Breeds to Buy Only From a Health-Testing Breeder
These breeds can be healthy — but only when the breeder tests thoroughly. Which tests they need, and what to demand before you buy.
Key takeaways
For these breeds, the breeder decides the health outcome. With thorough testing of the parents, healthy puppies are very achievable; without it, the risk rises sharply.
- These breeds have several important, often club-mandated health tests.
- Only buy if both parents have passed the breed-typical tests.
- Ask to see the results in writing — not just verbal assurances.
What to demand from the breeder
A responsible breeder shows you this proof without being asked:
- Health results for both parents (hips, elbows, eyes, breed-typical DNA tests).
- Current results from recognized bodies, not just self-reported claims.
- Openness about the known risks of the breed and the line.
Breeds with the most core tests (level 1)
- 1MudiC18 core tests1 recommended
In the Mudi, breed-typical risks exist for the musculoskeletal system as well as for severe eye conditions, such as hip dysplasia (HD), elbow dysplasia (ED), cataracts, and primary lens luxation (PLL). A responsible breeder therefore has their breeding dogs comprehensively examined orthopedically and ophthalmologically in advance to rule out hereditary defects at an early stage. When buying a puppy, make sure that both parents are proven free of primary lens luxation (PLL) and cataracts, and show first-class joint results (ED 0 and HD A–C). In addition, genetic tests for brachyury (NBT) or coat color (Merle) should be available, ensuring that carrier animals are mated exclusively with clear partners.
- 215 core tests1 recommended1 exemplary
In the Schapendoes, hereditary eye diseases and joint issues are the primary concern: risks exist particularly for Generalized Progressive Retinal Atrophy (Schapendoes), primary lens luxation (PLL), cataract, as well as hip dysplasia (HD) and elbow dysplasia (ED). The Interessengemeinschaft Schapendoes e.V. (IGS) mandates testing for Generalized Progressive Retinal Atrophy (Schapendoes) as a breeding requirement, under which parent animals must be clear, or carriers may only be mated with a clear partner. Responsible breeders additionally have the joints and eyes examined comprehensively to avoid severe malformations and blindness. Before buying, have the breeder show you the certificates for HD (maximum HD A–B), ED (ED 0), as well as ophthalmological results proving freedom from cataract, retinal dysplasia, and primary lens luxation (PLL).
- 3PumiC15 core tests2 recommended
In the Pumi, breed-specific risks primarily involve hip dysplasia (HD), degenerative myelopathy (DM), and various eye diseases such as primary lens luxation (PLL), cataracts, or primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG). A health-oriented breeder therefore has their breeding dogs comprehensively examined orthopedically, ophthalmologically, and genetically before mating. Before buying a puppy, you should ask to see official results for hips (HD A–B) and patella luxation (PL 0–1, with PL 1 only allowed to be mated with PL 0). In addition, ensure there is a genetic test for degenerative myelopathy, where a parent may only be a carrier if the partner is proven to be clear, as well as an up-to-date ophthalmological eye exam (ECVO).
- 415 core tests1 recommended
In the Kishu, there are relevant risks for eye diseases such as primary lens luxation (PLL), cataract, and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), as well as hip dysplasia (HD). The Deutscher Club für Nordische Hunde e.V. (DCNH) therefore prescribes an ophthalmological eye examination (ECVO) for breeding approval. Responsible breeders additionally have the parent animals x-rayed for hip dysplasia, have the dentition checked via a tooth and bite assessment, and have the knees examined for patellar luxation (PL). Before buying a puppy, ask to be shown the ophthalmological findings with the result clear, an HD score of HD A–C, and ideally a PL 0 finding.
- 514 core tests4 recommended1 exemplary
In the Lapinporokoira, the health risks are primarily defined by eye diseases such as progressive rod-cone degeneration (PRA-prcd), cataracts, and primary lens luxation (PLL), as well as hip dysplasia (HD). For breeding approval in the Deutscher Club für Nordische Hunde e.V. (DCNH), a genetic test for PRA-prcd is mandatory. Responsible breeders additionally screen their dogs comprehensively for eye diseases such as pectinate ligament dysplasia (PLD) and have their hips X-rayed. Before purchasing, have them show you the PRA-prcd genetic test result, clear eye examination results, and an HD score of HD A–C, noting that a parent dog with HD C may only be mated with an HD A partner.
