At JW Doodles, we are committed to the health and well-being of the wonderful puppies we bring into the world. It’s not just about producing adorable companions, but ensuring that our dogs live long, healthy, and fulfilling lives. For this reason, we consider comprehensive genetic and health testing a fundamental part of ethical and responsible breeding.
Why Test? Preventing Hereditary Ailments
Dogs, like humans, can carry genes that increase their risk of developing certain diseases. Many of these have profound effects on their quality of life. Genetic and health tests allow us to identify potential issues in our breeding stock. Here are some key benefits of testing:
- Minimizing future ailments: Testing helps us select breeding pairs that are unlikely to pass on harmful genes, ensuring that your puppy has the best chance at enjoying a disease-free life.
- Targeted healthcare: Understanding genetic risks lets you and your veterinarian proactively monitor your dog throughout its life and take preventive measures when necessary.
- Breed improvement: By avoiding breeding carriers of detrimental genes, we contribute to the overall health and longevity of the doodle breed.
What Kind of Tests Are Available?
We work with trusted canine health testing providers that offer a range of assessments, including:
- DNA-based genetic testing: Identifies hundreds of mutations linked to genetic diseases such as degenerative myelopathy or exercise-induced collapse.
- Hip & elbow evaluations: X-rays to check for dysplasia, which can cause painful arthritis. These evaluations are important for larger breeds to assess risks for joint issues.
- Eye exams: These are recommended by organizations like the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) to look for inherited eye conditions such as cataracts.
- Cardiac testing: Checks for signs of heart problems, particularly in breeds susceptible to certain cardiac conditions.
Our Testing Partners
JW Doodles is proud to partner with some of the top veterinary institutions and labs specializing in canine genetics and health:
- UC Davis Veterinary Genetics Laboratory: An established leader in canine health research and advanced genetic testing. (https://vgl.ucdavis.edu/)
- Embark Veterinary: Known for comprehensive breed identification and in-depth DNA tests exploring genetic health risks. (https://embarkvet.com/)
- Paw Print Genetics: Provides a broad panel of genetic testing options and easy-to-understand results. (https://www.pawprintgenetics.com/)
- Animal Genetics: A trusted choice with experience in a wide array of DNA tests and canine health screenings. (https://www.animalgenetics.us/)
JW Doodles’ Commitment to Your Puppy’s Health
We carefully vet and test all our breeding dogs. When you choose one of our puppies, you know that we’ve taken every possible step to ensure its health. You’ll receive detailed documentation about the health tests your puppy’s parents have undergone. Your doodle deserves the gift of a happy and healthy life, and we’re fully committed to helping make that a reality!
Have Questions?
Breeding responsibly can be complex, and we are here to guide you! If you’d like to learn more about our policies, feel free to contact us, and we’ll be happy to discuss our practices and provide further resources.