Our D
allas Dog Breeder gave us some interesting information on dog breeding that is both applicable for pure breeds and mixed breeds. Something that affects a lot of dogs these days in genetic defects or diseases. A good Dallas Dog Breeder however, will test and screen their dogs to make sure they are free of such defects before breeding them. This means that a purebred dog from a responsible breeder has more possibilities of being healthy than from an irresponsible breeder that would not do this test on the dogs. Some of the most common types of tests that are done on dogs are the following: OFA, which means Orthopedic Foundation for Animals. The OFA is known for certifying x rays done on the dog's hips and determine if a dog does not have hip dysplasia which is a malformation of the hip joint that causes crippling. The best way to make sure your dog will not get hip dysplasia is to choose one from a canine whose last two generations have gotten OFA tests and screens. The OFA also takes care of testing other genetic maladies such as copper toxicosis and elbow dysplasia. Another very good place is CERF, which is the Canine Eye Registry Foundation. This organization will do a special check and will be able to certify that a dog's eyes are free from visible genetic disease. A breeding dog should have an up to date CERF, done within the last year. There is also Penn HIP, which is a test of lip joint laxity. A Good Dallas Dog Breeder will also do a hypothyroidism screen on the dog called a thyroid screening since it is a common defect in many breeds as well.
