Topic 2:
Aren't Dalmatians prone to deafness?

Years ago when there was indiscriminate breeding, many deaf Dalmatians were produced.  However, with responsible breeding, this has become less of a problem than previously.  I did meet a deaf Dalmatian years ago which had done very well, was in a wonderful home and had learned hand commands.  Unfortunately, many of the deaf Dalmatians did not have such wonderful homes.  Both JR and Daisy have had their hearing tested as pups.  All the pups in this litter will be tested for deafness.  Both JR and Daisy's bloodlines have not had issues with deafness, so I do not expect to have a problem.   The hearing test is done by a specially qualified Vet and certifications are issued for the pups tested.  It is called the BAER hearing test.  You may check on line at the OFA web site where testing completed with the results are listed.

Next: Topic 3
Why are hips xrayed prior to breeding?




Daisy at birth, they really are white!

Hi All!
Daisy gave my a scare!  I didn't expect her to continue to bleeding following her mating.  But, turns out, females finish their heat cycle even if they mated.   So I have a few more days to go til she's out of heat.  JR was so strung up he kept her clean and I saw very little blood this heat.  Once he got his head back on, he stopped, so that's how I noticed bleeding.  I must say, JR is such a lover boy and I missed his snuggling while he was so wild for Daisy!

For those interested, both mom and dad will be on the premises when you come to see the pups.  JR joined our family as a 3 year old last year and he and Daisy have been inseparable since!  I did a bunch of genetic testing on both of them so I know quite a bit about the litter already which I will share with you as I blab along...

Topic 1.  Both Daisy and JR each have 1 low uric acid gene.  What that means is each pup has a 75% chance of getting at least 1 and a 25 % chance at getting 2 low uric acid genes.  The benefit of at least 1 low uric acid gene is that the pup will not suffer from forming uric acid stones in the bladder which, over the years, has caused a lot of disease among the breed.  Back in 1973 a geneticist did 1 outcross with an English pointer who had 2 normal genes.  All the subsequent pups recieved 1 gene and then he carefully breed the gene back into the Dalmatian population.  It was only recently that the AKC allowed the Dalmatians with this gene back into "the club".   They were allowed in the United Kennel Club and were widely shown with wonderful results and inumerable wins.  I beleive Daisy is 7th generation from the original out cross and JR is 9th generation.  JR is a full UKC champion.  I have considered showing him in AKC, but the pups are my first project.   Daisy spots weren't quite right for showing, but since she had the normal gene, I felt improving health was a big priority to me and she is the most gorgeous gal in my eyes!  Both she and JR are members of both the AKC and UKC.
To find out more about this incredible project you can google "LUA Dalmatian Project" and learn more!

The downside to knowing that Daisy and JR each have 1 gene is the 25% possibility of each pup receiving 2 High Uric Acid genes and will therefore not have that health benefit.


All pups in this litter will be DNA tested for the prescence or absence of these genes.

I will continue on Topic 2, Aren't Dalmatians deaf? in my next blog.  (and I am tired from typing, it's been a long day!)


Daisy and JR lounging!

 Sweet dreams JR!

 Visions of sugar plums dance in her head!

Good night!

Day # 3 Successful!  Wonder how long they will keep at it now the job is done.  I am exhausted from lack of sleep.

Puppies due around 5/1/13!!!!

Daisy and JR's second tie!  I am so tired!  It is true that the males are crazy when a female is in heat.   Didn't get a wink of sleep last night, neither did JR, don't know how he's doing it, I'm exhausted!

Daisy and JR tied with no help from anyone!.  It was  a wonderful spring day outside and they spent most of the day chasing each other.  JR found the right spot and while I did not witness the act, I witnessed the tie which lasted an additional 20 minutes after I had found them!.  JR and Daisy are currently enjoying their chicken, eggs, broth, and crunchies separately, although JR would prefer otherwise!  He isn't very interested in his gourmet dinner tonight!

Anticipate Daisy will be ready for mating in another day or two based on the color of heat changing and JR becoming more interested.

This picture is of Daisy when she came home at 7 weeks of age!  She is now 4 years old! How time flies...   Jr is also 4, but a month younger and has his Championship through the United Kennel Club!


I think Daisy is ready!  JR tried twice, but was easily distracted.  Hopefully tomorrow or Sunday!  Stay tuned! 

JR and Daisy just got a clean bill of health from their vet check!   JR IS still very attentive to Daisy and I've had no diapers to wash this heat!  Vet anticipates that Dasiy will be ready for mating this Sunday or early this week!  Can't wait!

It was love at first site!

Both Daisy and JR each have 1 LUA gene.  We are hoping for a few homozygous (2 normal LUA genes) pups.  It is very exciting to be part of this wonderful project to hopefully improve the breed, thanks Barb for getting me hooked into it!

Meet Daisy and JR!

Meet the beautiful couple:

Miss Daisy

 

 

 

 

 

JR


Christmas Time

Daisy went into heat 2 days ago.  JR has been very attentive to her, keeping her clean and all.  Don't need any diapers with this heat!  Have an appt with the Vet on Wednesday for general overall check.