Breed-specific requirements and recommendations

Schnauzer

To make sure that our Assured Breeders produce the healthiest puppies possible, we require them to only breed from dogs that have been health screened, using tests and health schemes that are appropriate to their breed.

We work with breed clubs, researchers and veterinary organisations to maintain a list of breed specific health and welfare considerations. Some of these must be carried out by our Assured Breeders (known as requirements) and others are expected to be carried out (known as recommendations).

What is meant by a ‘requirement’?
  • These are health tests and screening schemes that must be carried out by Assured Breeders and need to be carried out on any male and female dogs before they are used for mating
  • To make sure our Assured Breeders are carrying out these requirements, we run automated checks on both the dam and the sire before we process their litter applications
  • Because our checks are automated, all requirements are restricted to health tests and screening schemes that are recognised by us (i.e., official Kennel Club schemes), and whose results are recorded on our database and published on our Health Test Results Finder
What is meant by a ‘recommendation’?
  • These are health tests, screening schemes, breed club schemes or welfare considerations that we expect our Assured Breeders to use or follow
  • To make sure our Assured Breeders are carrying out these recommendations, our assessors check that they are being followed at the time of a breeder visit, or as necessary
  • Recommendations can include anything that impacts the health or welfare of the breeding dogs, or the puppies they produce, and are not restricted to health tests and schemes that we record the results for

Requirements and recommendations for dogs used for breeding

Assured breeders must use the requirements set out below, and are expected to follow the recommendations, for both the sire and dam of any litter registered.

Before mating their dogs, Assured Breeders must carefully evaluate any test results and follow any breeding advice issued under each relevant scheme.

Breeds A to C
Breeds Requirements for health screening of breeding stock Recommendations for health screening of breeding stock
Affenpinscher None 1. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating

Breed club – Patella testing
Afghan Hound None 1. Bitches under 2 years not to produce a litter
2.Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Airedale Terrier Hip scoring 1. Bitches under two years not to be mated
2. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Akita Hip scoring 1. Eye testing
2. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Alaskan Malamute 1. Hip scoring
2. Eye testing
1. Bitches not to be mated before third season
2. Bitches under two years not to produce a litter
3. Bitches not to produce more than one litter within a 12-month period
4. DNA test - Alaskan Malamute Polyneuropathy (AMPN)
5. DNA test - Cone degeneration
6. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Anatolian Shepherd Dog Hip scoring Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Australian Cattle Dog 1. DNA test - prcd-PRA
2. Eye testing
1. Hip scoring
2. Elbow grading
3. BAER testing (deafness)
4. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Australian Shepherd 1. Hip scoring
2. DNA test - HC-HSF4
3. Eye testing
1. Elbow grading
2. DNA test - CEA/CH
3. DNA test - MDR1
4. DNA test - prcd-PRA
5. DNA test - Cobalamin Malabsorption
6. Blood test for Pelger-Huet Anomaly
7. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Australian Silky Terrier None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Australian Terrier None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Azawakh (Imp) None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Barbet (Imp) None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Basenji None 1. Eye testing
2. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Basset Bleu De Gascogne (Imp) None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Basset Fauve De Bretagne None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Basset Griffon Vendeen (Grand) None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Basset Griffon Vendeen (Petit) 1. DNA test - Primary Open Angle Glaucoma (POAG) 1. Eye testing
2. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Basset Hound 1. Eye testing - PLA (Gonioscopy)
2. Eye testing
1. Elbow grading
2. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating

Breed club – Basset Hound Health Group Health Certificate
Bavarian Mountain Hound (Imp) Hip scoring 1. Bitches under 2 years not to produce a litter
2. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating

Breed club – aptitude test
Beagle

1. DNA test - Musladin-Lueke syndrome (MLS)

2. DNA test - Lafora’s disease

1. DNA test - NCCD
2. Bitches under 18 months not to produce a litter
3. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Bearded Collie Hip scoring 1. DNA test - CEA
2. Eye testing
3. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Beauceron (Imp) Hip scoring 1. Eye testing
2. Bitches not to produce more than one litter within a 12-month period
3. Bitches under 2 years not to produce a litter
4. No puppy to leave the breeder before eight weeks
5. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Bedlington Terrier None 1. Eye testing
2. DNA test - COMMD1 (Copper toxicosis)
3. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) 1. Hip scoring
2. Eye testing
Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Belgian Shepherd Dog (Laekenois) 1. Hip scoring
2. Eye testing
Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) 1. Hip scoring
2. Eye testing
Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervueren) 1. Hip scoring
2. Eye testing
Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Bergamasco (Imp) None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Bernese Mountain Dog 1. Hip scoring
2. Elbow grading
1. Bitches under 2 years not to produce a litter
2. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Bichon Frise 1. Eye Testing Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Black & Tan Coonhound (Imp) None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Bloodhound None

