Health screening involves assessing breeding dogs for inherited diseases and genetic conditions before breeding occurs. By carefully selecting dogs with favourable health results, breeders can significantly reduce the risk of passing preventable diseases on to future generations. This not only improves puppy health and quality of life, but also supports stronger breeding programs and healthier bloodlines over time.
Our experienced veterinary team provides advanced reproductive and breeding services, including hip and elbow screening, genetic testing, reproductive management, pregnancy monitoring, and breeding consultations. We work closely with breeders to help them make informed and evidence-based decisions for their breeding programs.
Choosing the Right Health Tests
The recommended health tests for breeding dogs vary depending on breed, family history, and the diseases known to affect that breed. Some conditions are more common in certain breeds, while others may occur across many breeds.
A valuable resource for recommended breed-specific screening is the Canine Health Information Center (CHIC) database, which outlines screening recommendations for many breeds worldwide.
Some health screening tests can be performed directly at our clinic, while others may require referral to specialist veterinary services. Our team can guide you through which tests are appropriate for your dog and breeding goals.
Hip Dysplasia Screening
Canine hip dysplasia is one of the most common inherited orthopaedic diseases affecting dogs, particularly medium and large breeds. The condition develops when the hip joint forms abnormally, leading to looseness within the joint, arthritis, pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility over time.
Although genetics play a major role, environmental factors such as growth rate, nutrition, body condition, and exercise can also influence disease development.
For breeders, identifying dogs with healthy hips is essential to reducing the prevalence of hip dysplasia within breeding lines. For working and sporting dogs, healthy hips can also help maximise comfort, mobility, and working longevity.
There are two commonly used hip screening programs in Australia.
PennHIP Assessment
The PennHIP program is an internationally recognised and research-based hip screening method designed to accurately measure hip laxity (hip looseness).
The hip joint functions as a ball-and-socket joint, with the femoral head fitting within the acetabulum. Dogs with increased hip laxity are significantly more likely to develop hip dysplasia and arthritis later in life.
PennHIP is currently regarded as the most accurate and objective method available for assessing hip laxity and predicting the future risk of hip dysplasia.
Benefits of PennHIP include:
- Screening can be performed from as early as 16 weeks of age
- Early identification of dogs at risk of developing hip dysplasia
- Objective measurements that can guide breeding decisions
- Ability to identify dogs with tighter hips for breeding selection
- Valuable information for lifestyle and preventative management recommendations
McLaren Vale Veterinary Surgery has experienced PennHIP-certified veterinarians who can perform PennHIP radiographs and assessments.