Health Guidelines

Comprehensive health guidelines for dog breeders, owners, and handlers. These resources provide essential information for maintaining optimal health throughout a dog's life, from puppyhood through senior years, and for reproductive health during breeding.

Health Categories

Genetic Health Testing Guidelines

Genetic testing is crucial for responsible breeding practices. The following guidelines will help breeders identify and reduce the prevalence of hereditary diseases:

Recommended Genetic Tests by Breed Group

  • Sporting Dogs: Hip and Elbow Dysplasia, Exercise-Induced Collapse (EIC), Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
  • Hounds: Factor VII Deficiency, Thrombopathia, Degenerative Myelopathy
  • Working Dogs: Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM), von Willebrand's Disease, Degenerative Myelopathy
  • Terriers: Primary Lens Luxation (PLL), Late Onset Ataxia, Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis (NCL)
  • Toys: Patellar Luxation, Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease, Tracheal Collapse
  • Non-Sporting: Multidrug Resistance (MDR1), Hyperuricosuria, Cystinuria
  • Herding: Collie Eye Anomaly, Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis, MDR1 Gene Mutation

Testing Protocols

For optimal results, follow these testing protocols:

  1. Test breeding stock before first breeding
  2. Use accredited laboratories for reliable results
  3. Maintain detailed records of all test results
  4. Share results openly with potential puppy buyers
  5. Follow breed-specific testing recommendations

Additional Resources