Hip Dysplasia - The most common cause of rear end lameness in the dog. Hip dysplasia is a partially inheritable condition. Normal dogs can produce dysplastic offspring. Dysplastic dogs can be asymptomatic. Dysplastic dogs can produce normal offspring. The most certain thing about this condition is, that in its most severe form, it is devastating for both dog and owner.

HD - Hip dysplasia. The German system rates the hips HD frei or minus, HD +/-, HD +, HD ++ and HD +++. All x-rays submitted are given a rating and the rating is recorded with the ADRK. A dog can be bred with ratings HD frei, HD +/- or HD+. HD ++ and HD+++ are not permitted to breed.

ED - Elbow dysplasia. The Germany system also rates elbows as ED frei, ED +/-, ED +, ED++, ED +++.

OFA - One of the organizations evaluating hips and elbows in the US. The ratings for hips are Excellent, Good, Fair or not passing. The elbows are rated as pass or not pass. They are not graded.

GDC - Another organization certifying hips.

CERF - Canine Eye Registration Foundation. This body certifies dogs to be free of congintal eye disease, such as Progressive retinal atrophy. They also collect data to better understand the diseases.

VWD - von Willebrand's Disease. A blood clotting disorder most prevalent in Dobermans, but occasionally seen in Rottweilers. A blood test can reveal the presence of the disorder even in a dog with no symptoms.

Thyroid - dogs may be tested to reveal if the tyroid is functioning properly. Hypothyroidism can lead to poor coat condition, lethargy, obesity and fertility problems. Dogs are give hormone replacement tablets.

Heart - Dogs can suffer from congenital heart disease, the most common cause is developmental defects. This includes aortic stenosis and pulmonary stenosis. If the defect is severe, most dogs will die under one year of age. Heart defects can be hereditary. There is heart screening available.