Can we breed our Boxer?

Question
Our Boxer was born on May 7, 2003. In late August of 2003 he was diagnosed with Demodectic Mange. He was fine after two months of Clavamox.  Someone asked if we would breed him with their 3year old Boxer. Should we consider it? He has been healthy since. Are the mites proof of a weak immune system that would put his puppies in danger? Or are all dogs carriers? We would love to have one of his pups, but want to make the right decision.

Answer
Hi Nichole,

Demodectic mange is not an inherited condition, but a condition stemming from a suppressed immune system that allows the puppy to be susceptible to these mites. All puppies receive the mites from their mother, but only a few have ineffective immune systems and develop the mange.

This sensitivity can be passed genetically through generations. Individuals that have a history of demodectic mange, and their parents and siblings, should not be bred. Through careful breeding, most cases of this condition could be eliminated.

A dog that had a difficult-to-cure case of generalized demodectic mange, should defiantly not be bred. If your dog had a brief, localized episode and has recovered well, then breeding may be considered. (You didn't say  if your dog's mange was  considered generalized, or localized.)  Whether or not the female dog you're considering breeding your dog to has demodectic mange in her family history would be an important consideration too.

This is something you should talk over with your veterinarian because some believe that any dog that has had this condition should be removed from the gene pool. Your vet is the real expert who's advice you should be seeking.


Best of luck,
Patti