1. Hip scoring
2. Elbow grading
3. Eye testing
4. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating

Bolognese None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Border Collie 1. Hip scoring
2. Eye testing
3. Eye Testing - PLA (Gonioscopy)
4. DNA test - CEA
5. DNA test - NCL
6. DNA test - TNS
7. DNA test - GGD (Gonio)
8. DNA test - SN
9. DNA test - IGS
10. DNA test - MDR1
1. DNA test - Raine's syndrome
2. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Border Terrier None 1. DNA test - SLEM
2. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Borzoi None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Boston Terrier 1. Eye testing
2. DNA test - HC-HSF4
Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Bouvier Des Flandres None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Boxer None 1. Hip scoring
2. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating

Breed club – Heart testing (aortic stenosis)
Bracco Italiano None 1. Hip scoring
2. Elbow grading
3. Eye Testing
4. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Braque D’Auvergne (IMP) Hip scoring 1. Eye testing
2. Bitches under 2 years not to produce a litter
3. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Briard 1. Hip scoring
2. DNA test - CSNB
3. Eye testing
Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Brittany Hip scoring Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Bull Terrier (Miniature) 1. DNA test - PLL 1.Eye testing
2. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating

Breed club – heart testing
Breed club - kidney testing
Bull Terrier None 1. BAER testing
2. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating

Breed club - heart testing
Breed club kidney testing
Bulldog Respiratory Function Grading Scheme 1. DNA test - HUU
2. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating

Breed club – Bulldog Breed Council Health Scheme
Bullmastiff Hip scoring 1. Elbow grading
2. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Cairn Terrier None 1. Eye testing
2. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating

Breed club – Bile acid testing of puppies
Canaan Dog None 1. Eye testing
2. Hip scoring
3.Check inbreeding calculators for each mating

Breed club – Patella testing
Breed club – Check for cryptorchidism
Canadian Eskimo Dog None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Catalan Sheepdog Hip scoring 1. Eye testing
2. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel 1. Eye testing
2. DNA test - EF
3. DNA test - CC/DE
4. The Kennel Club Heart Scheme for Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, supported by the Veterinary Cardiovascular Society
1. BVA/KC CM/SM Syringomyelia test
2. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Cesky Terrier None 1. Eye testing
2. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Chihuahua (Long Coat) None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Chihuahua (Smooth Coat) None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Chinese Crested None 1. DNA test - PLL
2. DNA test - prcd-PRA
3. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Chow Chow None 1. Hip scoring
2. Elbow grading
3. Eye testing
4. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating

Breed club – Chow Chow Breed Council Health Assessment
Cirneco dell’Etna None 1. No stud dog to be used under 18 months of age
2. Bitches under two years not to be mated
3. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Collie (Rough) 1. Hip scoring
2. Eye testing
1. DNA test - CEA
2. DNA test - MDR1
3. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Collie (Smooth) Eye testing 1. Hip scoring
2. DNA test - CEA
3. DNA test - MDR1
4. Litter screening for CEA
5. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Coton De Tulear None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Breeds D to G
Breeds Requirements for health screening of breeding stock Recommendations for health screening of breeding stock
Dachshund (Long Haired) None 1. IVDD screening
2. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Dachshund (Miniature Long-haired) 1. DNA test - GPRA (cord 1) 1. IVDD screening
2. Eye testing
3. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Dachshund (Miniature Smooth-haired) DNA test - GPRA (cord 1) 1. IVDD screening
2. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Dachshund (Miniature Wire-haired) 1. DNA test - GPRA (cord 1)
2. DNA test - Lafora’s disease
1. IVDD screening
2. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Dachshund (Smooth Haired) None 1. IVDD screening
2. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Dachshund (Wire Haired) None 1. IVDD screening
2. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Dalmatian BAER testing of puppies (deafness) 1. Hip scoring
2. Bitches under 2 years not to produce a litter
3. Bitches not to produce more than one litter within a 12-month period
4. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Dandie Dinmont Terrier Eye testing - PLA (Gonioscopy) 1.Eye testing
2.Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Deerhound None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating

