When to get x-rays? - Page 1

Hello all!!! I just found this site and have spent hours looking and trying to learn more. I have an 8 month old GSD. We have talked about breeding him when he gets older and our vet did tell us we would need to get the x-rays done and all, but at what age would be the best time to get them done. My husband is not trusting a whole lot in what the vet says and are looking for another who might be more qualified in GSD's. Don't get me wrong, I'm not saying we shouldn't get the x-rays, just saying we don't trust the vet entirely to be knowledgeable of the breed. Would like some advice as to when it should be done to get the best results though.

Thanks in advance,

If you suspect any problems have them X-rayed now for a prelim, but most people wait until the dog is 24 months (2 years old) for permeate set of X-rays to be sent to OFA, You can do PENN Hip earlier and they offer a slightly different form of examination. But are more expensive. Both methods have their pluses and minuses.
Are both parents of the dog Certified for good hips? Do they both have an OFA rating of good or excellent? Do they have any titles of any sort?
I'm the kind of person that works, trains and titles my dog long before i ever consider breeding. And i haven't had a litter in over 10 years.
So if your serious about making more then just pets, it would be nice to see what your dog is capable of training and working wise. There are a lot of really great dog sports available to the public and the bond you get from working with your dog is awesome.
Hopefully you have good solid dog that can excel in what ever you wish to do and then advances the breed with his great genes.
And that all start with a simple X-ray.
Never hurts to call around to find out who is the best vet in the area for X-ray work and who may specialize in shepherds.
Good luck and have fun!
Fry

Here is a thread that was started for vets that give good X-rays.  You want to be sure the vet is experienced in this area.  

http://www.pedigreedatabase.com/forum.read?mnr=740383-ofa-xrays-vets-who-can-do-it-right#741343



 

For any dog I'm planning to train for work or sport and/or possibly breed, I check at 6-7 months and then OFA or a-stamp at 24 months.