When looking for a reputable breeder, one of the most important things to look for is if they have records of health clearances for every one of their dogs.
Health clearances for labs are a series of tests that help breeders prevent numerous genetic conditions common in Labrador Retrievers from being passed on to puppies. In other words, if you get a puppy from parents who are tested for breed conditions, your puppy will have the absolute best chance at a long, happy, problem-free life. There are eight different tests required by both the LRC (Labrador Retriever Club) and the AKC (American Kennel Club) as a minimum; OFA hip evaluation, OFA elbow evaluation, CAER, EIC, D locus, CM, PRA, and Cardiac evaluation (an echo is recommended, but not required). Below I will explain each one of these tests in detail.
OFA Hip and Elbow Evaluation
One of the most common conditions seen in Labrador Retrievers is hip and elbow dysplasia, a painful condition that causes severe arthritis in the joints. An OFA hip evaluation is where a radiographic image of the dog’s hips are taken and sent into the OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals). Here, three veterinarians who are specialized in radiology separately review the images. The hips are given a score of either Excellent, Good, Fair, Borderline, Mild, Moderate or Severe. According to the OFA, only the first three scores are acceptable scores for breeding, while the remaining four scores are regarded as dysplastic. The elbow evaluation is similar. A radiographic image is sent in, reviewed by three radiologists, and given a score. However, the elbow evaluation only has one acceptable score; normal. Any other variations are regarded as dysplastic.
CAER
The CAER (Companion Animal Eye Registry) provides breeders with information about genetic canine eye diseases, so they can make informed decisions around whether or not to breed a particular dog. According to the OFA, “The Eye Certification exam consists of indirect ophthalmoscopy and slit-lamp biomicroscopy...if a serious ocular health problem (such as glaucoma) is suspected during the Eye Certification exam, the examiner will recommend a more comprehensive ocular examination.” Simply put, an eye examination by a board-certified (AVCO) ophthalmologist takes place, and if any abnormalities are detected, it is recommended to remove that dog from the breeding program. Many eye diseases are genetic, so having cleared parents ensures healthy eyes for puppies.
EIC
EIC (Exercise Induced Collapse) is a hazardous condition that causes dogs to collapse after strenuous exercise. In certain circumstances, attacks caused by EIC result in death. That being said, it is not a condition to take lightly. Breeders use DNA testing to determine whether a dog is clear or a carrier. If a dog receives a “clear” result, then it is impossible for puppies to be affected by the disease no matter what. “Carriers” of EIC do not show symptoms but carry the gene. If two “carriers” are bred, the puppies have a high chance of being affected by the disease.
D Locus
The D Locus (Dilute) gene is a mutation of the genes that cause “silver” puppies. The dilute gene is not naturally found in Labs and is believed by many to come from Weimaraners or Chesapeake Bay Retrievers, who both carry the dilute gene naturally. That being said, silver labs are not accepted! Labrador Retrievers come in only three colors, black, yellow, and chocolate. Many breeders sell silver puppies for a premium price, claiming they are a “rare” color. Responsible breeders test for the dilute gene, and if their dog is a carrier, they are removed from the program immediately.
CM
CM (Centronuclear Myopathy) is a disease that causes severe muscle weakness in Labrador Retrievers. Symptoms include muscle tremors, collapse, easily tiring, and the inability to walk normally. This is another clearance that can be easily tested by DNA.
PRA
PRA (progressive retinal atrophy) is similar to retinitis pigmentosa in humans; it is characterized by the bilateral degeneration of the retina, causing gradual vision loss culminating in blindness. In other words, it is a genetic disease that ultimately causes blindness in dogs. The PRA test is another DNA test that is easily accessible for breeders.
Cardiac evaluation
The last clearance recommended is a cardiac evaluation done with an echocardiogram. This test looks for abnormalities in the heart that can be genetically passed down with puppies. The exam is carried out by a board-certified veterinary cardiologist who ultrasounds the heart. All breeders should have records of this clearance readily available, with normal scores and no abnormalities found.
Although these eight tests are critical, many breeders, including myself, test for even more genetic conditions. In my particular program, I use the Embark DNA health panel to test for over 160 genetic diseases common in all dogs. In conclusion, your breeders should be able to show reports of all clearances. Responsible breeders will be knowledgeable about these conditions and be able to explain why each test is essential.