- 614 core tests4 recommended
In the Shikoku, there are several breed-typical problems, in particular severe eye diseases such as primary lens luxation (PLL), primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG), and progressive retinal atrophy, but also hip dysplasia (HD). A responsible breeder therefore has their breeding dogs comprehensively examined ophthalmologically and orthopedically to reduce the risk of hereditary diseases. Before buying, ask to see a hip evaluation with a result of HD A–B, clear results for primary lens luxation (PLL) and primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG), as well as proof that in the case of progressive retinal atrophy, carriers are only mated with clear partners.
- 7PuliC14 core tests3 recommended
In the Puli, there are breed-specific risks for severe eye diseases such as primary lens luxation (PLL), cataracts, and progressive retinal atrophy, as well as for the neurological condition degenerative myelopathy and orthopedic problems such as hip dysplasia (HD). A responsible breeder therefore has the parent animals undergo comprehensive ophthalmological and genetic testing as well as joint X-rays. Before buying a puppy, ask to see veterinary certificates proving that both parents are free of primary lens luxation (PLL) and cataracts, have a patellar luxation (PL) score of at most PL 0–1, and achieve a maximum of HD A–B for hip dysplasia (HD). For degenerative myelopathy, carriers must only be mated with demonstrably clear partners.
- 814 core tests2 recommended
In the East Siberian Laika, health risks primarily involve joint disorders such as hip dysplasia (HD) as well as various eye diseases, including primary lens luxation (PLL), cataract, and progressive retinal atrophy. For breeding approval, the Deutscher Club für Nordische Hunde e.V. (DCNH) mandatorily prescribes radiographic screening for hip dysplasia (HD) as well as an ophthalmological eye examination. Responsible breeders additionally test parent animals for degenerative myelopathy and specific eye conditions such as primary open-angle glaucoma. Before buying a puppy, have the breeder show you the official test results for hip dysplasia (HD) – maximum HD C, provided the mate is HD A or B – and proof of a current ophthalmological eye exam with the status 'clear'.
- 914 core tests1 recommended1 exemplary
In the Swedish Lapphund, focus is primarily placed on eye conditions and the musculoskeletal system: alongside Progressive Retinal Atrophy (prcd-PRA), cataracts, Primary Lens Luxation (PLL), and Hip Dysplasia (HD) also occur. The Deutscher Club für Nordische Hunde e.V. (DCNH) mandates a genetic test for Progressive Retinal Atrophy (prcd-PRA) for breeding clearance, whereby carriers may only be mated with clear partners. In addition, a health-oriented breeder will have the parent animals tested for Hip Dysplasia (HD) and conduct a comprehensive eye examination for cataracts and Primary Lens Luxation (PLL). Ask to see the corresponding results for the parent animals before purchasing a puppy – for Hip Dysplasia (HD), the result should be HD A–B.
- 1014 core tests1 recommended
In the Dutch Shepherd (Rough-haired), there are risks of joint and skeletal diseases as well as neurological disorders such as degenerative myelopathy and spongy degeneration with cerebellar ataxia 2 (SDCA2). The Dutch Shepherd Club Germany (Holländische Schäferhund Club Deutschland e.V., HSCD) therefore mandatorily prescribes X-ray examinations for hip dysplasia (HD A–B), elbow dysplasia (ED 0–1), and lumbosacral transitional vertebrae (LTV, finding LÜW 0). A health-oriented breeder also genetically tests parent animals for degenerative myelopathy and spongy degeneration with cerebellar ataxia 2 (SDCA2), where carriers may only be mated with clear partners, and checks for primary open-angle glaucoma and progressive retinal atrophy. Insist on being presented with the complete official breeding values and genetic results of both parents.
- 1114 core tests1 recommended
In the Black Norwegian Elkhound, breed-specific risks include hip dysplasia (HD), spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA), and eye diseases such as primary lens luxation (PLL), cataracts, and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). A health-conscious breeder therefore has their breeding dogs comprehensively X-rayed, genetically tested, and ophthalmologically examined beforehand. Ask to see the official findings: both parents should be clear of primary lens luxation (PLL), have at most HD C, and regarding spinocerebellar ataxia, a carrier may only be mated with a clear partner. In addition, look for an up-to-date ophthalmological eye examination (ECVO) confirming that the parents are clear.
