament compatibility should be checked, as well as phenotype of dogs being bred. Care of puppies (24/7), socialization, and proper care are of the utmost concern. Cropping, vaccinations, etc. need to be done. Puppies need to be placed in appropriate, indoor only homes and insure that the buyer will always return the dog if for some reason it does not work out.
A litter of puppies is a lifetime commitment.
Q: from Thad Lovelace
Q: from
Jill Hagler
Date: Saturday, March 20, 2004
Time: 6:09 PM
Comments: Doberman Health
Our breeder has warned us about spaying our bitch prior to two heat cycles. She
has warned us that she will suffer from urinary incontinence. Our vet says that
is an old wives' tale and further more the risk for cancer greatly increases if
we wait. The truth and facts please.
A: from Anna Browning, Windsor Dobermans, USA
Spaying a bitch prior to her first heat cycle can dramatically decrease the chances of her becoming afflicted with mammary cancer. The chances increase with each passing cycle. It most certainly is not a "wives tale".... cancer in unspayed bitches is much, much greater than in spayed bitches. There is NO health benefit to leaving a bitch intact (unspayed).
Also... keeping an "intact" female is something that should not be taken lightly. In addition to the increased incidence of cancer and other health issues, there are other factors to consider.
Females in season can bleed for up to 4 weeks and can come into season every 4 to 6 months. It can be a very messy endeavor... particularly for the well-loved family pet who sleeps on your bed and cuddles on the sofa!
Bitches in season cannot be left unattended, for fear of an amorous neighbour's male, who is attracted by the scent, being found in the backyard, or parked on your doorstep! Some males will dig out of their yards or jump over their fences from several blocks away.
Breeding dogs - whether accidental or planned - is not for the faint of heart. It is expensive, time-consuming (if done properly) and messy. It can also be heartbreaking if the birth results in death to the mother or puppies. Any resulting puppies become the breeder's responsibility - for life.
Most reputable breeders will place the majority of their dogs on spay/neuter agreements. There are very few dogs that are worthy of becoming Champions and being bred.
For both the health and well-being of your beloved family pet, please consider spaying your bitch as soon as possible.
Q:
from Vicky
Date: Saturday, March 20, 2004
Time: 11:20 AM
Comments: ear crop
My puppy has a long show crop, my other Dobe had the shorter pet crop. The
longer show crop will have to be posted longer it seems to me. He is 5 months
old and his ears still aren't quite where they should be, even though they are
close. At what age will no amount of posting continue to improve the position of
the ears? I don't want to post them if it won't help, because I feel terrible
when I have to pull off tape and put new on. Ouch. :o(
A: from Darlene Young, Darwin Dobermans, USA
Vicky, I have posted a puppy up to 12 months of age once. But I do think that is the exception, not the norm. 5 months is not near late enough to quite posting, keep it up, I've seen a lot of puppies being shown at 6 months of age still getting their ears posted before and after being shown.
*** *** ***
A: from Anna Browning, Windsor Dobermans, USA
My advise on ear taping is to KEEP TAPING! The most common mistake that people make is stopping too soon. This results in ears that flop or curl at the tips. Depending on the cartilage, some pups require taping for several months... sometimes even up to a year or more. If you are worried about hurting the ears, you can purchase an adhesive remover from most vets (we use Hollister aerosol adhesive remover). You can spray it on the tape prior to removal, and the tape will come off easily... no pulling of the hair!
As the ears get closer to being "done", and only the tips curl, you can use Breathe-Right strips. We use Skin Bond surgical glue on the sticky side of the strips, and firmly place them on the inside of the ears - at the tips. They generally stay in for 7-10 days before requiring replacement. That way, you don't need to wrap tape around the ears... only stick the strip to the inside of the ear.
Good luck.... don't give up.
Q: from Deb
Baumer
Date: Friday, March 19, 2004
Time: 10:49 PM
Comments: contract of sale
I would like to see a example contract used when selling a Doberman pup
A: from Judy Doniere, Toledobes, USA
There is really no standard contract done. Every
breeder makes up their own depending on the conditions of sale. Whatever you and
the buyer talk about as a condition of the sale, write it down, make 2
copies...one for you and one for the buyer.
This includes guarantees on health. Whatever you decide you want to do.
Co-ownership, breeding agreements. Whatever. Just talk it over BEFORE you
purchase and together you will come up with a contract you both can live with.
Q:
from Jim
Date: Thursday, March 18, 2004
Time: 5:39 PM
Comments: Other
For a constant companion house dog, does a male
or female make a better pet? Is one gender more territorial, more
aggressive, more affectionate, easily trained, etc. We will have him/her altered
and properly trained...thanks.
A: from
Darlene Young, Darwin Dobermans, USA
If you have a bitch that is spayed you won't have the mess of a season.
Either way both sexes make great house dogs and great family dogs. The main thing is that you do basic training so you know how to teach whichever you get, to behave in the house.
*** *** ***
A: from Susanne Smith, Alpha Dobermans, USA
In my opinion, it depends more on the individual dog. Each one has it's own personality. Some can be more or less independent, some can be more or less active, etc. Although males may test you a bit more during it's adolescent stage, they can be just as wonderful to live with as females. Of course there is a size difference. A good breeder will help you select a puppy that is right for your household and activity level.
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