Breed club – Litters to be screened for liver shunt prior to being sold
Dobermann 1. Hip scoring
2. DNA test - vWD
1. Dogs to be eye tested minimum of once prior to being used for breeding (PHPV)
2. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Dogue de Bordeaux 1. Hip scoring
2. Elbow scoring
Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
English Setter Hip scoring 1. Bitches under 2 years not to produce a litter
2. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
English Toy Terrier (Black & Tan) None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating

Breed club – patella luxation
Entlebucher Mountain Dog (Imp) None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Estrela Mountain Dog 1. Hip scoring
2. Elbow grading
1. Eye testing
2. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Eurasier 1. Hip scoring
2. Eye testing
3. Elbow grading
Check inbreeding calculators for each mating

Breed club – patella luxation
Finnish Spitz None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Fox Terrier (Smooth) Eye testing Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Fox Terrier (Wire) Eye testing Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Finnish Lapphund 1. Hip scoring
2. Eye testing
3. DNA test - prcd-PRA
1. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
2. DNA test - Glycogen storage disease (GSDII)
French Bulldog Respiratory Function Grading Scheme 1. DNA test - HC-HSF4
2. Eye testing
3. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating

Breed club – Participation in the French Bulldog Health Scheme
German Shepherd Dog 1. Hip scoring
2. DNA test - DM
3. Elbow grading
1. Eye testing
2. Bitches under 2 years not to produce a litter
3. No stud dog to be used under 18 months of age
4. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating

Breed club – haemophilia testing in males
German Shorthaired Pointer Hip scoring 1. Bitches under 2 years not to produce a litter
2. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
German Spitz (Klein) None 1. Eye testing
2. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
German Spitz (Mittel) None 1. Eye testing
2. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
German Wirehaired Pointer 1. Hip scoring
2. Genetic status of breeding stock with respect to vWD should be known, either by direct DNA testing or by inference from parental DNA test results
3. Elbow grading
Check inbreeding calculators for each mating

Breed club – heart testing (echocardiogram)
Giant Schnauzer Eye testing 1. Hip scoring
2. Eye testing (litter screening)
3. DNA test - prcd-PRA
4. DNA test - DCM
5. DNA test PRA5
6. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Glen of Imaal Terrier 1. DNA test - PRA (crd3)
2. Eye testing
Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Gordon Setter 1. Hip scoring
2. DNA test - PRA (rcd4)
3. Eye testing
1. Bitches under 21 months not to produce a litter
2. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Grand Bleu De Gascogne (Imp) None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Great Dane None 1. Hip scoring
2. Bitches under 2 years not to produce a litter
3. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating

Breed club – heart testing (cardiomyopathy)
Great Swiss Mountain Dog None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Greenland Dog  None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Greyhound None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Griffon Bruxellois None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Griffon Fauve De Bretagne (Imp) None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Breeds H to P
Breeds Requirements for health screening of breeding stock Recommendations for health screening of breeding stock
Hamiltonstovare None 1. Bitches under 2 years not to produce a litter
2. Bitches not to produce more than one litter within a 12-month period
3. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Harrier None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Havanese None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Hovawart Hip scoring Check inbreeding calculators for each mating

Breed club – thyroid function test
Hungarian Kuvasz (Imp) None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Hungarian Puli 1. Hip scoring
2. Eye testing
1. Bitches under 18 months not to be mated
2. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Hungarian Pumi None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Hungarian Vizsla 1. Hip scoring
2. Eye testing
3. Eye testing - PLA (Gonioscopy)
4. Elbow grading
1. Bitches under 2 years not to produce a litter
2. Bitches not to produce more than one litter within a 12-month period
3. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Hungarian Wirehaired Vizsla Hip scoring 1. Bitches under 2 years not to produce a litter
2. Bitches not to produce more than one litter within a 12-month period
3. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Ibizan Hound None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Irish Red & White Setter 1. Eye testing
2. DNA test - CLAD
1. Hip scoring
2. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Irish Setter 1. Hip scoring
2. DNA test - CLAD
3. DNA test - PRA (rcd1)
4. DNA test - PRA (rcd4)
5. Eye testing
1. Bitches under 2 years not to produce a litter
2. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Irish Terrier None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Irish Wolfhound Eye testing 1.  All hounds used for breeding take part annually in a heart testing scheme approved by the Irish Wolfhound Club: the minimum requirement being examination by stethoscope, ECG and ultrasound scan
2. Bitches under 2 years not to produce a litter
3. Bitches over 6 years not to produce a litter
4. Bitches not to produce more than one litter within a 12-month period
5. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating

