Companion Animals

Dog Breed-Specific Health Screening: Improving Outcomes

Breed-specific health screening before breeding is the most effective tool for reducing inherited disease welfare burden.

Key Facts

Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and eye disease have validated genetic screening tests
BVA/Kennel Club health schemes require scoring for specific breeds before registration
Breeders who select only screened parents reduce inherited disease incidence within generations
Genomic testing is now available for over 200 inherited canine conditions

Welfare Considerations

Inherited diseases cause lifelong welfare compromise in affected dogs. Responsible breeders who screen for all breed-relevant conditions and select only healthy parents directly reduce the number of dogs born into pain and disability. Health screening is an ethical responsibility of breeding.

What You Can Do

Only purchase puppies from breeders who can demonstrate health screening certificates
Check breed-specific health screening requirements on the BVA and Kennel Club websites
Advocate for mandatory health screening as a requirement for pedigree dog registration