11/05/2023
This is why we do health testing.
Most reputable breeders do a series of health testing on their dogs. We personally do the Embark DNA panel to check for genetic health issues, an OFA eye exam to check for abnormalities in the eyes, and OFA X rays for hip and elbows (which a dog must be 2 years old for). Different breeds might require different or additional health testing but these are what we do for our border collies.
So we’ll talk about our 2 year old female Gypsy. She passed her OFA eye certification with no problem, she had no issues in her genetic panel either, but to our total surprise the results of the OFA X rays were not what we were hoping. To give you some background Gypsy is a 30 pound wild child, she is energetic and outgoing and moves seemingly effortlessly. Gypsy has mild hip Dysplasia. At 2 years old she is showing no signs on the outside of it but internally the X rays show it. Gypsy will not be getting bred and will instead be getting spayed. Had I not done the X rays I would have never guessed it. This is something that will likely effect her in the future and now that we know it we are able to be proactive.
The reason we tell you guys all of this is because this is something she could have passed on to her puppies. And yet had we not done the health testing we would never have known. We are firm believers in Adopt OR Shop. But please if you are thinking of buying a puppy find a reputable breeder who health test their dogs. Yes the puppies cost more in the beginning, which should be understandable given the cost of health testing and only breeding quality animals, but it will save you money and heartache in the future knowing the background of these animals and having a trusted breeder helping guide you on your journey with your new family member.
