Hi everyone, I am planning to adopt a Doberman as a new addition to my family. However, before I commit to adopting one, I want to ensure that the dog is healthy and doesn't have any underlying health issues. I've heard that some breeds have specific health problems, and I want to be sure that I am taking all necessary precautions to keep my future pet healthy. Therefore, I am wondering if there are any specific health tests that should be done on a Doberman prior to adoption. Any recommendations or advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank you so much in advance!

Hi everyone, I've been a Doberman owner for about 5 years now, and I can attest to the importance of pre-adoption health testing. When my family and I were searching for a Doberman to adopt, we made sure to ask about the dog's medical history and run a few important health tests prior to adoption.
One important health test that we ran was a thyroid panel. Dobermans are prone to hypothyroidism, which can bring about symptoms such as lethargy, weight gain, and skin/coat problems. Considering that this is a common condition in Dobermans, it is important to run a thyroid panel prior to adoption, so any issue can be treated promptly.
Additionally, we also ran an eye exam to detect any signs of cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy, or other potential eye diseases. These tests allowed us to identify any early signs of eye issues so that we could work with our vet to manage them appropriately.
Lastly, I also believe that testing for liver and kidney health is essential before adopting a Doberman. Dobermans are at an increased risk of developing liver and kidney diseases, which can lead to severe outcomes if left untreated. Therefore, a simple blood test that checks liver and kidney function can go a long way in detecting and addressing any potential health problems.
In summary, pre-adoption health testing can help potential Doberman owners detect any health issues early on and take the necessary steps to care for their furry friend's health throughout their life. To provide the best care for your Doberman, it's essential to work with a qualified vet to ensure that all necessary health tests are conducted before adopting the dog.