{"id":6215,"date":"2022-05-13T18:46:16","date_gmt":"2022-05-14T00:46:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/blog\/?p=6215"},"modified":"2026-03-02T01:13:09","modified_gmt":"2026-03-02T07:13:09","slug":"health-clearances-for-responsible-breeding","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/blog\/health-clearances-for-responsible-breeding\/","title":{"rendered":"Health Clearances for Responsible Breeding"},"content":{"rendered":"<audio class=\"wp-audio-shortcode\" id=\"audio-6215-1\" preload=\"none\" style=\"width: 100%;\" controls=\"controls\"><source type=\"audio\/mpeg\" src=\"https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/Health-Clearances-for-Responsible-Br.mp3?_=1\" \/><a href=\"https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/Health-Clearances-for-Responsible-Br.mp3\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\" rel=\"follow\">https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/Health-Clearances-for-Responsible-Br.mp3<\/a><\/audio>\n<p>When a prospective buyer is in the market for a puppy, they want to purchase a dog that will have a long, healthy life. There\u2019s no way to guarantee every puppy in every litter is 100% free from health problems, but responsible breeding practices greatly reduce the risk.<\/p>\n<p><!--more--><\/p>\n<p>When you&#8217;re running a reputable breeding business, there are many processes to be completed and requirements to meet. Few are more important than ensuring that before breeding your sires and dams have passed all appropriate health testing for dogs. Then, you can include this information in <a href=\"https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/blog\/how-to-build-a-puppy-kit-for-your-customers\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\" rel=\"follow\">the puppy kit you provide<\/a> to buyers and if something goes wrong down the road, <a href=\"https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/blog\/whats-in-your-puppy-contract\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\" rel=\"follow\">your puppy contract<\/a> will outline the procedures.<\/p>\n<p>Use this guide to familiarize yourself with general screenings and the specific health clearances for your breed. <a href=\"https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/blog\/best-pet-apps-for-breeders\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\" rel=\"follow\">Apps like Red Cross Pet First Aid<\/a> are also a helpful resource for breeders.<\/p>\n<h2><b>Parent Clubs Set Health Testing Requirements for Each Breed<\/b><\/h2>\n<p>Unethical <a href=\"https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/breeders\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\" rel=\"follow\">breeders<\/a> cut corners. Unfortunately, that means some will breed dogs that have a higher likelihood of passing on negative genetic traits. This is unfair to the puppies that may inherit debilitating disorders like hip dysplasia and eye issues; it&#8217;s also unfair to the owners who will see them suffer and have to shoulder the financial burden. And, when unregulated, this practice can damage the breed\u2019s lineage.<\/p>\n<p><b>Parent Clubs<\/b> set the\u00a0health testing requirements for a particular breed. What\u2019s a Parent Club?<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Every breed has a non-profit, <b>American Kennel Club (AKC)<\/b> recognized club. The club determines the breed standard and code of ethics.<\/li>\n<li>These clubs are very serious about protecting the integrity of the breed\u2019s lineage.<\/li>\n<li>One way clubs accomplish this mission is by ensuring dogs with bad genetics aren\u2019t bred, potentially passing on congenital defects.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-6216\" src=\"https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/OFA-puppies-1024x591-1.jpg\" alt=\"The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) is an important organization involved in health testing for dogs before breeding.\" width=\"800\" height=\"462\" srcset=\"https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/OFA-puppies-1024x591-1.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/OFA-puppies-1024x591-1-600x346.jpg 600w, https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/OFA-puppies-1024x591-1-768x443.jpg 768w, https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/OFA-puppies-1024x591-1-512x296.jpg 512w, https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/OFA-puppies-1024x591-1-150x87.jpg 150w, https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/OFA-puppies-1024x591-1-350x202.jpg 350w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/p>\n<h3><b>The Canine Health Information Center Program<\/b><\/h3>\n<p>Parent Clubs work with the <b>Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA)<\/b> to create a health database called <b>The Canine Health Information Center (CHIC)<\/b>.<\/p>\n<p>What is the CHIC and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.akc.org\/expert-advice\/dog-breeds\/health-testing-for-a-stronger-breed\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow external noopener\">why is it so helpful<\/a>?