Oh, and by the way, I think he's cute even with his ears all flopped...but like was said earlier, the ears flip and flop a while in shepherds. Read in the archives with the search on ears, taping, age ranges, etc....I can't remember all those details right off the top, but I do know it's been addressed on the board lots.

Kudos to you for your decision made in the best interest of the dog, not your pocketbook.

I hope he ends up healthy all around for you!

With such large parents, American lines etc, I'd be very concerned about the possibility of the dog developing hip dyplasia (HD). Thankfully, it's only about 30% genetic so there is a lot you can do to avoid it. Ed has resources on the main Leerburg site about HD and there is plenty on this web board too.

Regarding the breathing difficulty, it is my understanding that bronchitis that is not responding to antibiotics is considered chronic. There is no cure and it is difficult to control. It is generally treated with corticosteroids.

There is also the possibility of asthmatic bronchitis. It's treated by attempting to eliminate allergens and giving an anti-histamine.

Did your vet do a cell culture before prescribing antibiotics?

Certainly salmon oil and vitamin e in the diet will help reduce inflammation whether the cause is an infection, a chronic disease or an allergic reaction.

Keeping your dog thin will minimize breathing and joint problems.

I am sure Connie will follow-up with her seemingly endless knowledge and resources, but this is a start from the top of my brain.