Why US?      Why Now?     Why Dobermans?

Like many nonprofit organizations DPHF started as a result of tragedy.
Ch Montwood Arista's Texas Hold'Em "Tex" suffered a fatal cardiac event at an agility trial sponsored by Mount Hood Doberman Pinscher Club. The subsequent outpouring of support was incredible with over $10,000 raised in just five weeks. The donations were used to fund research into Doberman Pinscher dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM).

Shortly thereafter, the researchers at North Carolina State University announced that a second genetic marker for DCM had been identified and the money raised in Tex's honor was instrumental in completing the research. As a result, the founding Directors were inspired to action and formed the DPHF.

All dogs - all breeds and mixed breeds - experience certain genetic health issues, the founders came together with a joint determination to address the subset of genetic conditions affecting the Doberman breed.

Additionally, in recognition of the fact that AKC parent breed clubs were formed for the purpose of advancing conformation dog shows toward the ultimate goal of identifying optimal breeding stock, it is clear that they are not necessarily equipped with the financial ability to support the level of canine health research necessary and now, increasingly possible, in today's world of groundbreaking genetic research.

The question of whether we can manage to find answers, to make substantive discoveries regarding canine breed diseases has been largely eclipsed by recent technological advancements in genetic research capabilities. We find ourselves now in a world where the challenging question is not "can we discover the answers?" but rather "can we find the funds with which to pursue the research to do so?"

In order to proactively support genetic research of Doberman health conditions in real time in this "new scientific world", another entity is needed which is solely devoted to raising funds for Doberman health research, building and maintaining collaborative relationships with genetic researchers, and educating the Doberman and canine communities about these efforts as they move forward.

The Officers and Directors of the Foundation share a common aim for all Dobermans - the health and longevity of the breed - and work for the Foundation on a strictly voluntary basis.