Glossary
Health testing
The screening of breeding dogs for inherited conditions, such as hip, elbow, heart, eye and DNA tests, whose results are shared with buyers.
Also called: health clearances, genetic testing parents, breeding stock health tests, health screening, health clearance
Health testing is the screening of dogs that may be bred to find out whether they carry or have conditions that can be passed on. The tests depend on the breed. Common ones are x-rays of the hips and elbows, a heart check, an eye exam and DNA tests for known inherited diseases. Results are often recorded in open databases such as OFA, so buyers can look them up.
A responsible dog breeder tests the parents before mating and shows the results. A test result shows only the specific condition it checks, so it cannot guarantee a puppy will be free of every problem. Pet owners can ask which tests the breed's national club recommends and whether the breeder follows them.
The phrase vet checked is not health testing, and a clean exam by a vet does not replace breed-specific screening. For symptoms in a pet, ask your veterinarian.
Last reviewed November 8, 2026