Breed club - liver shunt testing of all puppies prior to being sold
Italian Greyhound None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Italian Spinone 1. Hip scoring

2. DNA (linkage) test - CA

1. Bitches under 2 years not to produce a litter
2. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating

Jack Russell Terrier None 1. DNA test - LOA
2. DNA test - PLL
3. DNA test - SCA
4. Eye testing
5. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Japanese Shiba Inu 1. Eye testing - PLA (Gonioscopy)
2. Eye testing
Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Japanese Chin None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Japanese Spitz None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Keeshond 1.Hip scoring
2.Elbow grading
1.Eye testing
2. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Kerry Blue Terrier None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
King Charles Spaniel None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Komondor None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Kooikerhondje None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Korean Jindo (Imp) None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Korthals Griffon (Imp) None 1. Hip scoring
2. Elbow grading
3. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Lagotto Romagnolo DNA test - Juvenile Epilepsy (JE) 1. Hip scoring
2. Elbow grading
3. DNA test - Lysosomal Storage Disease (LSD)
4. Eye testing
5. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Lakeland Terrier None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Lancashire Heeler 1. Eye testing
2. DNA test - PLL
3. DNA test - CEA
Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Large Munsterlander 1. Hip scoring
2. Eye testing
3. Elbow grading
4. DNA test - HUU
Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Leonberger 1. Hip scoring
2. Eye testing
3. Eye testing - PLA (Gonioscopy)
4. Elbow grading
5. DNA test - LPN1
6. DNA test - LPN2
7. DNA test - LEMP
1. Bitches under 2 years not to produce a litter
2. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Lhasa Apso 1. DNA test - PRA4 Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Lowchen (Little Lion Dog) None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Maltese None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Manchester Terrier DNA test - vWD Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Maremma Sheepdog Hip scoring Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Mastiff Hip scoring 1. Elbow grading
2. Bitches under 20 months not to produce a litter
3. Bitches over 6 years not to produce a litter
4. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Miniature Pinscher None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating

Breed club - patella testing
Miniature Schnauzer 1. Eye testing
2. DNA test - MAC
1. Eye testing (litter screening)
2. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Neapolitan Mastiff None 1. Hip scoring
2. Eye testing
3. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating

Breed club – Seek breed club advice on heart testing
Newfoundland 1. Hip scoring
2. DNA test - Cystinuria (CU)
3. Elbow grading
1. Bitches under 2 years not to produce a litter
2. Bitches over 7 years not to produce a litter
3. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating

Breed club – heart testing
Norfolk Terrier None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Norwegian Buhund 1. Hip scoring
2. Eye testing
1. DNA test - CA HCA
2. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Norwegian Elkhound 1. Hip scoring
2. DNA test - prcd-PRA
3. Eye testing
Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Old English Sheepdog 1. Hip scoring
2. Eye testing
1. DNA test - PCD
2. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Otterhound 1. Hip scoring
2. Elbow grading
Check inbreeding calculators for each mating

Breed club – advice on epilepsy/ fitting
Papillon 1. DNA test - pap-PRA1
2. Eye testing
1. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
2. DNA test - NAD

Breed club – patella testing
Parson Russell Terrier 1. DNA test - PLL
2. DNA test - Late Onset Ataxia (LOA)
3. DNA test - Spinocerebellar Ataxia (SCA)
4. Eye testing
Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Pekingese None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Pharaoh Hound None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating

Breed club – patella testing
Picardy Sheepdog (Imp) None 1. Hip scoring
2. Elbow grading
3. Eye testing
4. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Pointer None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Polish Lowland Sheepdog Hip scoring Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Pomeranian None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Poodle (Miniature) 1. DNA test - prcd-PRA
2. Eye testing
Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Poodle (Standard) 1. Hip scoring
2. Eye testing
1. DNA test - prcd-PRA
2. DNA test - PRA (rcd4)
3.Check inbreeding calculators for each mating

