All prospective puppy buyers want their new puppy to have the best possible chance for a long and healthy life, and regular veterinary care is important toward achieving that goal. But in addition, the risks for many significant health issues can be greatly cut down through careful breeding practices, starting with a specific screening examination of the parents of a litter. Every breed (and mixed-bred dogs too) has its own particular hereditary problems, and Golden Retrievers are no exception. Failure to screen for these conditions before breeding results in taking unnecessary risks for genetic issues, and frequently turns into anxiety, sorrow, or pain for the buyer and dog alike. Below is a discussion of important issues for which the GRCA Code of Ethics recommends pre-breeding health testing. Reputable breeders are expected to conduct screening examinations for these issues on the parents of a litter and to disclose the results to prospective puppy buyers.
Health Clearances
What are they and why are they important?
Genetic Testing
In addition to the recommended health clearances, there are several genetic conditions that affect Golden Retrievers for which there are testing capabilities. Some of these are life threatening, so it is very important that at least one parent be checked. If one parent is a carrier or the disease is dominant, both parents would need to be checked. Golden Retrievers should be tested for the following genetic issues:
Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis (NCL)
Sensory Ataxic Neuropathy (SAN)
Congenital Myasthenic Syndrome (CMS)
Degenerative Myelopathy (DM)
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA1 & PRA2)
Progressive Rod-Cone Degeneration (PRCD)
Ichthyosis 1 & 2
Our dogs have completed all of these genetic tests and are clear for all. Our testing was completed by UC Davis and done via blood draw for better accuracy.
