Fine nick

The importance of testing for health concerns before you breed cannot be underestimated. Stud dogs and bitches should be tested and certified free of serious conditions before they become part of your breeding program. This is very important because failure to do so can result in unfavorable genetics being passed on to future generations of puppies. A truly responsible breeder will want to work to keep these genetic diseases and disorders out of the lines. The best way to do this is to have all intact dogs and bitches tested and neuter or spay those found to have genetic diseases or disorders. These dogs and bitches can still make excellent companion dogs but they should not be used for breeding purposes. The types of testing required will vary for different breeds but this article will provide information on some of the common tests and certifications that should be used before the breeding process starts.

There are many breeds, especially large breeds, that have problems with joints. This may include elbow dysplasia, hip dysplasia as well as problems with any of the joints in the body. These dysplastic conditions as well as other joint issues are hereditary so dogs and bitches with these conditions should not be bred. Joint issues are typically diagnosed through close examination of the x-rays of the joints. Your veterinarian can x-ray the joints to be sent to the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA). The OFA will examine these x-rays and certify your dog or bitch with a rating of fair, good or excellent depending on the overall health of the joints. Only dogs and bitches with ratings of fair, good or excellent should be bred. Dogs and bitches failing to obtain one of these ratings should be neutered or spayed to avoid accidental breeding which can put future litters of puppies at risk for dysplastic conditions.