Dysplasia in the Dogue de Bordeaux, September 1994
Author: Dr. Fontaine Published in: “Club Español de los Molosos de Arena” Date: September 1994 Lecture: Saturday, 6/11/93 Spanish translation: P. Llorca English translation: artificial intelligence The article records a lecture by Dr. Fontaine on dysplasia in the Dogue de Bordeaux. The text addresses hereditary, environmental, nutritional and exercise-related factors that may influence the appearance or worsening of dysplasia. It also explains the importance of radiography, correct positioning of the dog, the first hip-reading statistics in the breed and the need to carry out controls before using dogs for breeding.
By @a.myanimal
Lecture of Saturday 6/11/93 by Dr. Fontaine
The presence of dysplasia in the “large dog” may be due to different factors:
-Hereditary aspect, variable from one breed to another. A certain threshold of genes is necessary for dysplasia to appear. According to the classifications given in the reading of radiographs and known to us, the genetic board is:
A/B x A/B = 80% non-dysplastic + 20% dysplastic
C x C = 50% non-dysplastic + 50% dysplastic, already a lot
A/B x C/D = "
D/E x D/E = 20% non-dysplastic + 80% dysplastic, unthinkable, do not attempt
The ideal would be selection through genetic maps.
-It may result from or be accentuated by environmental factors.
Nutrition is essential. An exaggerated intake of mineral salts, such as CALCIUM, increases the risk of dysplasia. For fast-growing dogs, there is a defined calcium scale.
Researchers have defined a calcium scale necessary for development during growth, Royal Canin, Pal, Eukanuba, etc.; therefore, why add more?
As regards proteins, it is not necessary to go below 14.6%; beyond that, what is given does not change the growth of the dog. On the other hand, the quality of proteins matters greatly; it is fundamental. The optimum protein remains in muscle fiber.
The exercise given to the dog is important
It is necessary to avoid intensive exercise started too early, and also prolonged confinement without exercise or without leaving the kennels.
Detection of dysplasia
The method of detection is radiography; the ideal age is 18 to 24 months. Severe dysplasia can be detected in a 3-month-old puppy, but it cannot be stated that it will have dysplasia later. The detection of future dysplasia must be studied. On the femur, there is an ossification nucleus, difficult to detect with current X-rays.
The absence of this ossification nucleus would detect the problem of future dysplasia. A visible nucleus would prove normal bone development; therefore, there would be no hereditary dysplasia.
Radiography
-Application of the standard to establish the reading certificate.
1.- Identification of the cliché on the film emulsion with:
Name of the dog - Tattoo number - Breed - Date of birth - Date of radiographic taking.
Right or left side - name of the veterinarian.
2.- Positioning:
The Dogue de Bordeaux must be lightly sedated in order to carry out this radiograph. The dog is placed on its back inside a “bell”. The forequarters cannot be completely tense in their musculature; we will be content to do our best to have the femurs parallel to the dorsal line, flexible and not flat, see diagram.
First statistics for hip radiographs in the D. de B. Officially, on 6-11-93, unfortunately only 39 had been read, 5 of which had been rejected because reading was impossible, 13%.
A = no sign of dysplasia 7, 18%
B = almost normal hips 13, 33%
C = mild dysplasia 6, 15%
D = moderate dysplasia 6, 15%
E = severe dysplasia 2, 5%
For the continuity of the breed, in good conditions, and to avoid problems with the law and with the buyers of our dogues, if a dog is “severely dysplastic” one can legally resort to the laws on hereditary defects, and likewise on hidden defects, let us take this problem of dysplasia seriously and strive to obtain dogs as perfect as possible in quality and health. Let us take care to have hip radiographs made of our animals before breeding them, and let us also take care of the nutrition and well-being of our puppies.
Translated from the S.A.D.B. Bulletin for the C.E.M.a by P. Llorca.
Frequently asked questions
What factors contribute to dysplasia in large dog breeds?
Factors include hereditary aspects, environmental influences, nutrition (especially excessive calcium intake), and exercise levels. An exaggerated intake of mineral salts like CALCIUM increases the risk.
What is the ideal age for detecting hip dysplasia through radiography?
The ideal age for radiography to detect hip dysplasia is between 18 to 24 months. While severe dysplasia can sometimes be seen in 3-month-old puppies, future development cannot be definitively predicted at that age.
How is radiography performed for dysplasia detection in Dogue de Bordeaux?
The Dogue de Bordeaux is lightly sedated and placed on its back. The goal is to position the femurs parallel to the dorsal line, ensuring they are flexible and not flat, for accurate imaging.
What were the initial hip radiography statistics for the Dogue de Bordeaux breed in 1993?
As of November 6, 1993, out of 39 hip radiographs read, 5 were rejected. The statistics showed: A (no sign) 7.18%, B (almost normal) 13.33%, C (mild) 6.15%, D (moderate) 6.15%, and E (severe) 2.5%.
Why is it important to control for dysplasia before breeding?
Controlling for dysplasia before breeding is crucial for the continuity and health of the breed. It helps avoid legal issues related to hereditary or hidden defects and ensures healthier puppies for buyers.
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