<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>The purpose of this database is to collect information on common health issues in each breed.<\/li>\n<li>This information plays a big part in determining what health screenings a dog must pass before being cleared to breed.<\/li>\n<li>The dog receives CHIC certification once it passes the tests and the owner allows the results to be publicly listed.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>This database is helpful for everyone in the industry, from breeders to buyers. Breeders can use the database to connect with healthy dogs, while buyers gain confidence that the puppy they\u2019re buying is less likely to have inherited breed-specific health problems.<\/p>\n<p>Not all breeds are included in the CHIC program \u2014 you can find a list of breeds included in the program on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ofa.org\/browse-by-breed\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow external noopener\">the OFA website<\/a>. Contact the Parent Club if your breed isn\u2019t included.<\/p>\n<p>If you\u2019re not sure about where to find information on your breed\u2019s Parent Club, don\u2019t worry! The AKC has created a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.akc.org\/breeder-programs\/breed-health-testing-requirements\/sporting-group-health-testing-requirements\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow external noopener\">health requirements page<\/a> as a resource center. This page breaks down every breed by group (non-sporting, sporting, terrier, etc.). These pages include a list of breeds and links to their respective Parent Club\u2019s website. There are also links to each breed&#8217;s official health statements, which go into detail about the required health tests and the desired results.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>AKC Breeder Programs<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Two AKC breeder programs require the completion of all applicable health screenings recommended by the Parent Club:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.akc.org\/breeder-programs\/akc-breeder-of-merit-program\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow external noopener\"><b>AKC Breeder of Merit Program<\/b><\/a> \u2013 This designation is for breeders who go above and beyond. They put particular emphasis on screening for health issues, temperament and genetics, plus placing puppies in responsible homes.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.akc.org\/breeder-programs\/akc-bred-with-heart-program\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow external noopener\"><b>AKC Bred with H.E.A.R.T. Program<\/b><\/a> \u2014 Breeders in this program are recognized for their responsibility in breeding. Anyone buying a new puppy should look for breeders in this program.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-6219\" src=\"https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/41077930_veterinarian-stroking-golden-retriever-dog.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"800\" height=\"534\" srcset=\"https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/41077930_veterinarian-stroking-golden-retriever-dog.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/41077930_veterinarian-stroking-golden-retriever-dog-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/41077930_veterinarian-stroking-golden-retriever-dog-768x513.jpg 768w, https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/41077930_veterinarian-stroking-golden-retriever-dog-1200x800.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/41077930_veterinarian-stroking-golden-retriever-dog-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/41077930_veterinarian-stroking-golden-retriever-dog-512x342.jpg 512w, https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/41077930_veterinarian-stroking-golden-retriever-dog-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/41077930_veterinarian-stroking-golden-retriever-dog-350x234.jpg 350w, https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/41077930_veterinarian-stroking-golden-retriever-dog-1024x684.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/p>\n<h3><b>Meet with Your Vet to Plan Tests<\/b><\/h3>\n<p>Now that you know the required health tests for your dog, what are the next steps? First, you should meet with your vet and determine the logistics of completing the tests. A few questions you should ask include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>What is the cost of each health test?<\/li>\n<li>For each test, what are the required results? What happens if the dog doesn\u2019t pass a test?<\/li>\n<li>Can any of the tests be repeated when the dog is older?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><b>Common Health Tests\u00a0<\/b><\/h2>\n<p>Different breeds are prone to different genetic ailments, each requiring a unique range of tests for ethical breeding. While health clearances vary by breed, there are some testing requirements that are common amongst many breeds.