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 offers these proofs without being asked:
- Health results for both parents (hips, elbows, eyes, breed-typical DNA tests).
- Current results from recognised bodies, not just self-reported claims.
- Openness about the known risks of the breed and the line.
Breeds with the most required tests
- 1MudiC18 required tests1 recommended
The Mudi is an agile working dog, but it comes with an above-average list of mandatory health tests. The focus is particularly on orthopedic vulnerabilities such as hip dysplasia (HD) and patellar luxation, as well as a variety of hereditary eye diseases like cataracts. Buyers should be extremely thorough and only choose puppies whose parents have complete and current health test results.
- 215 required tests1 recommended1 exemplary
The Schapendoes carries a significant genetic burden, with 20 mandatory health tests primarily focused on the eyes. Conditions such as Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) and Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA) require strict screening to prevent blindness. Hip Dysplasia (HD) is also a concern, which is why prospective puppy buyers should insist on seeing complete and verified health test results for both parents.
- 3PumiC15 required tests2 recommended
The Pumi is an agile working dog, but prospective owners should be prepared for an above-average list of mandatory health tests. The primary focus is on hereditary eye conditions such as cataracts and lens luxation, as well as joint issues like hip dysplasia (HD). While these risks can be effectively minimized when buying a puppy thanks to strict breeding regulations and mandatory testing, it is essential to take a close look at the health results of the parent dogs.
- 414 required tests11 recommended4 exemplary
While the Cairn Terrier is a robust companion in everyday life, it carries an above-average genetic burden with nine registered mandatory health tests. The eyes are particularly vulnerable to conditions such as Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) and cataracts, which can lead to blindness in the worst-case scenario. Additionally, when purchasing a puppy, you should specifically check for kneecap stability (patellar luxation) to avoid future joint problems.
- 514 required tests9 recommended
The Airedale Terrier receives a grade of C, as it carries an above-average genetic burden with 9 mandatory health tests. The eyes are particularly at risk due to conditions such as Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) and cataracts, which require regular screening. Furthermore, hip dysplasia (HD) and elbow dysplasia (ED) must be consistently monitored to prevent painful joint diseases.
- 614 required tests4 recommended
The Shikoku is essentially a robust, natural breed; however, the list of required breeding tests is above average, with 15 mandatory health screenings. A particular focus is placed on hereditary eye conditions such as Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA) and cataracts, which must be monitored through regular eye examinations. In addition, hip dysplasia (HD) is a significant concern, as it is with many medium-sized breeds, which is why buyers should insist on seeing certified X-ray results for the parent dogs.
- 7PuliC14 required tests3 recommended
The Puli is a rugged working dog that nevertheless requires an above-average number of mandatory health tests, particularly regarding the eyes. Significant conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma, and hip dysplasia (HD) are prevalent in the breed and must be actively managed through breeding tests. Prospective buyers should be especially meticulous in ensuring that the parents have comprehensive and complete health screening results.
- 814 required tests2 recommended
While the Kishu is considered a robust and primitive breed, it requires an above-average number of mandatory health tests. The primary focus is on various hereditary eye conditions such as Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA) and cataracts, as well as hip dysplasia (HD) affecting the musculoskeletal system. To minimize these risks, prospective buyers should insist on seeing complete and up-to-date health screening results for both parents.
- 914 required tests1 recommended
The Dutch Shepherd (Rough-haired) is fundamentally a robust working dog, yet it requires an above-average number of mandatory health tests in breeding. Important concerns such as hip dysplasia (HD) and degenerative myelopathy (DM) are monitored through testing, but they require a careful review of the parent animals. Additionally, the risk of epilepsy remains a topic of concern, which is why buyers must pay very close attention to the health of the breeding line.
