At Golden Talisman Empire, we adhere to Kennel Club standards when it comes to health testing our dogs. We conduct a range of tests to assess their overall health, including genetic testing, hip and elbow evaluations, and eye examinations. By investing in thorough health checks, we aim to breed healthy and happy puppies for our clients.
Health Tests common questions
What is hip dysplasia and BVA/KC Hip Dysplasia Scheme?
Hip dysplasia is a deformity of the hip that occurs during growth. The hip joint is a ball and socket joint. During growth, both the ball (the head of the femur, or thighbone) and the socket in the pelvis (acetabulum) must grow at equal rates.
By simple words, Hip dysplasia is a complex inherited condition where the hip joint does not develop correctly. As a dog gets older, the joint undergoes wear and tear and deteriorates, leading to a loss of function. This can cause varying degrees of pain, discomfort, stiffness and lameness.
This condition has genetic (multiple genes are involved) and environmental components. The genetics are determined by the parents whereas environmental factors relate to anything other than the patient’s DNA, such as body condition, diet, etc. A dog will only develop hip dysplasia if it has the genetic programming. Environmental factors alone will not cause this condition.
The most reliable way of determining the health of a dog’s hips is by having dog x-rayed and assessed by a specialist. The x-ray is taken under anaesthesia or heavy sedation and dog's results sent to the BVA/KC Hip Dysplasia Scheme for grading.
Each hip joint is assessed by BVA/KC scrutineers who assign points based on nine aspects of each hip joint. The degree to which a dog is affected by hip dysplasia is represented by a score given to each hip. This score ranges from 0 to 106 (0 to 53 for each hip), with a score of 0 representing the least degree of hip dysplasia and 53 representing the most.
What is BVA/KC/ISDS Gonioscopy Procedure ?
Gonioscopy is a critical diagnostic procedure used by veterinary ophthalmologists to assess the drainage angle of the eye, particularly in cases related to conditions such as glaucoma. The BVA (British Veterinary Association), alongside organisations like KC (Kennel Club) and ISDS (International Sheep Dog Society), often references gonioscopy in relation to breed-specific eye health screening programmes. This examination is especially important for breeds predisposed to glaucoma or other inherited eye conditions, enabling early detection and management. Conducted using a specialised lens, gonioscopy allows detailed visualisation of the iridocorneal angle, helping to evaluate risks or existing abnormalities. Regular gonioscopy as part of health screening ensures the wellbeing of dogs while contributing to the wider goal of reducing hereditary eye problems within breeds.
Progressive Rod-Cone Degeneration (PRA-prcd)
Progressive Rod-Cone Degeneration (PRA-prcd) is a hereditary eye disease that affects many dog breeds, including Golden Retrievers. This condition causes a gradual degeneration of the photoreceptor cells in the retina, specifically the rods (responsible for low-light vision) and cones (responsible for colour and daytime vision). Over time, this leads to progressive vision loss, with night blindness often being an early symptom. As the disease advances, it can result in complete blindness.
PRA-prcd is an autosomal recessive disorder, meaning a dog must inherit the defective gene from both parents to develop the disease. Genetic testing is highly recommended for breeding programmes, as it can identify carriers and help reduce the risk of passing the condition to future generations. Responsible breeding practices are essential to minimise the prevalence of PRA-prcd in Golden Retrievers.
While there is currently no cure for PRA-prcd, affected dogs can still lead happy and fulfilling lives with proper care and adjustments to their environment. Early diagnosis can help ensure your dog’s safety and allow you to make the necessary adaptations to support their quality of life.
GR-PRA1 and GR-PRA2 mutations that cause progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
A DNA test for GR-PRA1 and GR-PRA2 in dogs identifies mutations in the SLC4A3 and TTC8 genes, which are responsible for causing progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). PRA is an inherited eye condition that leads to the gradual degeneration of the retina, ultimately resulting in vision loss. By testing for these specific genetic mutations, breeders and pet owners can determine whether a dog is clear, a carrier, or affected by these conditions. This information helps guide responsible breeding practices and ensures the long-term health and well-being of dogs.