Breed club – sebaceous adenitis testing
Poodle (Toy) 1. DNA test - prcd-PRA
2. Eye testing
Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Portuguese Podengo None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Portuguese Pointer (Imp) None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Portuguese Water Dog 1. Hip scoring
2. Elbow grading
3. DNA test - prcd-PRA
1. DNA test - GM1 (gangliosidosis)
2.Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Pug Respiratory Function Grading Scheme Check inbreeding calculators for each mating

Breed club – Hemivertebrae (HV) checking of parents by x-ray after 12 months of age
Breed club – patella testing
Breed club – National Pug Health Scheme*
Pyrenean Mastiff None 1. Hip scoring
2. Eye testing
3. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Pyrenean Mountain Dog Hip scoring Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Pyrenean Sheepdog None 1. Hip scoring
2. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating

Breed club – heart testing (puppies) for patent ductus arteriosus (PDA)
Breeds R to W
Breeds Requirements for health screening of breeding stock Recommendations for health screening of breeding stock
Retriever (Chesapeake Bay) 1. Hip scoring
2. Eye testing
3. Elbow grading
4) DNA Test - DM
1. DNA test - prcd-PRA
2. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Retriever (Curly Coated) Hip scoring Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Retriever (Flat Coated) 1. Hip scoring
2. Eye Testing - PLA (Gonioscopy)
3. Eye testing
1. Bitches under 2 years not to produce a litter
2. Bitches not to produce more than three litters in their lifetime
3. Bitches not to produce more than one litter within a 12-month period
4. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Retriever (Golden) 1. Hip scoring
2. Eye testing
3. Elbow grading
4. Eye testing - PLA (Gonioscopy)
1. Bitches under 18 months not to produce a litter
2. Bitches not to produce more than one litter within a 12-month period
3. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Retriever (Labrador) 1. Hip scoring
2. Eye testing
3. Elbow grading
1. DNA test - prcd-PRA
2. DNA test - CNM
3. DNA test - EIC 
4. DNA test - HNPK
5. DNA test - SD2
6. DNA test - MCD
7. DNA test - STGD
8. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Retriever (Nova Scotia Duck Tolling) 1. Hip scoring
2. DNA test - prcd-PRA
3. DNA test - CEA
4. DNA test - Degenerative Encephalopathy (DE)
5. Eye testing
1. Bitches under 2 years not to produce a litter
2. Bitches not to produce more than one litter within a 12-month period
3. Dogs under 2 years not to be used at stud
4. DNA test - Degenerative Myelopathy (DM)
5. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Rhodesian Ridgeback 1. Hip scoring
2. DNA test -JME
1. Bitches under 2 years not to produce a litter
2. Bitches not to produce more than three litters in their lifetime
3. Bitches not to produce more than one litter within a 12-month period
4. Elbow grading
5. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating

Breed club – dermoid sinus check (puppies)
Rottweiler 1. Hip scoring
2. Elbow grading
3. Eye testing*
1. Bitches under 2 years not to produce a litter
2. Bitches not to produce more than one litter within a 12-month period
3. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Russian Black Terrier 1. Elbow grading
2. Hip scoring
1. DNA test - HUU
2. Bitches under 2 years not to produce a litter
3. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating

Breed club – Breeders should issue grooming advice
Russian Toy None 1. Eye testing
2. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating

Breed club – patella testing
Saluki None 1. DNA test - Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis (NCL)
2. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Samoyed Hip scoring 1. Eye Testing
2. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating

Breed club – Breeders should issue grooming advice
Schipperke None 1. DNA test - MPS IIIB
2. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Schnauzer None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Scottish Terrier None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Sealyham Terrier 1. DNA test - PLL
2. Eye testing
Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Shar Pei Eye testing 1. Bitches under 2 years not to produce a litter
2. DNA test - POAG/PLL
3. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Shetland Sheepdog Eye testing 1. Hip scoring
2. DNA test - CEA
3. DNA test - BBS2-PRA
4. DNA test - CNAGA1-PRA
5. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Shih Tzu None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Siberian Husky 1. Hip scoring
2. Eye testing
3. Eye testing - PLA (Gonioscopy)
Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Skye Terrier None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Sloughi None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Slovakian Rough Haired Pointer (Imp) None 1. Hip scoring
2. Bitches under 2 years not to produce a litter
3. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Small Munsterlander (Imp) None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier None 1. Hip scoring
2. Eye testing
3. Bitches under 2 years not to be mated
4. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating

