Dog Breeder Health Testing: What Puppy Buyers Should Request

Understand the difference between a puppy checkup, DNA testing, and breed-specific screening of breeding dogs.

A puppy exam is not parent health testing

A veterinary examination of the puppy is important, but it does not replace evaluation of the breeding dogs for inherited risks. Ask for the registered names or identifying details of both parents and the actual results.

• Separate routine veterinary care from orthopedic, eye, cardiac, or genetic screening.
• Ask which tests are recommended for this specific breed.
• Check dates, ages at testing, and whether results are final or preliminary.

Use breed-specific recommendations

The AKC notes that testing requirements originate with recognized national breed parent clubs. Different breeds have different risk profiles, so one generic DNA panel should not be presented as complete testing for every breed.

• Review the parent club’s current health testing recommendations.
• Use public databases such as OFA when applicable to confirm records.
• Ask the breeder to explain any carrier result and the planned pairing.

Understand what results can and cannot promise

Testing reduces avoidable risk and supports informed breeding decisions, but it cannot guarantee that every puppy will remain free from every condition. Be cautious when marketing language turns testing into an absolute guarantee.

• Read the contract’s health terms alongside the test results.
• Share records with your veterinarian for context.
• Prefer breeders who discuss uncertainty honestly.

Key takeaway

Good health testing is specific, documented, verifiable, and relevant to the breed—not simply a badge or a claim in a listing.