Degenerative Myelopathy (DM)

Degenerative myelopathy (DM) is a recessive (2 copies of the mutation are necessary to be affected), progressive spinal cord disease in dogs that leads to muscle weakness and paralysis, primarily affecting older dogs. To learn more about DM, click here.

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Juvenile Hereditary Cataracts (JHC)

Juvenile Hereditary Cataracts are caused by a recessive (2 copies of the mutation are necessary to be affected) genetic mutation and typically lead to cataract formation before the age of one, progressing to blindness by two to three years. Testing can identify carriers and affected dogs, helping breeders make informed decisions to avoid producing affected puppies. To learn more about JHC, click here.

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L-2-Hydroxyglutaric Aciduria (L2HGA)

L2HGA, or L-2-hydroxyglutaric aciduria, is a rare metabolic disorder in dogs caused by a genetic mutation that leads to the accumulation of L-2-hydroxyglutaric acid, resulting in neurological symptoms such as seizures, altered behaviour, and muscle stiffness. It is a recessive disorder, meaning a dog must have two copies of the mutation to show clinical signs. To learn more about L2HGA, click here.

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Hip Screening (OFA or PennHIP)

OFA Hip and PennHIP are two recognized methods for evaluating a dog’s hip health and screening for hip dysplasia. 

 

OFA Hip evaluations, conducted through the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals, involve X-rays reviewed by certified radiologists to assess the shape and fit of the hip joint. Results are graded to determine whether a dog’s hips are excellent, good, fair or show signs of dysplasia.

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PennHIP (Pennsylvania Hip Improvement Program) uses a more detailed radiographic technique to measure hip joint laxity, or looseness, providing an objective score that can identify dogs at risk for developing hip dysplasia earlier in life.

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Elbow Screening

OFA Elbow Testing is a screening process developed by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals to evaluate dogs for elbow dysplasia.

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X-rays of both elbows are reviewed by OFA-certified radiologists. The images are assessed for abnormalities such as fragmented coronoid process (FCP), osteochondritis dissecans (OCD), ununited anconeal process (UAP), or signs of degenerative joint disease.

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Dogs that receive a normal rating are considered free of inherited elbow issues, making them better candidates for breeding. OFA elbow testing is a key step in promoting soundness, reducing genetic joint problems, and improving the overall health of future generations​

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Companion Animal Eye Registry Eye Exam (CAER)

CAER is a certified eye examination program designed to detect hereditary eye diseases in dogs. Conducted by board-certified veterinary ophthalmologists, the CAER exam evaluates the structures of the eye, including the cornea, lens, retina, and optic nerve—for signs of congenital or inherited disorders such as cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), or glaucoma.