- 1214 core tests
In the Dutch Shepherd (Long-haired), breed-specific risks for neurological and orthopedic conditions occur, such as Degenerative Myelopathy, Spongy Degeneration with Cerebellar Ataxia 2 (SDCA2), and Hip Dysplasia (HD). The Dutch Shepherd Club Germany (Holländische Schäferhund Club Deutschland e.V., HSCD) therefore mandates breeding examinations for HD, Elbow Dysplasia (ED), Lumbosacral Transitional Vertebra (LTV), Degenerative Myelopathy, and SDCA2. A health-focused breeder additionally tests for eye and hereditary diseases such as Progressive Retinal Atrophy or Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma. Ask to see the parents' official X-ray and genetic test results before buying a puppy; for hereditary diseases, carriers may only be mated if the breeding partner is verifiably free.
- 1313 core tests12 recommended13 exemplary
In the Labrador Retriever, there are substantial breed-specific risks for joint diseases such as hip dysplasia (HD) and elbow dysplasia (ED), for exercise-induced collapse (EIC), as well as for eye diseases such as cataracts and progressive rod-cone degeneration (PRA-prcd). The Labrador Club Deutschland e.V. therefore mandatorily prescribes X-ray findings for HD and ED, an ophthalmological eye examination with a clear result for cataracts and retinal dysplasia (RD), as well as genetic tests for EIC, hereditary nasal parakeratosis (HNPK), progressive retinal atrophy, and PRA-prcd. A health-oriented breeder additionally tests their breeding animals for skeletal dysplasia 2 (SD2) and degenerative myelopathy. Before buying a puppy, have them show you the official X-ray results with at most HD C (only under restrictions) and ED 0–1, and make sure that carriers of EIC, HNPK, progressive retinal atrophy, or PRA-prcd are only mated with clear partners.
- 1413 core tests4 recommended2 exemplary
In the Akita, hip dysplasia (HD), hereditary eye diseases such as cataracts and primary lens luxation (PLL), and the skin disease sebaceous adenitis (SA) are the primary breed-specific health risks. The Deutscher Club für Nordische Hunde e.V. (DCNH) mandates an X-ray examination for hip dysplasia for breeding; only dogs with HD A to C are permitted (C only with restrictions). Responsible breeders additionally have an ophthalmological eye examination (ECVO) performed to reduce the risk of cataracts or lens luxation, and test for amelogenesis imperfecta (enamel hypoplasia), where carriers are only mated with clear partners. Before purchasing, insist on seeing the parents' official HD results and clear eye examination certificates.
- 1513 core tests4 recommended
In the Komondor, there are breed-typical risks of hip dysplasia (HD) as well as various eye diseases such as cataracts, primary lens luxation (PLL), and progressive retinal atrophy. A health-oriented breeder therefore has their breeding animals thoroughly examined orthopedically and ophthalmologically before mating. Before buying a puppy, ask to see proof of a hip dysplasia (HD) rating of at most HD C, as well as test results confirming freedom from cataracts, primary lens luxation (PLL), and progressive retinal atrophy. Conscientious breeders also test for degenerative myelopathy and only mate carriers with dogs proven to be clear.
- 1613 core tests3 recommended1 exemplary
In the Västgötaspets, breed-specific risks exist for hip dysplasia (HD) as well as various eye diseases such as primary lens luxation (PLL), cataracts, and progressive retinal atrophy. A health-oriented breeder therefore has their breeding dogs comprehensively examined orthopedically and ophthalmologically before use to prevent severe malformations and visual impairments. When buying a puppy, make sure that both parents are proven to be free of primary lens luxation (PLL) and can show hip evaluation results of HD A–B. For progressive retinal atrophy or hyperuricosuria (HUU), a carrier status is only acceptable if the mating partner has tested genetically clear.
