|
almatians, like many other breeds, can be prone to certain health issues. Be sure to purchase your Dalmatian from a reputable breeder who guarantees your dog free of health problems and genetic defects.
Breeders that truly care about the future of the breed and the quality of puppies that they produce will try to ensure that each breeding is an attempt to "better the breed" as a whole. This includes ensuring their dogs are genectically good specimens, healthy, have excellent temperaments, and represent the AKC breed standard to the best of their knowledge prior to breeding.
Listed below are some of the health-related terms you should be familiar with.
BAER A responsible Dalmatian breeder will have all dogs/puppies BAER tested (hearing
tested). There appears to be a link between deafness and the pigmentation genes
(piebald or merle genes) responsible for white in the coats in several breeds. Dalmatians
are one of the breeds that can be genetically prone to deafness.
Bladder Stones Dalmatians can be prone to urinary or bladder stones. Diets low in
purines (not low protein) can help prevent and control this condition.
CERF Many breeders will have their dogs CERF tested to ensure that the eyes are free
of any genetic defects. A recently discovered issue in Dalmatians called iris
sphincter dysplasia involves the pupil of the eye. The CERF test will not discover
this irregularity. The eye should be examined before it is dilated to ensure that the
pupil enlarges and contracts properly in darkness and in direct sunlight. Dogs with
this irregularity will most likely squint when out in full sunlight and their eyes may
appear darker due to the enlarged pupil.
OFA Responsible, reputable breeders will have their breeding quality dogs assessed by
the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals to ensure that their dogs are free from hip
displaysia. Elbows may also be assessed.
Allergies Dalmatians can be prone to allergies and allergy related skin conditions.
Epilepsy Dalmatians are showing up with Epileptic seizures. It is a very
traumatic experience for any family to have to go through. Ensure
that the breeder guarantees the health of your new family member.
Thyroid Breeders may test the thyroid level on their dogs.
|
|
