As Doberman owners, we are sadly aware that our breed does not enjoy, on the average, great longevity. While there are notable exceptions, research has shown that currently, the average life span of a Doberman Pinscher is just over 9 years of age.

The "Big 3" are the most common killers of our dogs: dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), cancer, and Cervical Vertebral Instability (CVI or "wobblers"). Recently, there is research to suggest an increase in deaths due to Chronic Active Hepatitis (CAH). The Doberman Pinscher Club of America donates regularly to fund research grants for these and other Doberman-specific diseases. PTSDPC also donates regularly to help fund research.

PTSDPC has purchased a canine cardiac Holter monitor which provides a 24-hour, non-invasive test for cardiac arrhythmias, the leading cause of "sudden death." The monitor is available to members and non-members for a nominal fee to cover costs. Click here to read the guidelines for use of PTSDPC's Holter Monitor.

More in depth information regarding health issues may be found on the following sites:


http://www.dpca.org/PublicEd/PEC/PECGenetic.html
Doberman-specific health information from the official DPCA website.

http://www.akcchf.org/research/newsletters.cfm
general canine health information from AKC' Canine Health Foundation.