- 1014 required tests1 recommended
The Norwegian Elkhound (black) requires an above-average number of mandatory health tests, which focus almost exclusively on eye health. Conditions such as glaucoma and cataracts require consistent monitoring to prevent blindness within the bloodline. In addition, hip dysplasia (HD) must be actively managed through selective breeding, which is why prospective buyers should only choose puppies from breeders who can provide complete, verified health reports.
- 1114 required tests
The long-haired Dutch Shepherd is a robust working dog, but it carries an above-average number of breed-related hereditary diseases. Important risks such as hip dysplasia (HD) and elbow dysplasia (ED) are fortunately strictly monitored. Nevertheless, buyers must be aware of neurological risks such as degenerative myelopathy (DM) and spongiform degeneration with cerebellar ataxia (SDCA2), which is why complete test results for the parent animals are mandatory.
- 1213 required tests11 recommended14 exemplary
The Labrador Retriever is a popular family dog, but it carries an above-average genetic burden of potential health issues. In particular, the risk of joint problems such as hip dysplasia (HD), sudden muscle collapse due to Exercise Induced Collapse (EIC), and eye diseases like Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) makes buying a puppy without certified test results from the parents an unpredictable risk.
- 1313 required tests4 recommended2 exemplary
The Akita is a robust breed by nature, but it requires an above-average number of mandatory health tests, particularly regarding the eyes. Conditions such as glaucoma and cataracts require regular screenings to prevent vision loss. Additionally, hip dysplasia (HD) is a known risk in this large breed, which is why prospective buyers should always insist on seeing certified X-ray results for the parent dogs.
- 1413 required tests6 recommended
While the Australian Terrier is quite robust in everyday life, it carries an above-average genetic burden with a clear focus on eye diseases. Risks such as Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) and cataracts require consistent screening to prevent early-onset blindness. Furthermore, anatomical malformations such as a molera (open fontanelle) must be excluded through responsible breeding selection.
- 1513 required tests4 recommended1 exemplary
The Lapinporokoira is considered a robust working breed, but requires careful selection due to a long list of mandatory health tests. Eye health is a particular focus, which is why conditions such as Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA-PRCD) and cataracts, as well as hip dysplasia (HD), must be consistently screened. When buying a puppy, always ensure that you see complete and up-to-date health test results for both parents.
- 1613 required tests5 recommended
The Toy Manchester Terrier is an agile and generally robust companion, but the breed does carry specific health risks such as von Willebrand disease (a blood clotting disorder) and Primary Lens Luxation (PLL). Fortunately, both conditions can be effectively managed through genetic testing of the parent dogs. Additionally, the kneecaps should be checked by a veterinarian for patellar luxation to prevent future lameness.
- 1713 required tests4 recommended
The Komondor requires an above-average number of mandatory health tests, particularly concerning the eyes. Conditions such as cataracts and eyelid malformations like entropion must be monitored through regular breeding screenings. Additionally, hip dysplasia (HD) is a significant concern for this large breed, which is why prospective buyers should always insist on seeing certified health test results for both parents.
- 1813 required tests3 recommended1 exemplary
While the Västgötaspets is considered a robust working dog, it has an above-average list of mandatory health tests, particularly regarding the eyes. Conditions such as Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA-PRCD) and cataracts must be ruled out through regular screenings. Additionally, hip dysplasia (HD) is a concern, which is why buyers should insist on seeing complete and verified test results for both parents.
- 1913 required tests3 recommended
The East Siberian Laika is fundamentally a very robust working dog, though the breeding regulations require quite extensive preventative care. In particular, eye conditions such as glaucoma and cataracts, as well as hip dysplasia (HD), are established as mandatory health tests. Buyers should therefore be meticulous in ensuring that the parent dogs have been thoroughly and officially screened.
- 2013 required tests2 recommended
Although the Norwegian Elkhound is considered a very robust working dog, the list of mandatory health tests is quite extensive with 14 screenings, with a strong focus on eye health. Conditions such as glaucoma, cataracts, and hip dysplasia (HD) must be strictly screened for before breeding. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the test results of the parent dogs to avoid hereditary vision impairments or joint problems.
