Health Testing in My Show-Type Cocker Spaniel Breeding Program

When it comes to breeding healthy, happy puppies, health testing isn’t optional, it’s essential. As a responsible breeder of show-type Cocker Spaniels, I carry out a comprehensive range of health checks on all my breeding girls. These tests are designed to reduce the risk of inherited diseases and give every puppy the best possible start in life.

Below, I’ve outlined the key health tests I undertake, along with clear explanations of what each condition involves and why it matters.

DNA Health Testing

DNA testing allows us to identify whether a dog is clear, a carrier, or affected by specific inherited conditions. This knowledge helps ensure that breeding decisions avoid producing affected puppies.

prcd-PRA (Progressive Rod-Cone Degeneration – Progressive Retinal Atrophy)

prcd-PRA is an inherited eye disease that leads to gradual vision loss and, eventually, blindness. It affects the retina, which is responsible for detecting light and enabling vision. Dogs with this condition typically begin to lose their night vision first, followed by daytime vision. Since it is a late-onset condition, dogs may appear healthy for years before symptoms develop, making DNA testing especially important.

FN (Familial Nephropathy)

Familial Nephropathy is a serious inherited kidney disease. It affects the kidneys’ ability to filter waste products from the blood, leading to kidney failure, often at a young age. Symptoms can include excessive thirst, weight loss, and lethargy. Sadly, it is usually fatal, which is why responsible breeders ensure that no affected puppies are produced through careful genetic screening.

AMS (Acral Mutilation Syndrome)

Acral Mutilation Syndrome is a neurological condition that affects pain sensation in a dog’s extremities (usually the feet). Dogs with AMS cannot properly feel pain in their paws, which can lead to excessive licking, biting, or even self-mutilation. This condition significantly impacts quality of life, so preventing it through testing is crucial.

AON (Adult Onset Neuropathy)

Adult Onset Neuropathy is a progressive neurological disorder that typically appears later in a dog’s life. It affects coordination and movement, often starting with weakness in the hind limbs. Over time, it can lead to difficulty walking and muscle wastage. While symptoms usually appear in adulthood, responsible breeding practices aim to prevent passing this condition on.

Eye Testing (BVA Eye Scheme)

In addition to DNA testing, I carry out regular eye examinations under the BVA (British Veterinary Association) Eye Scheme.

Annual Eye Testing

Each year, my dogs undergo a thorough eye examination by a certified veterinary ophthalmologist. This checks for a wide range of inherited and non-inherited eye conditions, ensuring ongoing eye health.

Gonioscopy (Every 3 Years)

Gonioscopy is a specialised test that examines the drainage angle within the eye. It is used to assess the risk of glaucoma, a painful condition caused by increased pressure inside the eye. Some dogs may have abnormal drainage angles that predispose them to this condition, so regular screening is vital.

Hip and Elbow Scoring

Hip Scoring

Hip scoring assesses the structure and health of a dog’s hip joints using X-rays. It helps identify hip dysplasia, a condition where the hip joint does not fit together properly. This can lead to pain, arthritis, and reduced mobility. Lower scores indicate healthier hips, and careful selection of breeding dogs helps reduce the risk in future generations.

Elbow Scoring

Elbow scoring evaluates the elbow joints for signs of elbow dysplasia, a condition that can cause lameness and discomfort. Like hip dysplasia, it is influenced by genetics, so screening plays a key role in responsible breeding.

Why Health Testing Matters

Every test I carry out is part of a wider commitment: to protect the breed and produce puppies that are not only beautiful but also healthy and well-adjusted. By combining DNA testing, regular veterinary screening, and careful breeding choices, I aim to minimise inherited health risks and give each puppy the best possible quality of life.

Health testing isn’t just about ticking boxes, it’s about doing the right thing for the dogs, for their future families, and for the long-term wellbeing of the breed.

If you’d like to know more about my breeding practices or health testing protocols, feel free to get in touch, I’m always happy to talk dogs!