Year Published:
Dear Reader
This newsletter supports continuing education for breeders. Your friends subscribe here.
Health & Genetics
The following information is intended to raise awareness levels, not to prescribe medical treatment or offer self-diagnosis. Responsible breeders should be aware of these health concerns and try to eliminate them.
The Power of Information
Dreaded diseases Over the past ten years improvements in health have shed light on the “Dreaded Diseases” which are those that cripple, kill, and cause early death or blindness. Bloat is a dreaded disease with a lifetime risk of 24% in large-breed show dogs and 21.6% in giant-breed show dogs. Giant and deep-chested purebred dogs, including German Shepherd Dogs, Great Danes, Collies, Weimaraners, Irish and Gordon Setters, Bloodhounds, Akitas, Saint Bernard’s, Mastiffs, Standard Poodles, Labrador and Golden Retrievers, Doberman Pinchers and Chow Chows are at risk for bloat. In a study involving more than 5,000 breeders some of the risk factors were uncovered. They include: personality, submissive behaviors, fearful or aggressive dogs and more. A decreased risk was found for dogs whose diets were supplemented with eggs or fish. Feeding table scraps had no significant effect on this disorder. The published article may be requested by contacting us. An emergency Bloat Kit is recommended for all owners. Order one here.
Questions about Long-Term Health Risks Associated with Spay/Neuter
A new report unravels the complexities of this subject. More than 50 peer-reviewed papers were examined to assess the health impacts of spay/neuter in dogs. Benefits show that many risks are involved. The article can be found here.
Articles
Articles about the dreaded diseases have been added to this site along with an article about why breeders need three different pedigrees.
Seminars
Making of the Super Dog. A new seminar that incorporates research, technology, pedigree analysis, nutrition and management has been added to our list of seminars.
K9 College Cruise
February 16th - 23rd, 2014 aboard the Celebrity Silhouette. Departs: Ft. Lauderdale, FL. Ports of call: San Juan, St. Kitts, St. Maarten. Eight speakers and over 200 breeders Contact: Katie Markley Phone: 800-979-8687, 717-361-9171. For more information: K9 College Cruise
Choosing the Best Puppy DVD
Over 60% of the best dogs in most breeds are not owned by their breeder. Reason ... lack of breeder skill and knowledge. Order the DVD.
War Dogs Documentary
Narrated by Martin Sheen and depicts an amazing saga of the heroic dogs who served in the Vietnam War. You pay only shipping and postage. Click here.
Keys to Success
There are volumes of information available on most subjects, which is why we believe that “Those who don't read have no advantage over those who can't.”