<\/p>\n<h3><b>Physical Examination<\/b><\/h3>\n<p>This is the most basic test and can be completed by your vet \u2014 it\u2019s always a great idea to look for a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.akc.org\/expert-advice\/dog-breeding\/working-with-your-veterinarian\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow external noopener\">breeder-friendly vet<\/a> when you\u2019re getting started. This is less about genetic testing and more about the safety of the dog. Breeders need to have a physical examination completed to ensure there aren\u2019t any obvious health issues that could make breeding dangerous for their dog.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Some things the vet will check include:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Listening to the heart and lungs to ensure they\u2019re functioning properly.<\/li>\n<li>Examining the dog\u2019s mouth.<\/li>\n<li>Checking for eye issues such as glaucoma or cataracts.<\/li>\n<li>A joint test to determine the dog\u2019s range of motion.<\/li>\n<li>Vaginal exam and cytology to check for abnormalities.<\/li>\n<li>The vet may take blood samples for additional blood work.<\/li>\n<li>The dog must be current on core vaccinations and dewormings.<\/li>\n<li>A stool sample to check for worms \u2014 if they\u2019re present in the stool your vet will prescribe a dewormer.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><b>Hip Evaluation<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ofa.org\/diseases\/hip-dysplasia\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow external noopener\">Canine Hip Dysplasia<\/a> is one of the most common health issues in dogs. Dogs with the condition eventually feel pain with joint movement. While there are environmental factors that can lead to hip dysplasia, it\u2019s often genetic and the result of an abnormal hip joint.<\/p>\n<p>Vets identify hip dysplasia through a hip evaluation. Nearly every breed needs to have this test done and it\u2019s a fairly simple process. The veterinarian takes X-rays of the animal\u2019s hips, then an expert evaluates the images, looking for several key characteristics. The dog will be given a rating after the hips are evaluated. Most Parent Clubs require the X-rays be certified by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ofa.org\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow external noopener\">OFA<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h4><b>Within Normal Limits<\/b><\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Excellent<\/b> \u2014 The deep-seated femoral head (ball) fights tightly into a well-formed socket, which is called the acetabulum.<\/li>\n<li><b>Good<\/b> \u2014 There\u2019s some joint space where the ball fits into the socket, but it\u2019s minimal.<\/li>\n<li><b>Fair<\/b> \u2014 There are some minor irregularities and the ball slips slightly out of the socket.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h4><b>Borderline<\/b><\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Borderline<\/b> \u2014 While more issues are present than a dog with a Fair diagnosis, there aren\u2019t arthritic changes that would put the dog in the Mild, Moderate or Severe categories. Dogs that are deemed Borderline should be re-evaluated six months after the initial diagnosis.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h4><b>Dysplastic<\/b><\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Mild<\/b> \u2014 With mild hip dysplasia, the ball is partially out of the socket resulting in increased joint space. Because the socket is shallow, it only partially covers the ball.<\/li>\n<li><b>Moderate<\/b> \u2014 Moderate hip dysplasia means the ball is barely in the shallow socket.<\/li>\n<li><b>Severe<\/b> \u2014 Dogs in the Severe category have obvious evidence of hip dysplasia. The ball is either partially or completely out of the shallow socket. Additionally, there are arthritic bone changes.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Most dogs with hip dysplasia live full, healthy lives. You can only breed once the dog receives certification that it&#8217;s free of hip dysplasia. You cannot ethically breed dogs rated as having Mild, Moderate or Severe hip dysplasia.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-6222\" src=\"https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/40994004_veterinarian-examines-eye-of-a-dachshund-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"An ophthalmologist will check the eyes for any issues as a part of standard health testing for dogs before breeding.\" width=\"800\" height=\"534\" srcset=\"https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/40994004_veterinarian-examines-eye-of-a-dachshund-scaled.jpg 2560w, https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/40994004_veterinarian-examines-eye-of-a-dachshund-768x513.jpg 768w, https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/40994004_veterinarian-examines-eye-of-a-dachshund-2048x1367.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/40994004_veterinarian-examines-eye-of-a-dachshund-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/40994004_veterinarian-examines-eye-of-a-dachshund-1200x800.