BOXER HEALTH CONCERNS

Holter Monitor:

A Holter monitor is used for a 24-hour Eelectrocardiogram (EKG) that tests for the presence of Premature Ventricular Contractions (PVCs). This screens for Boxer Arrythmic Cardiomyopathy, and should be done on a yearly schedule. At this time, there are no set number of PVCs that would be considered "affected" with BAC. A zero or low number of PVCs does not mean that the dog is free of Boxer Arrythmic Cardiomyopathy (BAC), it only means that the dog was not exhibiting PVCs during that particular 24-hour period. However, consistent zero/low readings on each year would indicate a higher possibility that the dog is not affected with BAC. Further information can be found at the following URL: http://www.americanboxerclub.org/healthtbc.html

Doppler Echocardiogram:

In order to detect abnormal flow velocities in a Boxer’s heart an ultrasound is used and this allows for the diagnosis and quantification of the severity of Aortic Stenosis. A clear Doppler test results after the dog is 24 months of age is considered conclusive (the dog does not have AS). A number of studies show that Aortic Stenosis is a polygentic (cause by several genes) disease; two clear parents can produce offspring that will be affected. ***All heart testing should be performed by a board-certified veterinary cardiologist***

OFA Hips (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals Inc):

Screening for hip dysplasia is done by taking an X-ray of the pelvic joint. Ratings of "Excellent," "Good," or "Fair" are considered to be free of HD. Only one view is taken, with a number of dogs requiring sedation or anesthetic, but this is not requirement, and submission of results is on a voluntary basis. Although you can have a preliminary test done, the official X-rays must be taken after the dog is 24 months of age. There are a number of other factors that influence the expression of HD, including diet and environment; two clear parents can produce dysplastic puppies.

OFA Thyroid:

Boxers are one breed among many that often suffer from Thyroid problems. Testing for Thyroid problems in Boxers is done through a blood test, in order to detect any possible autoimmune thyroiditis. Testing should be conducted annually for the first 4 years of life to establish a baseline, thereafter, testing every other year should be sufficient to detect any possible problems.

CERF (Canine Eye Registration Foundation):

All Boxers should have their eyes tested to screen for heritable eye diseases such as PRA (Progessive Retinal Atrophy). This testing must be performed by appropriately certified individuals and the results are housed in a national registry. Individual results are kept confidential, but the submission of all results is mandatory. CERF screening should be repeated at yearly inteverals.