Finland's new program to save the Doberman: An interesting choice of outcrosses

The video discusses the growing health crisis facing the Doberman and the efforts to save the breed through a new outcrossing program approved in Finland. Originally developed in 19th-century Germany by Louis Dobermann, the Doberman became renowned for intelligence, loyalty, and protection work. However, decades of breeding within a closed gene pool have severely reduced genetic diversity, leading to widespread inherited diseases. The most serious issue is Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM), a potentially fatal heart condition affecting an estimated 60% of Dobermans. Other health concerns include von Willebrand disease, hypothyroidism, hip dysplasia, and immune disorders. Traditional selective breeding and health screening have not been sufficient because the breed’s genetic diversity is already extremely limited. To address this, the Finnish Kennel Club has approved an outcrossing program using carefully selected breeds such as the Hovawart, Gordon Setter, Finnish Lapponian Herder, and German Shorthaired Pointer. Supporters believe introducing new genetic material offers the best chance to reduce DCM, improve overall health, and ensure the Doberman’s long-term survival, despite concerns that outcrossing may alter some traditional breed characteristics. The Finnish Kennel Club has approved a crossbreeding project for the Doberman. The aim is to improve the breed’s health and genetic diversity https://www.kennelliitto.fi/en/about-... The life of Cassie and friends 🐶 Become a member of Cassie's Crew! 🐶    / @springerswithcassie   👉 Subscribe to Springers with Cassie    / @springerswithcassie   Write Cassie a letter: PO Box 694 CHORLEY, United Kingdom PR6 6RH Cassie's Amazon Wishlist: https://www.amazon.co.uk/hz/wishlist/... 👉 Subscribe to Miss Tillington!    / @misstillington   👉 Subscribe to Michelle Walks    / @michellewalks   👉 Subscribe to Michelle After Dark    / @michelleafterdark