One other note about chest 'dropping' (and why did dog people start using that term - it sort of conjurs up visions of dog parts falling off in the yard) One the the biggest problems in basenjis fronts right now is those that are too narrow and have a concave area between the front legs. I'm NOT advocating a front like a bull terrier but there needs to be some 'fill' there to have a good front but it's not the fill it is the actual structure of the bones in the shoulder and upper arm that - if not correct- actally pull the 'front' too far forward. A quick visual scan from the side - if the deepest part of the brisket is well behind the legs - the front is too far forward. We need to pay attention to the actual shoulder structure to make sure we are not continuing to double up on dogs with a short upper arm. That limits front reach, and creates a not efficient side gait. So go catch your dogs and do a quick check - measure from the top of the wither to the point of shoulder (the most prominant bone in the chest.) then from that point to the point of the elbow. They should be the same. if they are not - stand up your dog and put your hand between the front legs - if you hand is IN FRONT OF THE FRONT LEGS - great - if your hand is between the front legs the front on your dog is too far foward.
More than you ever wanted to know probably - LOL
Puppy's Parents
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Ok, im getting a male brindle puppy in few weeks. Ive researched both the parents for Fanconi testing. Both have test results posted on the OFA site that say "PROBABLY CLEAR/NORMAL FOR FANCONI SYNDROME".
So does the puppy still need to be tested and at what age? Ive read different articles regarding the age they should be tested at.
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Technically, no, the pup should be clear as well. but it is always nice to do the test with the blood sample anyway as it can potentially be used to help with a more precise testing procedure. If you decide to do the cheek swab test, you can do that really young, but I would say wait until about 4-6 months to do the blood test.
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If both parents tested clear, the puppy should be clear/normal. Unless for some reason you really feel the need to, you shouldn't have to test the pup.
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Great. thanks for the info.
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Ok, im getting a male brindle puppy in few weeks. Ive researched both the parents for Fanconi testing. Both have test results posted on the OFA site that say "PROBABLY CLEAR/NORMAL FOR FANCONI SYNDROME".
So does the puppy still need to be tested and at what age? Ive read different articles regarding the age they should be tested at.
With a clear/normal on both the sire and dam you do not have to test, however there is no "clear" by parents, so it would not hurt to have the test done. And it adds data to the Fanconi testing database. They can be tested using Cheek Swab at any age, the Swabs and test is 65.00 (IMO-well worth the price). You can find the details at www.basenjishealth.org
Articles that you might have read about testing are most likely doing the sugar test stripping monthly starting at around 2 to 3yrs old. Before the DNA test that was the only way to know if your Basenji had Fanconi is after they started spilling sugar in their urine.
Kudos for you on doing your homework!!!!
We look forward to pictures….
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personally, i would definately test your pup if you're planning on breeding him. having worked in a lab for years, i know human error does occur, however, since both parents are clear, i'd be comfortable that the pup you get won't have fanconi. if you're not looking to breed, i'd say the test is optional unless your breeder wants more points in the data base. (it's not very expensive, $65 i think) of course that's just my 2 pennies worth.
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I dont plan on breeding him, but i will get him tested just for peace of mind.
Ill have some pics soon. Thanks again.
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Good job for doing your homework before you bought and fell in love with a basenji companion