- 1713 core tests2 recommended
In the Hokkaido, hereditary eye diseases play a central role, including primary lens luxation (PLL), progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, and hip dysplasia (HD). For breeding approval, the Deutscher Club für Nordische Hunde e.V. (DCNH) mandates an ophthalmological eye examination for ocular problems with the threshold value 'clear'. Responsible breeders additionally screen their dogs for hip dysplasia (HD) with a result of HD A–C, as well as for patellar luxation (PL). Before buying a puppy, ask to see the official test results of the parent animals: a completely clear eye exam, unobjectionable HD results, and, in the case of a test for Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA), proof that a carrier was bred exclusively to a clear mate.
- 1813 core tests2 recommended
In the Norwegian Elkhound (grey), there are breed-specific risks of hip dysplasia (HD) and various eye diseases such as primary lens luxation (PLL), primary open-angle glaucoma, and cataracts. A health-oriented breeder therefore has their breeding stock comprehensively examined for orthopedic and ophthalmological issues. Have the official certificates for HD (cutoff HD A–C) presented to you, as well as test results confirming that both parents are free of PLL, glaucoma, and cataracts. Genetic testing for progressive retinal atrophy and cerebellar ataxia (CA1) is also part of this – here, one parent may be a carrier, provided the other breeding partner is clear.
- 1913 core tests1 exemplary
With the Greenland Dog, you need to pay special attention to the musculoskeletal system and hereditary eye diseases: hip dysplasia (HD), cataracts, and primary lens luxation (PLL) are among the relevant risks for the breed. Responsible breeders have their animals thoroughly examined for joint problems and eye damage before mating. Before buying a puppy, ask to see the official test results of the parent animals: for hip dysplasia (HD), the result should be at most HD A–C, and for cataracts as well as lens luxation (PLL), the status must be documented as clear.
- 2013 core tests1 exemplary
In the Jämthund, health risks primarily involve hip dysplasia (HD) and various eye diseases such as cataracts, pectinate ligament dysplasia (PLD), or primary lens luxation (PLL). The Deutscher Club für Nordische Hunde e.V. (DCNH) mandates screening for hip dysplasia (HD) with a cut-off value of HD A–C (C only mated with A/B) and an ophthalmological eye examination for breeding. In addition, responsible breeders test the parent animals in detail for findings such as progressive retinal atrophy or retinal dysplasia. Before buying a puppy, make sure to see all official certificates confirming hip health and recent, clear eye examination results without exception.
- 2113 core tests1 recommended
In the Karelian Bear Dog, breed-specific risks exist for hip dysplasia (HD) as well as various eye diseases such as cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy, and primary lens luxation (PLL). A health-oriented breeder therefore has their breeding stock comprehensively examined orthopedically and ophthalmologically to prevent severe deformities and vision loss. When buying a puppy, consistently insist on documentation for both parents: demand an official evaluation for hip dysplasia (HD) with a result of HD A–B. In addition, you should ask to see written reports confirming that both parents are clear of primary lens luxation (PLL), Collie eye anomaly (CEA), and progressive retinal atrophy.
- 2213 core tests1 exemplary
In the Kintamani-Bali Dog, health risks primarily include hip dysplasia (HD) as well as hereditary eye diseases such as primary lens luxation (PLL), cataracts, and progressive retinal atrophy. The Deutscher Club für Nordische Hunde e.V. (DCNH) mandates screening for HD with a limit of HD A–C (C only bred to A or B) as well as an ophthalmological eye exam. Responsible breeders additionally screen for specific eye conditions such as primary lens luxation (PLL), cataracts, or progressive retinal atrophy, where a carrier may only be bred to a clear partner. Before buying, have the breeder show you the official HD results and current ophthalmological examination reports for both parent animals.
- 2313 core tests1 recommended
In the Taiwan Dog, breed-typical risks exist for hip dysplasia (HD) as well as various eye diseases such as primary lens luxation (PLL), cataract, and progressive retinal atrophy. A responsible breeder therefore has their breeding dogs specifically screened for the musculoskeletal system and hereditary eye diseases to prevent severe late consequences in the offspring. Before buying a puppy, ask to see the official findings of the parent animals: For hip dysplasia (HD), scores should be HD A–C, and both parents should be free of primary lens luxation (PLL), cataract, and other eye defects. In addition, ask for an examination for patellar luxation (PL) with a result of PL 0–1.
