health information

Many health concerns have come to light with this new breed. Among these are, hereditary cataracts, Hip Dysplasia, Von Willebrands disease, (vWD) a bleeding disorder, some Epilepsy, and some cases of mysterious heart deaths at a young age.

The widely accepted radiology exam of the hip joints, through the OFA, for Hip Dysplasia, is recommended. This exam can be done any time after the dogs reaches the age of two. A new procedure, Pennhip, is gaining wide acceptance as another good indicator of hip joint health. This can be done at any age.  Hips are a problem in this breed, so testing of several generations, as well as many family members as possible is preferred.

Another pressing problem is cataracts, with a  percentage of the breed showing problems by the age of four. Annual CERF testing should be a requirement of all German Pinschers producing puppies. As cataracts can be an evolving problem in each dog, the CERF exam, is only valid for one year. Pets should be checked every two to three years for your peace of mind.

Today, with the availability of the DNA marker tests, we can now predict the incidence of vWD disease within the German Pinscher population and breed accordingly. This is a one-time test, and can be done at home, at any age. Through testing and prudent breeding, this problem can be eradicated in this breed. The results can return clear, carrier, or affected.

Epilepsy has been diagnosed in some German Pinschers. Several studies are underway, in an attempt to find the DNA marker (gene) that causes this inheritable disease. Lifetime management of seizures is needed and sometimes death can occur.

The incidence of “heart problems” has been well documented in breeds closely related to the German Pinscher, Doberman Pinschers, and Standards Schnauzers. A few undocumented cases have been reported in German Pinschers, but much work has to be done through testing to determine whether this is a problem, and it's overall incidence determined in this breed.

Thyroid dysfunction is the most widely documented health problem among all breeds, so testing once for clearance is recommended, and of course, if any symptoms arise that make this a suspicion.

To view Nevar test results click Health Results. 

 To view information on PennHip vs OFA click here