- 2113 required tests1 recommended1 exemplary
The Swedish Lapphund is inherently a robust and hardy breed, but it comes with an above-average list of mandatory health tests. Eye health is a particular focus, as conditions such as Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA-PRCD) and cataracts must be consistently monitored. The risk of Hip Dysplasia (HD) also requires a close look at the parents' X-ray results before purchasing a puppy.
- 2213 required tests1 recommended
The Black Russian Terrier is generally a robust breed, but its large size makes careful breeder selection essential. Hip dysplasia (HD) is a known risk for the musculoskeletal system, though it is well-managed through the mandatory health tests required by breed clubs. Furthermore, the predisposition for hyperuricosuria (HUU), which can cause painful bladder stones, can be effectively ruled out thanks to modern DNA testing.
- 2313 required tests1 exemplary
The Greenland Dog is a primitive, robust working breed that nevertheless requires a long list of mandatory health tests. Breeding efforts focus primarily on hip dysplasia (HD) as well as hereditary eye conditions such as cataracts and entropion. Thanks to these strict standard screening requirements within the kennel club, the risks for puppy buyers can be very effectively managed.
- 2413 required tests1 recommended
The Karelian Bear Dog requires an above-average number of mandatory breeding tests, reflecting a broad spectrum of potential hereditary conditions. The primary focus is on eye diseases such as Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA) and cataracts, as well as hip dysplasia (HD) regarding the musculoskeletal system. Thanks to consistent mandatory health tests, these risks can be effectively monitored in controlled breeding; however, prospective buyers should specifically ask to see the official health results.
- 2513 required tests1 recommended
The Lakeland Terrier is a very robust breed with a pleasingly low genetic disease burden. The primary focus is on hereditary eye conditions such as Primary Lens Luxation (PLL) and cataracts, both of which are well-controlled through targeted mandatory health tests. Aside from these manageable risks, there are hardly any breed-specific health issues, making this terrier a very healthy companion.
- 2613 required tests1 recommended
The Taiwan Dog is considered a robust primitive breed; however, the list of required breeding tests is above average, with 15 mandatory health screenings. In particular, the eyes must be examined thoroughly to rule out conditions such as Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA) or cataracts. Additionally, screening for hip dysplasia (HD) is essential to prevent joint problems.
- 2712 required tests9 recommended
While the Jack Russell Terrier is considered a robust working dog, it carries a higher-than-average genetic predisposition for eye conditions such as Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) and glaucoma. Patellar luxation is also a known joint weakness, though it can be effectively managed through strict breeding tests. Prospective buyers should therefore pay close attention to the health screening results of the parent dogs to avoid any unpleasant surprises.
- 2812 required tests3 recommended
The Hokkaido is considered a robust breed, but the list of required breeding tests for 13 L1 diseases is above average. Hereditary eye conditions such as cataracts and entropion, as well as hip dysplasia (HD), in particular, require consistent screening. Prospective buyers should therefore insist on seeing complete health test results for both parents.
- 2912 required tests2 recommended1 exemplary
The Icelandic Sheepdog is inherently a robust and hardy breed, yet it comes with an above-average list of mandatory health tests. The eyes are particularly susceptible to conditions such as cataracts and distichiasis, which is why you should look very closely at these results before purchasing. Additionally, hip dysplasia (HD) is a significant focus in the breed's development, though it is well-managed through strict mandatory X-ray screening requirements.
- 3012 required tests3 recommended
The Norwich Terrier receives a grade of C because the breed is prone to Upper Airway Syndrome (UAS), which can cause serious respiratory difficulties. Patellar luxation, where the kneecap painfully slips out of place, is also a known issue in these small dogs. Prospective buyers should ensure that the parents have been officially cleared of these conditions to minimize the risk of future breathing problems or joint issues.
