In 1975, we lost our much beloved , out crossed, German import to bloat!. Yes, health issues have been with us for years. Today we hear more about them because of better communication and also, because of the research being done, health issues are much more in the news. 30 years ago I did not know of DM, but I am certain it was there. Carol In a message dated 8/4/2008 11:49:52 A.M. Central Daylight Time, victorysbullseye@xxxxxxxxxxxxx writes: I think the line and close line breeding has hurt our GSDs. I never heard of some of the health issues I hear of today 30 yrs ago. **************Looking for a car that's sporty, fun and fits in your budget? Read reviews on AOL Autos. (http://autos.aol.com/cars-BMW-128-2008/expert-review?ncid=aolaut00050000000017 ) ============================================================================ POST is Copyrighted 2007. All material remains the property of the original author and of GSD Communication, Inc. NO REPRODUCTIONS or FORWARDS of any kind are permitted without prior permission of the original author AND of the Showgsd-l Management. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. ALL PERSONS ARE ON NOTICE THAT THE FORWARDING, REPRODUCTION OR USE IN ANY MANNER OF ANY MATERIAL WHICH APPEARS ON SHOWGSD-L WITHOUT THE EXPRESS PERMISSION OF ALL PARTIES TO THE POST AND THE LIST MANAGEMENT IS EXPRESSLY FORBIDDEN, AND IS A VIOLATION OF LAW. VIOLATORS OF THIS PROHIBITION WILL BE PROSECUTED. For assistance, please contact the List Management at admin@xxxxxxxxxxxx VISIT OUR WEBSITE - www.showgsd.org ============================================================================