The Secret to Our Success in Preventing Hip and Elbow Dysplasia

At Herzog German Shepherds, we take great pride in the health and well-being of our dogs. One of the most frequent questions we receive from potential clients and fellow breeders alike is how we maintain such a low incidence of hip and elbow dysplasia without regularly conducting OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) or Pennhip evaluations. Out of over 350 dogs we've bred, only five (1.4%) have experienced hip or elbow dysplasia, and only two of those (0.5%) required surgery. Here's an inside look at our approach and the reasons behind our exceptional track record.

Rethinking Conventional Wisdom

First, it's important to address a common misconception: the reliability of OFA and Pennhip evaluations. While these tests are widely accepted in the breeding community, we have found limitations. OFA evaluations can vary significantly depending on the vet conducting the test, leading to inconsistent results. Pennhip is somewhat more reliable but still not foolproof.

The current understanding is that no single gene is responsible for hip dysplasia. Instead, it's polygenetic, meaning that it’s caused by multiple factors. More important, the environment and handling of puppies during their first eight weeks play a pivotal role. This insight has shaped our breeding and puppy-rearing practices.

Our Proven Approach

1. Traction in the Whelping Area:
All puppies are born with perfect hips. However, the surfaces they are exposed to immediately after birth can have a significant impact on their joint health. Puppies kept on slippery surfaces are at a higher risk of developing hip dysplasia. To mitigate this, we ensure our whelping area provides ample traction. This might mean more work for us in terms of cleaning, but the benefits far outweigh the effort.

2. Proper Weight Management:
Keeping our puppies at an optimal weight is another crucial factor. Overweight puppies are more prone to joint issues, including hip dysplasia. Because of this we measure and manage their food intake to maintain a healthy weight according to the Body Mass Indicator.

3. Avoiding Repetitive Movements:
In the first three months, we avoid repetitive movements that could strain a puppy’s joints, such as climbing stairs or jumping from heights. This precaution helps ensure their joints develop healthily and reduces the risk of dysplasia.

Why We Trust Our Methods

While we acknowledge that dogs with a history of hip issues should not be bred, our focus is on creating an environment that promotes healthy development from the start. By concentrating on the factors we can control—such as traction, weight management, and careful handling—we have successfully minimized the incidence of hip and elbow dysplasia in our dogs.

Our approach may differ from conventional practices, but the results speak for themselves. The low rate of joint issues in our German Shepherds is a testament to the effectiveness of our methods. We believe that a combination of good genetics, proper early care, and diligent management is the key to raising healthy, happy dogs.

At Herzog German Shepherds, we are committed to continuing our tradition of excellence and providing families with loyal, healthy companions. Our success in preventing hip and elbow dysplasia is just one of the many ways we strive to ensure the well-being of our beloved dogs.