- 3112 required tests1 recommended1 exemplary
The Jämthund is a robust Nordic hunting dog, yet it requires an above-average number of mandatory health tests. Particular focus is placed on hereditary eye conditions such as cataracts and eyelid abnormalities like entropion. Additionally, hip dysplasia (HD) is a known risk factor, though it is well-managed through strict breeding requirements.
- 3212 required tests1 exemplary
While the Kintamani-Bali Dog is considered a robust, natural breed, it requires an above-average number of mandatory health tests. The primary focus is on hereditary eye conditions such as cataracts and entropion, as well as hip dysplasia (HD). Prospective buyers should ensure that the parents have been thoroughly screened for these specific health concerns.
- 3312 required tests1 recommended
The Leonberger carries an above-average genetic burden, requiring seven mandatory health tests, which is why it receives a solid grade C. The primary focus is on severe neurological conditions such as polyneuropathy (LPN1 and LPN2) as well as leukoencephalomyelopathy (LEMP), both of which can be well-controlled in breeding programs thanks to modern genetic testing. Prospective buyers must also pay close attention to hip dysplasia (HD) screening results to minimize the risk of joint issues in this giant breed.
- 3412 required tests1 recommended
The Norfolk Terrier is a robust little dog with generally solid health, which is why it receives a B grade. Nevertheless, buyers should remain vigilant: the breed is prone to patellar luxation (a displacement of the kneecap) and various hereditary eye conditions. However, these risks can be effectively minimized through targeted mandatory health tests of the parent dogs.
- 3511 required tests3 recommended1 exemplary
The American Staffordshire Terrier receives a grade of C because the breed requires an above-average number of mandatory health tests. Particular focus is placed on the severe neurological condition Hereditary Cerebellar Ataxia (HCA) as well as joint issues such as Hip Dysplasia (HD). Buyers should insist on seeing complete test results for both parents to minimize these known risks.
- 3611 required tests3 recommended1 exemplary
With 12 mandatory health tests, the Briard faces an above-average number of health concerns compared to other breeds. Breeders must strictly screen for hip dysplasia (HD) and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) to prevent lameness and blindness. Additionally, epilepsy occurs occasionally within the breed, which is why buyers should only purchase from certified breeders who actively work to minimize these risks.
- 3711 required tests1 exemplary
While the Deutscher Jagdterrier is considered a robust working dog, it requires an above-average number of mandatory health tests. Genetic risks such as Primary Lens Luxation (PLL), hip dysplasia (HD), and eyelid defects like entropion must be managed through rigorous selective breeding. Prospective buyers should be meticulous in checking the test results of the parent dogs, as the breed carries a known genetic predisposition.
- 3811 required tests
The Braque du Bourbonnais receives a B grade, as it is a largely robust hunting breed with an average health risk profile. Mandatory health tests for hip dysplasia (HD) and elbow dysplasia (ED) are essential to rule out chronic joint issues. Furthermore, the breed-specific trait of brachyury or anury (short tail) should be carefully monitored by breeders to prevent associated spinal malformations.
- 3911 required tests
The Epagneul de Pont-Audemer is a robust French hunting breed with an average health profile. Important joint conditions such as hip dysplasia (HD) and elbow dysplasia (ED) are well-monitored through mandatory health tests within the breeding program. However, due to the very small population size of this breed, prospective buyers should be particularly diligent in verifying complete and transparent test results for both parent dogs.
- 4010 required tests9 recommended13 exemplary
With 18 documented hereditary diseases, the Old English Sheepdog carries an above-average genetic burden, which requires great caution when purchasing a puppy. Hip dysplasia (HD) and severe neurological conditions such as epilepsy are particularly well-known risks for this breed. Furthermore, eye conditions like Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA) must be managed through consistent mandatory health tests to prevent vision impairment.
Frequently asked questions
Why these breeds specifically?
These breeds carry several serious inherited diseases for which recognised 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 mandatory (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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