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We got our 2 dogs from different breeders but our dogs are somewhat related. Many breeders in Canada are "connected" to each other and exchange their kennel dogs for breeding purposes. Of the 2 kennels, I would have said Shady had the best chance for good health as her father was imported from Netherlands but alas, it was she who ended up with the OCD. It was actually injuries though (torn ACL joints) that needed surgery. Do check out the breeding lines of your breeder and also their reputation. An excellent source of info can be found at the BMDCC website along with a list of breeders who are committed to the health and longivity of the breed. Don't walk your pup too much and don't feed your pup "puppy" kibble - it is too high in protein and can contribute to joint problems if they grow too quickly. Also, keep your pup's weight down by not feeding too many treats. Too much weight is also very hard on their joints. Free play is better for the puppy with a 10 or 15 min walk twice a day more than sufficient. Once they are 6 - 12 mo you can slowly build up their walking time until they are happily coming along on long hikes in the woods by age 2.
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