- 2412 core tests12 recommended1 exemplary
In the Golden Retriever, breed-specific risks exist for hereditary eye diseases such as cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy, as well as hip dysplasia (HD) and elbow dysplasia (ED). The Golden Retriever Club e.V. (GRC) mandates an ophthalmological eye examination (ECVO) for breeding, along with tests for cataracts, retinal dysplasia (RD), and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). The Deutscher Retriever Club e.V. (DRC) requires genetic tests for Progressive Retinal Atrophy 1 (GR-PRA1) and 2 (PRA-GR2), Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis 5 (NCL5), and Progressive Rod-Cone Degeneration (PRA-prcd); in these genetic tests and for PRA, carriers are only mated with clear partners. A responsible breeder also has the parent animals examined for HD (HD A–C, C only with restrictions), ED (ED 0–1), and aortic stenosis (AS). Make sure to have all of these official reports and test results presented to you in full before buying a puppy.
- 2512 core tests5 recommended3 exemplary
In the Parson Russell Terrier, there are breed-typical risks for severe neurological diseases such as spinocerebellar ataxia and late-onset spinocerebellar ataxia (CAPN1), as well as primary lens luxation (PLL) and patellar luxation (PL). The Parson Russell Terrier Club Deutschland e.V. (PRTCD) mandates tests for these diseases as well as examinations for hereditary cataract and progressive retinal atrophy for breeding. A health-oriented breeder additionally checks the eyes for primary open-angle glaucoma and retinal dysplasia. Have the official breeding test results of both parents shown to you: patellar luxation (PL) must be graded as PL 0, and for primary lens luxation (PLL), a carrier may only be mated with a clear partner.
- 2612 core tests2 recommended1 exemplary
In the Icelandic Sheepdog, health risks primarily concern the joints and eyes, especially hip dysplasia (HD), cataracts, and primary lens luxation (PLL). A health-oriented breeder therefore has their breeding dogs comprehensively examined to systematically rule out hereditary eye diseases such as progressive retinal atrophy and pectinate ligament dysplasia (PLD). When buying a puppy, pay specific attention to the certificates: ask to see proof for both parents of a hip dysplasia (HD) grade of A to C and proof of PL 0 for patellar luxation (PL). You should also insist on official eye screening results confirming that both parents are free from primary lens luxation (PLL), distichiasis, and corneal dystrophy.
- 2712 core tests
In the Leonberger, size and genetic predispositions carry significant risks for hip dysplasia (HD), elbow dysplasia (ED), and severe neurological disorders such as polyneuropathy 1, polyneuropathy 2, and leukoencephalomyelopathy. A responsible breeder counters this proactively and uses the mandatory genetic tests and X-ray examinations of the Deutscher Club für Leonberger Hunde e.V. prior to mating. Have the official test results of the parent animals shown to you: for HD, only A–B is permitted, and for ED, only 0–1; for polyneuropathy 2, both parents must be clear, and for polyneuropathy 1 as well as leukoencephalomyelopathy, a carrier may only be mated with a clear partner.
- 2811 core tests9 recommended2 exemplary
In the Border Collie, breed-typical risks include hip dysplasia (HD), eye problems such as Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA), and hereditary neurological disorders such as Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis (NCL) or Trapped Neutrophil Syndrome (TNS). Responsible breeders comprehensively test their breeding stock genetically before mating, have the hips X-rayed, and carry out an ophthalmological examination. In the case of inheritable defects such as the MDR1 defect (multidrug sensitivity) or CEA, they strictly ensure that carriers are only mated with non-affected, free partners. Before buying a puppy, have the breeder present the official certificates showing HD results of grade B at most, as well as laboratory results for NCL, TNS, and the MDR1 defect (multidrug sensitivity) for both parents.
- 2911 core tests2 recommended2 exemplary
In the American Staffordshire Terrier, severe hereditary neurological disorders such as polyneuropathy with juvenile laryngeal paralysis (ALLP) and cerebellar ataxia (CA1), as well as heart diseases and elbow dysplasia (ED), define the breed-typical risk. The Deutscher Club für Bullterrier e.V. makes genetic testing for ALLP mandatory for breeding, whereby carriers may only be mated with clear partners. A health-oriented breeder additionally tests the parent animals for cerebellar ataxia (CA1) and neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis 4A (NCL-4A), has the heart examined, and has the joints X-rayed for elbow dysplasia (ED) and hip dysplasia (HD). Before buying, make sure to ask for the complete DNA results, heart examination report, and proof of ED 0–1 and HD A–C for both parents.
