Have just read search material on OCD, a pup we bred has just been diagnosed with OCD, in the shoulder - he was over fed by doting 'parents' and doing agility at 6 months, this pup is an Akita, there is no other history of OCD in the lines, do I now assume I must not breed from his sister ?? - don't mean to sound pompous just the way written words come out -advice appreciated

Lorraine

Hi Lorraine,

My wolfhound recently had both shoulders operated on for OCD and this is the advice sheet I got from the specialist vet who did the surgery:-

Your dog has been diagnosed as having OCD of the shoulder (a developmental abnormality of this joint). This condition is widely accepted to be highly hereditary with a strong genetic basis.

Your dog's parents therefore have passed the genes to your animal either the mother or father or perhaps both. To prevent this condition being perpetuated down generations most Veterinary Surgeons are in agreement that all breeders should take the following precautions.

Do not breed from the affected dog.

Do not breed from the affected dog's siblings.

Do not breed from the affected dog's mother or father.

Do not breed from any progeny the affected dog may already have produced.

These recommendations are far reaching but if a stance is not taken this extrememly serious condition will continue to cause problems in the canine population.

We always advise clients to contact the breeder of their dog so that they can be informed of the situation to enable them to make the appropriate steps for the future.

Thanks Sharon