The tRNA-Tyr and SAN (sensory ataxic neuropathy)
The tRNA-Tyr gene in golden retrievers plays a critical role in the function of mitochondria, the energy-producing structures within cells. Mutations in this gene have been linked to a rare mitochondrial disorder known as Sensory Ataxic Neuropathy (SAN). This condition affects the nervous system, leading to symptoms such as uncoordinated movement, muscle weakness, and challenges with balance. SAN is inherited maternally, as mitochondrial DNA is passed from the mother to offspring. Understanding the genetic basis of SAN in golden retrievers not only aids in better diagnosis and management but also contributes to the broader study of mitochondrial diseases across species.
What is elbow dysplasia and BVA/KC Elbow Dysplasia Scheme?
In a similar way to hip dysplasia, this condition has genetic (multiple genes are involved) and environmental components. The genetics are determined by the parents whereas environmental factors relate to anything other than the patient’s DNA, such as body condition, diet, etc. A patient will only develop hip dysplasia if it has the genetic programming. Environmental factors alone will not cause this conditionThis can cause varying degrees of pain, discomfort, stiffness and. lameness.
Each elbow joint x-ray is assessed by BVA/KC scrutineers and the degree of elbow dysplasia present is indicated by a scale of 0 to 3 (0 being the best and 3 being the most severe). Only the highest grade of the two elbows is taken as the elbow grade for that dog.
DMD or Duchenne muscular dystrophy
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a severe, inherited genetic disorder that affects the muscle function of golden retrievers, among other breeds. This condition arises due to mutations in the dystrophin gene, which is essential for maintaining muscle health and strength. Dogs with DMD often exhibit symptoms such as muscle weakness, difficulty walking, fatigue, and in some cases, respiratory or cardiac complications as the disease progresses. The onset of symptoms typically occurs at a young age, and the condition can significantly impact the quality of life for affected dogs. While there is currently no cure for DMD, early diagnosis through genetic testing and careful management of symptoms with veterinary support can help improve comfort and prolong the lifespan of dogs living with this condition. Golden retriever owners should also be aware of the importance of responsible breeding practices to help reduce the prevalence of DMD in future generations.
NCL and NCL5 are both terms for a progressive neurological disease in dogs called neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis.
This condition affects the nervous system, leading to the accumulation of harmful substances in the brain and other tissues. Over time, it can cause a variety of symptoms, including impaired movement, behavioural changes, vision loss, and seizures. NCL is an inherited disorder, meaning it is passed down through specific genetic mutations. Early diagnosis and genetic testing play a crucial role in managing the condition and informing breeding practices to help reduce its prevalence.
ICT-A (Ichthyosis)
ICT-A (Ichthyosis) is a hereditary skin condition commonly found in Golden Retrievers. This genetic disorder affects the skin's ability to properly shed dead cells, leading to a build-up of flakes or scales, often giving the skin a dry, rough appearance. While it is usually not life-threatening, it can cause discomfort or irritation for affected dogs. Symptoms may include dandruff-like scaling, thickened skin on certain areas, or a greasy texture to their coat. The condition is caused by a mutation in the PNPLA1 gene, which is passed down from both parents, meaning a dog must inherit two copies of the mutated gene to develop the disorder.
If one parent is a carrier for ichthyosis and the other parent is not a carrier (clear), then NONE of the puppies will develop ichthyosis as they will only inherit one copy of the mutated gene.
Regular grooming, moisturising shampoos, and a diet rich in omega fatty acids can help manage symptoms, although there is no permanent cure. Genetic testing is recommended for breeding dogs to reduce the risk of passing ICT-A to offspring.
It is good to know....
Whilst health testing is a valuable tool for avoiding many known inherited conditions, some are more complex and cannot currently be tested for. We are using this results wisely by balancing these with other factors such as temperament and conformation. It’s important to remember that many tests only show risk, and they can’t guarantee that a dog won’t develop or pass on certain health problems.