- 3011 core tests3 recommended1 exemplary
In the Berger de Brie (Briard), breed-typical risks exist for Congenital Stationary Night Blindness (Briard), Hip Dysplasia (HD), and Ectopic Ureter (EU). Breed clubs such as the Briard Club Deutschland e.V. (BCD) and the Club für Französische Hirtenhunde e.V. (cfh) mandate screening for Ectopic Ureter (EU), which must be clear, as well as a genetic test for Congenital Stationary Night Blindness (Briard), requiring that carriers are only mated with clear partners. Responsible breeders additionally test the parent animals for Hip Dysplasia (HD) with the threshold of HD A–B. Ask to see these test results in writing for both parents before buying a puppy.
- 3111 core tests1 exemplary
In the German Hunting Terrier (Deutscher Jagdterrier), there are serious breed-specific risks of primary lens luxation (PLL), progressive retinal atrophy, and epilepsy. The Deutsche Jagdterrier-Club e.V. (DJT) strictly mandates for breeding approval that breeding animals must be free of primary lens luxation (PLL). Responsible breeders additionally test parent animals for progressive retinal atrophy, rule out congenital sensorineural deafness (CHSD) via audiometric testing, and screen for ectropion / entropion as well as cleft palate. Before buying a puppy, have the written PLL test results showing 'clear' presented to you, and specifically ask for normal eye examination records and parent animals with bilateral hearing.
- 3210 core tests18 recommended1 exemplary
In the Samoyed, breed-specific risks exist for eye diseases such as pectinate ligament dysplasia (PLD), primary lens luxation (PLL), and cataract, as well as for hip dysplasia (HD). The Deutscher Club für Nordische Hunde e.V. (DCNH) mandatorily requires proof that the parent animals are free from pectinate ligament dysplasia (PLD). A health-oriented breeder additionally tests the parent animals for hip dysplasia (HD) with the cut-off value HD A–C, as well as for primary lens luxation (PLL) and cataract (free in each case). Make sure that these test results and ideally genetic tests for familial nephropathy (FN) are available to you – carriers may only be mated with free partners.
- 3310 core tests11 recommended4 exemplary
In the West Highland White Terrier, there are breed-typical risks for severe eye diseases such as primary lens luxation (PLL) and cataracts, as well as skeletal diseases such as craniomandibular osteopathy (lion jaw). While the Klub für Terrier e.V. only mandates examination for patellar luxation (PL) with the limit value PL 0–1, responsible breeders additionally test for hip dysplasia (HD) and have a comprehensive eye examination performed. Before buying a puppy, have the official findings on patellar luxation as well as current evidence of freedom from keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) and cataracts presented to you.
- 3410 core tests8 recommended1 exemplary
In the German Shorthaired Pointer, joint disorders such as osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) and hip dysplasia (HD), as well as severe neurological conditions like epilepsy, represent breed-specific risks. The Deutsch-Kurzhaar-Verband e.V. requires, among other things, screening for osteochondritis dissecans (OCD). Responsible breeders additionally screen their dogs for hip dysplasia (threshold HD A–B), have ocular conditions such as ectropion / entropion or distichiasis checked, and use genetic testing for chondrodysplasia (SLC13A1) and achromatopsia (day blindness) (CNGB3). Before purchasing a puppy, strictly insist on these written test results and ensure that if one parent is a carrier for chondrodysplasia (SLC13A1) or achromatopsia (day blindness) (CNGB3), the mating partner has tested clear without exception.