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/40994004_veterinarian-examines-eye-of-a-dachshund-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/40994004_veterinarian-examines-eye-of-a-dachshund-512x342.jpg 512w, https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/40994004_veterinarian-examines-eye-of-a-dachshund-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/40994004_veterinarian-examines-eye-of-a-dachshund-350x234.jpg 350w, https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/40994004_veterinarian-examines-eye-of-a-dachshund-1024x683.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/p>\n<h3><b>Ophthalmologist Evaluation<\/b><\/h3>\n<p>Parent Clubs often require an ophthalmologist evaluation when listing the required health testing for dogs before breeding. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ofa.org\/diseases\/eye-certification\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow external noopener\">OFA offers an eye certification<\/a> which is facilitated by the Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF).<\/p>\n<p>Board-certified veterinary ophthalmologists perform CERF certifications. These vets check for eye-related genetic diseases. Not only will they submit the exam forms to the OFA for certification, the organization aggregates all test results to provide a resource center on eye disease trends and breed susceptibility.<\/p>\n<h3><b>Cardiac Exam<\/b><\/h3>\n<p>Heart issues like a congenital cardiac disease are a dangerous genetic trait. Often, the condition is passed from parents to puppies. That\u2019s why most breeds require a cardiac exam to identify any potential issues in the dam and sire. Some common congenital cardiovascular defects include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/20960409\/#:~:text=Patent%20ductus%20arteriosus%20(PDA)%20is,is%20hereditary%20in%20several%20breeds.\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow external noopener\"><b>Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA)<\/b><\/a> \u2014 The most common congenital heart disease in dogs.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/nbk526085\/#:~:text=subvalvular%20aortic%20stenosis%20(sas)%2c,the%20left%20ventricular%20outflow%20tract.\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow external noopener\"><b>Subaortic (SAS) and Valvular Aortic Stenosis<\/b><\/a> \u2014 More common in large breed dogs like boxers, great danes and golden retrievers.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.vet.cornell.edu\/hospitals\/companion-animal-hospital\/cardiology\/pulmonic-stenosis-dogs\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow external noopener\"><b>Pulmonic Stenosis<\/b><\/a> \u2014 Caused by a malformation of the pulmonic valve on the right side of the heart; common in brachycephalic breeds, terriers and samoyeds.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.merckvetmanual.com\/circulatory-system\/congenital-and-inherited-anomalies-of-the-cardiovascular-system\/ventricular-septal-defects-in-animals\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow external noopener\"><b>Ventricular Septal Defect<\/b><\/a> \u2014 A hole or gap in the wall that separates the right and left ventricular chambers; more common in cats.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.petmd.com\/dog\/conditions\/cardiovascular\/c_dg_atrioventricular_valve_dysplasia#:~:text=Atrioventricular%20Valve%20Dysplasia%20in%20Dogs,a%20narrowing%20of%20the%20valves.\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow external noopener\"><b>Valvular Dysplasias<\/b><\/a> \u2014 Can lead to severe leakage of blood into the lungs or in the body.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.petmd.com\/dog\/conditions\/cardiovascular\/c_dg_atrial_septal_defect#:~:text=Atrial%20septal%20defect%20(ASD)%20is,septum%20(the%20separating%20wall).\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow external noopener\"><b>Atrial Septal Defect (ASD)<\/b><\/a> \u2014 Allows blood to flow between the left and right atria, causing an overload of blood in the right atrium; more common in cats than dogs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Vets identify issues in the dam and sire with a cardiac exam. There are two types of cardiac exams:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Auscultation<\/b> \u2014 The vet will use a stethoscope to listen to each area of the heart.<\/li>\n<li><b>Echocardiograms<\/b> \u2014 The vet uses Doppler technology to examine the heart, plus obtain imagery of the heart. Vets send this information to OFA for analysis.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-6220\" src=\"https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/45422754_veterinary-examine-dog.jpg\" alt=\"A cardiac exam is a crucial component of health testing for dogs before breeding.\" width=\"800\" height=\"536\" srcset=\"https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/45422754_veterinary-examine-dog.