As I have mentioned many times before. If you own a Dobermann start supplementing (CoQ10, Taurine, L-Carnitine, D-Ribose for starters) at low doses starting at 1yr. For a Dobe that has not been diagnosed.
Also again Early Testing!
This was passed on to us by one of our Holistic Vets.
Chattanooga Holistic Animal Institute (CHAI)
You have probably seen the recent FDA update regarding grain-free diets in dogs and heart disease (dilated cardiomyopathy - DCM). Here are some good, thoughtful points about this from a respected colleague (h/t to Dr. Keith Hnilica):
1- The article is not 100% verified due to relatively few affected dogs based on the total dog population.
2 - The grain-free part of the diet may or may not be the actual cause of the heart changes.
3 - The possible lack of enough Taurine is the main concern.
4 - The listed food brands tell more about the commonality and popularity of the brand and not the scientific defectiveness of the brand.
5 - Most of the brands are starting to add and supplement extra Taurine (check your ingredients).
6 - If you want to be sure and safe you can give a Taurine supplement - currently recommended dose is 500mg taurine three times a day for small to medium size dogs, 1000 mg taurine three times a day for large dogs.
7 - If your dog has any symptoms of fatigue or cough or you are concerned, have your veterinarian check them out.
A note from CHAI:
There is blood testing that can be done to check your pets taurine level. There are also multiple, simple and natural ways you can supplement taurine in your pets diet. If you are a client of CHAI and would like to discuss the topic with us, we will be happy to help in any way we can.
As with most information that is put out there for public consumption, please consider your source of information. Sadly many publications sensationalize information into articles that cause panic whether it be out of concern or because it increases their site traffic is not for us to say. Unsubstantiated claims are often made and fingers are pointed long before all of the information is gathered and answers can be obtained. When a claim is made by the FDA, it's assumed by most to have credibility and research behind it. Sadly most of those claims turn into news stories even before they are thoroughly investigated and results can be acquired. Headlines come out about possible issues but then when found to be unsubstantiated the retraction is not news worthy which leaves the public misinformed. It's frustrating for everyone as we all wait to find out the actual truth behind all the hype. Until then, we are happy to be our clients resource to help wade through the good and bad information to allow them to make informed decisions for their pets.