Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What type of health testing do you do with your dogs?

OFA is a certification for hips that are free of hip dysplasia.
CERF is a certification for eyes that are free from congenital and hereditary problems.
vWD is a DNA test that evaluates if a dog is a "hemophiliac"or "bleeder."
Thyroid profile evaluates the dog's ability to maintain normal thyroid levels.
Echocardiogram is an ultrasound to evaluate the condition of the heart.
Holter monitor is a 24-hour ECG that evaluates the heart for arrhythmias.

PDK4 is a genetic test for one mutated gene associated with DCM (Dilated Cardiomyopathy Mutation). It is believed that there is more than one gene associated with Dilated Cardiomyopathy in the Doberman. In humans there are over 100 genes associated with Cardiomyopathy. At this time we have the ability to test for one in Dobermans.  PDK4 is a "regulator of the entrance of glucose into the heart's mitochondria." This is a quote from Dr. Meurs. In layman's terms, it helps regulate the energy in the heart cells. When tested, there are 3 possible results: Negative, Positive Heterozygous, or Positive Homozygous. 

Dr. Meurs has made this information available to the public concerning the results:

Negative Results-the absence of the mutation, does not mean that the dog will never develop Cardiomyopathy. It means that the dog does not have the only known mutation that can cause the disease at this time.

Positive Heterozygous (1 copy of the mutated gene and 1 copy of a normal gene). Dogs that are positive heterozygous should be evaluated for signs of disease (Holter monitor and an echocardiogram). Adult dogs that do not show signs of disease and that have other positive attributes could be bred to mutation negative dogs.

Positive Homozygous (2 copies of the mutated gene). We recommend not breeding the homozygous dogs.

At this point in time, the best way to screen for Cardiomyopathy is to test all dogs using the echocardiogram, holter, PDK4, veterinary recommendations and combine this information with knowledge of each dog's pedigree. To be considered in each breeding decision is the health results and longevity available within the pedigree.

Q: How are your puppies raised?
We raise our puppies in our home. We keep them in a very clean environment with a lot of time spent socializing them. They are socialized with people, children, other dogs and puppies. We crate train them and begin traveling short distances with them as early as 5 weeks of age. We expose them to a variety of situations and stimuli to prepare them for dealing with the stress of competitions later in life. They are temperament tested and have their ears cropped when they are 7 weeks old. They are ready to go to their new homes at 7 and 1/2 weeks old.

Q: What is Schutzhund and why is it important?
There is a wonderful article on Schutzhund on the Western Kentucky Schutzhund Club site.