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/45422754_veterinary-examine-dog-598x400.jpg 598w, https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/45422754_veterinary-examine-dog-768x514.jpg 768w, https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/45422754_veterinary-examine-dog-1195x800.jpg 1195w, https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/45422754_veterinary-examine-dog-1536x1028.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/45422754_veterinary-examine-dog-512x343.jpg 512w, https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/45422754_veterinary-examine-dog-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/45422754_veterinary-examine-dog-350x234.jpg 350w, https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/45422754_veterinary-examine-dog-1024x685.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/p>\n<h3><b>Thyroid Evaluation<\/b><\/h3>\n<p>Hypothyroidism is typically an inherited condition. It causes weight gain, hair loss and skin problems. Dogs need to periodic retesting for the condition; one negative test doesn\u2019t guarantee the dog will be thyroiditis-free later in life.<\/p>\n<p>OFA maintains a data set breeders can use as a resource to decide which matings are most appropriate. This has the effect of reducing the occurrence of autoimmune thyroiditis \u2014 the most common cause of hyperthyroidism \u2014 in puppies.<\/p>\n<p>Luckily, hypothyroidism isn\u2019t life-threatening and you can treat it with a daily <a href=\"https:\/\/healthybitellc.sjv.io\/c\/5426694\/2230438\/28248\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow external noopener\">supplement<\/a>. However, if a dog tests positive for autoimmune thyroiditis, you may have a difficult time finding a mating partner.<\/p>\n<p>Vets use assay technology to classify a dog\u2019s thyroid status. There are three main indices of thyroiditis.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Free T4<\/b> \u2014 Also called FT4, this procedure is the best method of assessing thyroid production.<\/li>\n<li><b>Canine Thyroid Simulating Hormone (cTSH)<\/b> \u2014 The cTSH is abnormally elevated in cases of hypothyroidism.<\/li>\n<li><b>Thyroglobulin Autoantibodies (TgAA)<\/b> \u2014 TgAA looks for signs of the autoimmunity process in the thyroid.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>In order for a dog to be certified as having a normal thyroid, its FT4 concentration and cTSH must be within the normal range, and it has to have a negative result for the TgAA test. If a dog doesn\u2019t have hypothyroidism it can still be a carrier and pass on the recessive trait to its offspring.<\/p>\n<h2><b>Other Common Health Testing for Dogs Before Breeding<\/b><\/h2>\n<p>There are dozens of additional tests that certain breeds should pass before being cleared to breed. Here are a few of these health tests and a brief explanation of what they determine:<\/p>\n<h3><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ofa.org\/diseases\/elbow-dysplasia\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow external noopener\">Elbow Evaluation<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Elbow dysplasia is a condition that affects many breeds. The joint doesn\u2019t develop correctly and over time wears down, loses functionality and causes pain and\/or lameness. Like the hip evaluation, a vet x-rays your dog\u2019s elbows and sends the imagery to a specialist for assessment and grading.<\/p>\n<h3><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ofa.org\/diseases\/other-diseases\/patellar-luxation\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow external noopener\">Patella Evaluation<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Patellar luxation means that the dog\u2019s kneecap pops out of place. Never breed a dog with patella luxation because the condition is very painful.<\/p>\n<h3><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.affinity-dna.com\/eic-exercise-induced-collapse-dna-test\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow external noopener\">EIC DNA Test<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>EIC stands for exercise-induced collapse. It\u2019s important to have your dog tested before breeding; if they\u2019re a passive carrier and mate with another passive carrier, their offspring could develop EIC.<\/p>\n<h3><strong><a href=\"http:\/\/www.animalabs.com\/progressive-retinal-atrophy-pra-genetic-testing\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow external noopener\">PRA Optigen DNA Test<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>PRA is progressive retinal atrophy, a group of retinal diseases. These inherited diseases lead to blindness.<\/p>\n<h3><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thekennelclub.org.uk\/health-and-dog-care\/health\/getting-started-with-health-testing-and-screening\/dna-testing\/dna-test-pfk\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow external noopener\">PFK Disorder DNA Test<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>PFK is Phosphofructokinase deficiency, which leads to lethargy, anemia and exercise intolerance. The disease causes inadequate amounts of the Phosphofructokinase enzyme, which provides energy to muscles and red blood cells.