Our health testing levels for the Irish Terrier
We group breeding programs into three levels based on testing depth. Ask your breeder directly which level they meet.
A breeder at the Great level performs all mandatory tests plus 7 additional clinically recommended screenings that reduce risk in this breed.
In addition to mandatory tests:
Ectropion / Entropion
Augen
These are structural eyelid abnormalities affecting a dog's eyes. In cases of entropion, the eyelid rolls inward, causing the eyelashes or fur to rub painfully against the surface of the eyeball. In ectropion, the eyelid sags or rolls outward, leaving the sensitive inner lining of the eye exposed and unprotected.
Passing: CLEAR
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)(PRA)
Augen
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) is an inherited eye disease that affects the retina, which is the light-sensitive layer of tissue at the back of the eye. In this condition, the specialized cells responsible for detecting light, known as photoreceptors, gradually degenerate and die. Because these cells cannot recover or be replaced, the disease slowly but inevitably leads to complete blindness.
Passing: CLEAR
Retinal Dysplasia(RD)
Augen
Retinal dysplasia is a congenital condition affecting the eyes, where the retina (the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye) does not develop properly during growth in the womb. This abnormal development leads to structural defects like folds or gaps in the retinal layers. Because the retina is responsible for sending visual signals to the brain, these imperfections can impair normal vision.
Augen · Passing: CLEAR
Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma(POAG)
Augen und Sehvermögen
Primary open-angle glaucoma is an inherited eye disease where the natural fluid inside the eye cannot drain properly. This fluid buildup causes a gradual increase in pressure within the eyeball, which eventually damages the optic nerve, the connection between the eye and the brain. Without management, this pressure leads to permanent blindness.
Augen · Passing: CLEAR
Cataract(HC)
Augen und Sehvermögen
A cataract is a progressive clouding of the lens inside the dog's eye, which is the clear structure that focuses light onto the retina at the back of the eye. When the lens becomes cloudy or opaque, it blocks light from entering, gradually impairing the dog's vision. If left untreated, this condition can eventually lead to complete blindness in the affected eye.
Augen · Passing: CLEAR
Duchenne muscular dystrophy(DMD)
Bewegungsapparat
This is a severe, inherited muscle disorder caused by a lack of dystrophin, which is a crucial protein that helps keep muscle cells intact. Without this protein, both the skeletal muscles used for movement and the cardiac muscle of the heart progressively weaken and break down.
DNA · Passing: CLEAR
Urolithiasis
Nieren
Urolithiasis is the formation of mineral stones within the urinary tract, which includes the kidneys, bladder, and connecting tubes. These solid crystal clusters develop when minerals in the urine clump together instead of dissolving. Over time, these stones can irritate the sensitive lining of the urinary system or completely block the flow of urine.
Passing: CLEAR
These levels are a comparison framework, not an official certification. They help compare breeding programs at a glance.