LMU GOLDENS - Essential Health Testing

Essential Health Tests for Breeding Golden Retrievers

Breeding Golden Retrievers is a responsibility that requires thorough preparation and a commitment to the health and well-being of the dogs. To ensure that the puppies are healthy and have the best start in life, several health tests are essential before breeding. These tests help to identify genetic conditions and structural issues that could be passed on to the next generation. Below, we discuss the critical tests recommended for Golden Retrievers:

OFA Testing

Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) testing is crucial for assessing the physical health of Golden Retrievers. The key areas tested include:

Hips: Hip Dysplasia is a common condition in Golden Retrievers, where the hip joint doesn't fit into the hip socket properly. OFA hip evaluations help determine the degree of hip dysplasia and classify it as excellent, good, fair, or poor.
Elbows: Elbow Dysplasia can lead to arthritis and lameness. OFA elbow evaluations check for abnormalities in the elbow joint.
Heart: Cardiovascular health is vital. A thorough heart evaluation by a veterinary cardiologist screens for conditions like Subaortic Stenosis (SAS), Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM), and other heart defects.
Eyes: Canine eye exams by a board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist are necessary to detect hereditary eye diseases, including Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), cataracts, and retinal dysplasia.

Genetic Testing

Genetic testing is indispensable for identifying specific inherited conditions that could affect the health of Golden Retrievers:

GR-PRA1 and GR-PRA2: These tests screen for different forms of Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), a condition that leads to blindness. Identifying carriers and clear dogs helps in breeding away from these genetic issues.
PRA-prcd: This test detects the form of PRA known as progressive rod-cone degeneration. Testing helps ensure that dogs with this mutation are not bred together.
GR-MD (Golden Retriever Muscular Dystrophy): This genetic disorder affects muscle function and strength. Testing helps identify carriers and clear individuals to prevent the disease's spread.
NCL (Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis): This is a group of diseases affecting the nervous system. Testing for NCL ensures that dogs are free from this fatal condition.
ICH1 and ICH2 (Imerslund-Gräsbeck Syndrome): These tests screen for a condition affecting nutrient absorption, which can impact the dog’s overall health. Genetic testing for these conditions helps prevent their transmission.
DM (Degenerative Myelopathy): This progressive neurological disease can lead to paralysis. Testing for the DM gene mutation allows breeders to avoid breeding dogs carrying this mutation.

Additional Recommended Tests

While the tests mentioned above are fundamental, additional evaluations and screenings can further enhance the health of breeding Golden Retrievers:

Thyroid Testing: Hypothyroidism is common in Golden Retrievers. Testing for thyroid function helps in early detection and management of this condition.
Patellar Luxation: Testing for patellar luxation, a condition where the knee cap dislocates, is essential for maintaining the structural integrity of the breed.
Blood Tests and General Health Screenings: Regular health checks and blood tests can help identify any underlying issues that may affect the breeding dogs’ health or the puppies' development.

Conclusion

Breeding Golden Retrievers is a rewarding endeavor that necessitates a deep understanding of the breed’s health challenges. Conducting thorough health testing, including OFA evaluations and comprehensive genetic screenings, is crucial for breeding dogs that are not only healthy but also free from genetic diseases. By adhering to these testing protocols, breeders can contribute to the longevity and well-being of the breed, ensuring that future generations of Golden Retrievers are vibrant, healthy, and happy.