Breeding and Health Testing

To register a litter with Dogs Victoria, the sire (father) and dam (mother) must have their hips and elbows scored by an ANKC approved reader and procedures need to be followed by both the owner and the Veterinary Surgeon.

    • Requirement: The sire and dam must have their hips and elbows scored by an ANKC-approved reader.

    • Procedure: Both owner and veterinary surgeon must follow the set procedures for scoring.

    • Bitches: The minimum age for breeding is 18 months, as per ANKC regulations (refer to Section 6.2.10 – The Register and Registration).

    • Current Examination: Must be within the last 12 months (18 months for dogs that have a DNA-clear PRA-PRCD result).

    • Inherited Eye Diseases: Some conditions are inherited in a recessive manner, and DNA tests are available for certain diseases.

    • ACES: The Australian Canine Eye Scheme provides reliable screenings for a range of congenital and inherited eye conditions, conducted by registered veterinary eye specialists.

A veterinarian examines a golden retriever's nose using a flashlight in a veterinary clinic.

DNA Tests

When planning Labrador breedings, it's crucial to consider relevant health tests based on the current Australian Labrador Retriever gene pool. DNA tests for specific diseases and traits should inform breeding decisions. Understanding both the bloodlines of your dog and the potential mating partner is essential for minimizing genetic risks and promoting the health and vitality of future generations. This approach helps ensure healthier puppies and contributes to responsible breeding practices within the breed.

Veterinarian examining a golden retriever dog in a veterinary clinic.

  • An inherited condition causing blindness due to retinal degeneration. It manifests as night blindness and gradually leads to total blindness. The age and progression vary by breed.

    Types:

    Early-Onset PRA: Night blindness from birth, becoming fully blind between 1-5 years.

    Late-Onset PRA: Night blindness begins after 1 year, with full blindness occurring later.

    PRA can be inherited through recessive, dominant, or sex-linked traits. DNA tests are available for many breeds, though not all types are covered. Early detection can involve retinal exams or Electroretinography (ERG).

    Prcd-PRA: This specific type is linked to a mutation on the PRCD gene, often detected through DNA testing. Symptoms appear between 2-5 years depending on the breed. Dogs adapt well to gradual blindness, but regular eye exams are essential for early detection.

  • This autosomal recessive condition affects Labradors and related breeds, including mixed breeds, with up to 35% of the Labrador population potentially carrying the gene mutation. Signs typically appear between 6 months and 3 years old and involve loss of hind limb control, starting with a wobbly gait and progressing to collapse. Symptoms worsen with vigorous exercise, excitement, or high temperatures. While there’s no proven cure, some treatments may help in certain cases. Affected dogs should avoid stressful situations and high-energy activities.

  • Hereditary Nasal Parakeratosis (HNPK) is a condition affecting young dogs, typically between six to twelve months old. It causes dry, rough crusts on the nose and, in severe cases, cracks that lead to discomfort. The affected area is prone to infections and may lose pigment. Treatment typically involves veterinary consultation and topical therapies to manage the symptoms.

  • An inherited condition in Labrador Retrievers, causing muscle weakness and impaired function. Symptoms typically appear between 2 to 5 months of age and include generalized muscle weakness, abnormal posture, exercise intolerance, and a stiff gait. Affected dogs exhibit muscle atrophy and structural changes in muscle cells. There is no cure, and while dogs can live with the condition, their muscle function remains limited.

  • An inherited musculoskeletal disorder in Labrador Retrievers, leading to disproportionate dwarfism. Affected dogs have short, thick, slightly curved legs, with the front limbs more affected than the rear. Joint and eye issues are not typically present. The height of affected dogs can vary, and some may still fall within the breed's height standard despite mild dwarfism. This condition shows incomplete penetrance, meaning not all dogs inheriting the gene will exhibit the physical signs.

  • An autosomal recessive inherited disease in Labradors. Affected dogs develop cloudy, abnormally thin corneas due to the buildup of glycosaminoglycans. The condition causes a diffuse cloudiness in the eye, leading to impaired vision. For the disease to manifest, both parents must be at least carriers.

  • there are only three recognised coat colours for registration: Black, Yellow & Chocolate/Liver. Purebred Labrador Retrievers do not carry the dilute gene.

  • Cardiac Test by a veterinary cardiac specialist