The Australian Shepherd is a healthy breed compared to many, but is not without hereditary problems. Hip Dysplasia and several different eye defects are the most common problems in the breed.
Hip Dysplasia (HD) is found in all dog breeds and is basically bad development of the hip joints. This disease is not caused by a single pair of genes, but instead is "polygenic". This means many gene pairs determine the condition and development of the hip joints. This has made the disease extremely difficult to understand and to determine the genetic inheritance involved.
It has been found that the incidence of HD can be lessened by careful selection of breeding stock. Australian Shepherd breeders have been leaders in the control of the disease in this breed.
Why is HD such a concern? Lameness varying from slight to very severe crippling can occur, usually between 6 months and 1 year or in the dogs older years. Some dogs never show lameness at all but have the disease. These dogs can run and jump but carry the disease and can pass it on to their offspring.
HD can only be diagnosed with x-rays taken by a competent veterinarian after the dog is past it's second birthday. The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) has for many years served as the diagnostic expert for this disease. X-rays submitted to the OFA are sent to three independent radiologists for a consensus opinion. OFA will not certify a dog free from HD until it is 2 yrs old. Dogs may be x-rayed for a preliminary evaluation earlier than two years, but because of the progressive nature of the disease, OFA will not certify them until 2 years of age.
Most recent statistics from OFA report an incidence of 6.5% of Aussies with HD from 9,712 evaluated. This sounds like a small percentage, but it is about 1 in 15 which would be one in every two litters. This statistic comes from dogs owned by conscientious breeders and owners who use the OFA, and not the general population so this may be deceiving.
To be a conscientious breeder, they will breed only OFA certified individuals and guarantee their pups to be free from HD. Littermates and siblings are also important. An animal diagnosed as having HD should never be bred.
For further information and applications to submit x-rays you can write to the OFA. They also have a booklet available for a minimal donation.
Orthopedic Foundation for Animals
2300 Nifong Blvd.
Columbia, MO 65201
314-442-0418
Visit OFA's websight: "click here"