- 3510 core tests8 recommended
In the White Swiss Shepherd Dog, breed-typical risks exist for joint disorders such as hip dysplasia (HD) and elbow dysplasia (ED), as well as for severe hereditary diseases such as degenerative myelopathy (DM), pituitary dwarfism (PD), and the MDR1 defect (multidrug sensitivity). For breeding approval, the Rassezuchtverein für Weisse Schweizer Schäferhunde e.V. (RWS) mandates X-ray examinations for HD (limit HD A–B) and ED (limit ED 0 or borderline), as well as genetic testing for degenerative myelopathy, pituitary dwarfism, cerebellar hypoplasia (CH), and the MDR1 defect, where carriers may only be mated with clear partners. A health-focused breeder additionally has the parent animals tested for deafness and examined via an ophthalmological eye test (ECVO). Make sure to have these official X-ray reports and genetic test results presented to you without exception before buying a puppy.
- 3610 core tests
Although the German Hound is a robust hunting dog, it carries an above-average burden of complex hereditary diseases. Particularly critical are idiopathic epilepsy and congenital blindness, which are difficult to control through breeding due to their complex inheritance. The occurrence of cleft palates also requires buyers to select breeding lines very carefully.
- 379 core tests10 recommended13 exemplary
With the Old English Sheepdog (Bobtail), you need to watch out for breed-specific issues such as hip dysplasia (HD), degenerative myelopathy, and exercise-induced collapse (EIC). For breeding approval in the Deutscher Old English Sheepdog Club e.V., hip dysplasia (HD) X-rays resulting in HD A–B and an ophthalmological eye examination with a clear result are mandatory. A responsible breeder additionally tests for degenerative myelopathy, exercise-induced collapse (EIC), and primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD), ensuring that carriers are only mated with clear partners. Always ask to see these official evaluation certificates and genetic tests of the parent animals in full before buying a puppy.
- 389 core tests1 recommended2 exemplary
With the Border Terrier, you must pay particular attention to serious conditions such as spongiform leucoencephalomyelopathy (SLEM), primary lens luxation (PLL), cataracts, and hip dysplasia (HD). A responsible breeder has the parent animals specifically screened for these risks before breeding to rule out hereditary suffering. Before purchasing a puppy, ask to see the written results for hip dysplasia (HD) with a grade of HD A–B, patellar luxation (PL) with grade 0, and the DNA test for spongiform leucoencephalomyelopathy (SLEM), where carriers may only be mated with clear partners. In addition, you should request proof of clear results for cataracts, primary open-angle glaucoma, ectropion / entropion, and primary lens luxation (PLL), as well as the available findings for retinal dysplasia.
- 399 core tests2 recommended
In the Rough Collie, there are known breed-specific risks for eye diseases such as Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA) and Progressive Retinal Atrophy, as well as for severe neurological and metabolic disorders such as Degenerative Myelopathy and the MDR1 defect (multidrug sensitivity). The Club für Britische Hütehunde e.V. (CfBrH) therefore mandates genetic tests for these defects, an ophthalmological eye exam, as well as proof regarding Dermatomyositis (DMS), Inflammatory Pulmonary Disease (IPD), and merle coat color. A health-conscious breeder also screens for Hip Dysplasia (HD) and additionally tests for Cyclic Hematopoiesis (Grey Collie Syndrome) and Hyperuricosuria (HUU). Have the official findings of both parent animals shown to you and make sure that carriers of gene mutations were paired without exception with genetically clear partners and that the hip scores are in the range of HD A–C.
- 409 core tests2 recommended
In the Smooth Collie, breed-typical risks exist for the MDR1 defect (drug hypersensitivity), Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA), and dermatomyositis (DMS). The Club für Britische Hütehunde e.V. (CfBrH) mandatorily requires genetic testing for these diseases, as well as for degenerative myelopathy, among others, and an ophthalmological eye exam for breeding. A responsible breeder also tests for progressive retinal atrophy, rod-cone dysplasia 2, and has the parent animals examined for hip dysplasia (HD). Have all test results presented to you without gaps before purchasing a puppy, and make sure that carriers of gene mutations were mated exclusively with clear partners.
Frequently asked questions
Why these breeds specifically?
These breeds carry several serious inherited diseases for which recognized tests exist. Careful breeding selection can greatly reduce the risk — which is why the breeder matters so much.
Which tests should a breeder have done?
It depends on the breed. Typical ones are hip/elbow X-rays, eye exams and breed-typical DNA tests. The core (level 1) tests should be fully documented.
How much more does a health-tested puppy cost?
Responsible breeding costs more because testing costs money. In return, the risk of expensive treatments and serious illness drops substantially.
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