At a minimum, Hips, eyes, Patella and our genetic diseases: BFJE and LSD. Many breeders also check Hearts, we have had some instances of Sub Aortic Stenosis in the Breed. Globally, we Lagotto fanciers are searching for the genetic marker for Cerebellar Abiotrophy. This disease is unfortunately fatal with an onset in late puppy hood. Additionally, breeders should be checking for the proper coat gene (it’s possible for a Lagotto to be born with a “smooth” (and shedding!) coat from two normal coated parents. There is no reason not to test for this, and no reason to produce it as we know the mode of inheritance and the genetic markers.
Check on our Health page, to read about the breeding tests that grant a dog a CHIC numbers, through the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA). This is a great discussion to have with a potential breeder. And if missing these important tests (with passing or carrier only status) on the parents? This is not the breeder for you!