<\/p>\n<h3><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/ofa.org\/degenerative-myelopathy\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow external noopener\">Degenerative Myelopathy DNA Test<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Degenerative Myelopathy is a disorder that affects a wide range of breeds \u2014 it\u2019s like the canine version of Lou Gehrig\u2019s disease. This disorder leads to muscle wasting, loss of coordination and incontinence in late stages. Dogs with the disorder often lose the ability to walk.<\/p>\n<h2><strong>Conclusion<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>Responsible dog breeders understand the importance of maintaining the integrity of the breed. That means following Parent Clubs\u2019 guidelines to a \u201cT,\u201d never cutting corners and only breeding dogs that are unlikely to pass on inherited diseases, syndromes and disorders. If you&#8217;re looking for additional pet health advice, <a href=\"https:\/\/petkeen.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow external\" data-wpel-link=\"external\">PetKeen<\/a> is a great resource.<\/p>\n<p>Similarly, breeders who are open to <a href=\"https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/blog\/breeders-guide-to-puppy-shipping\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\" rel=\"follow\">selling puppies to out-of-state buyers<\/a> should have full trust in their transporter. <a href=\"https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/blog\/review-showcase-five-stars-review-by-virginia-exceptional\/\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\" rel=\"follow\">CitizenShipper vets transporters<\/a> using stringent background checks \u2014 they won\u2019t cut corners when it comes to the safety of your puppies.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\" rel=\"follow\">Team up with CitizenShipper<\/a> for your <a href=\"https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/blog\/ship-puppy\/\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\" rel=\"follow\">puppy shipping needs<\/a> and find a pet transporter that will meet the high standards to which you hold your own business.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>When a prospective buyer is in the market for a puppy, they want to purchase a dog that will have a long, healthy life. There\u2019s no way to guarantee every puppy in every litter is 100% free from health problems, but responsible breeding practices greatly reduce the risk.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":76,"featured_media":6217,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_feature_clip_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"custom_post_schema":"<script type=\"application\/ld+json\">\n{\n  \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\",\n  \"@graph\": [\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"HowTo\",\n      \"name\": \"How to Complete Health Clearances for Responsible Dog Breeding\",\n      \"step\": [\n        {\n          \"@type\": \"HowToStep\",\n          \"name\": \"Identify your breed's required health tests\",\n          \"text\": \"Contact your breed's Parent Club or use the AKC's health requirements page to find the specific health screenings required for your breed. Check whether your breed is included in the Canine Health Information Center (CHIC) program on the OFA website.\"\n        },\n        {\n          \"@type\": \"HowToStep\",\n          \"name\": \"Meet with your vet to plan testing\",\n          \"text\": \"Schedule a planning meeting with a breeder-friendly veterinarian. Discuss the cost of each health test, the required results, what happens if the dog fails a test, and whether any tests can be repeated when the dog is older.\"\n        },\n        {\n          \"@type\": \"HowToStep\",\n          \"name\": \"Complete the physical examination\",\n          \"text\": \"Have your vet perform a full physical exam, including checking the heart and lungs, mouth, eyes, joints, and reproductive organs. 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A dog receives CHIC certification once it passes the required tests and the owner allows the results to be publicly listed.\"\n          }\n        },\n        {\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\n          \"name\": \"What are the hip dysplasia ratings used in dog breeding health evaluations?\",\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n            \"text\": \"OFA hip evaluations result in seven possible ratings. Within normal limits: Excellent (ball fits tightly into a well-formed socket), Good (minimal joint space), and Fair (minor irregularities, slight slipping). Borderline cases require re-evaluation after six months. Dysplastic ratings include Mild (ball partially out of socket, shallow socket), Moderate (ball barely in the shallow socket), and Severe (ball partially or completely out of socket with arthritic bone changes). 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