Our health testing levels for the Curly Coated Retriever
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 5 additional clinically recommended screenings that reduce risk in this breed.
In addition to mandatory tests:
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: CARRIER
Distichiasis
Augen und Sehvermögen
Distichiasis is an eye condition where extra eyelashes grow from the meibomian glands, which are the oil glands along the edge of the eyelid. These abnormal hairs point inward and rub directly against the cornea, the clear outer surface of the eye. This constant friction causes mechanical irritation and can damage the sensitive ocular surface.
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
Exercise Induced Collapse(EIC)
Bewegungsapparat
Exercise Induced Collapse (EIC) is an inherited disorder of the nervous system where the communication between the brain and the muscles temporarily breaks down during intense physical activity or high excitement. This neurological failure prevents the muscles from receiving the signals they need to function properly, causing a sudden loss of motor control. It is inherited in an autosomal-recessive manner, meaning a dog must inherit the mutated gene from both parents to be affected.
DNA · Passing: Clear or Carrier
Glycogen Storage Disease type IIIa (Curly Coated Retriever)(GSD IIIa)
Hormonelles und Stoffwechsel
Glycogen Storage Disease Type IIIa is an inherited metabolic disorder where the body lacks a key enzyme needed to break down glycogen, which is a stored form of sugar used for energy. Without this enzyme, glycogen builds up to harmful levels in the liver and muscle tissues. This accumulation progressively damages these organs and prevents them from functioning properly.
DNA · Passing: Clear or Carrier
These levels are a comparison framework, not an official certification. They help compare breeding programs at a glance.