Breed club – kidney function test
Spaniel (American Cocker) 1. Eye testing
2. Eye testing - PLA (Gonioscopy)
1. DNA test - prcd-PRA
2. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Spaniel (Clumber) 1. Hip scoring
2. DNA test - EIC
1. DNA test - PDP1
2. Eye testing
3. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Spaniel (Cocker) 1. Eye testing
2. DNA test - prcd-PRA
3. DNA test - FN
4. DNA test - AMS
5. Eye testing - PLA (Gonioscopy)

Hip scoring
Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Spaniel (English Springer) 1. DNA test - PRA (cord 1)
2. Eye testing
3. Eye testing - PLA (Gonioscopy)
4. DNA test - Fuco
1. Hip scoring
2. DNA test - PFK
3. Bitches under 20 months not to produce a litter
4. Bitches not to produce more than one litter within a 12-month period
5. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Spaniel (Field) Hip scoring 1. Eye testing
2. Bitches under 18 months not to produce a litter
3. Bitches not to produce more than one litter within a 12-month period
4. No stud dog to be used under 12 months of age
5. DNA of breeding stock to be held at The Kennel Club Genetics Centre (previously the Animal Health Trust)
6. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Spaniel (Irish Water) 1. Hip scoring
2. Elbow grading
1. Eye testing
2. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Spaniel (Sussex) None 1. Hip scoring
2. Eye testing 
2. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Spaniel (Welsh Springer) 1. Hip scoring
2. Eye testing - PLA (Gonioscopy)
1. Eye testing
2. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Spanish Water Dog 1. Hip scoring
2. Eye testing - PLA (Gonioscopy)
3. DNA test - prcd-PRA
4. Eye testing
1. Bitches under 2 years not to produce a litter
2. Bitches not to produce more than one litter within a 12-month period
3. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
St Bernard Hip scoring 1. Bitches under 2 years not to produce a litter
2. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Staffordshire Bull Terrier 1. Eye testing
2. DNA test - HC-HSF4
3. DNA test - L2-HGA
1. Litter eye screening for PHPV
2. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Swedish Lapphund None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Swedish Vallhund 1. Hip scoring
2. Eye testing
1. DNA test - Retinopathy
2. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Tibetan Mastiff Hip scoring 1. Elbow grading
2. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Tibetan Spaniel Eye testing 1. Bitches not to produce more than one litter within a 12-month period
2. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Tibetan Terrier 1. Eye testing
2. Hip scoring
3. DNA test - PLL
4. DNA test - NCL
5. DNA test - PRA (rcd4)
6. DNA test - PRA3
Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Turkish Kangal Dog None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Weimaraner Hip scoring 1. Bitches under 2 years not to produce a litter
2. Bitches not to produce more than one litter within a 12-month period
3. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Welsh Corgi (Cardigan) 1. DNA test - PRA (rcd3)
2. Eye testing
Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Welsh Corgi (Pembroke) None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Welsh Terrier None q. DNA test - PLL
2. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
West Highland White Terrier None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Whippet None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating

Breed club – heart testing (auscultation)
White Swiss Shepherd Dog 1. Hip scoring
2. Elbow grading
1. DNA profiling
2. Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Xoloitzcuintle (Nex Hairless) Int (Imp) None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Xoloitzcuintle (Mex Hairless) Min (Imp) None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Xoloitzcuintle (Mex Hairless) Std (Imp) None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating
Yorkshire Terrier None Check inbreeding calculators for each mating

* Breeds and health tests marked with an asterisk are either new additions to this list or have had a recent change to their requirements and/or recommendations. Existing Assured Breeders have a six-month period of grace before compliance with new requirements and/or recommendations comes into effect.

Request a PDF version of the breed-specific requirements and recommendations including health screening.

Important information about health tests and screening schemes

BAER testing

BAER (Brainstem auditory evoked response) testing is most commonly conducted on litters aged between 5½ and 6½ weeks, but can also be conducted on adults. It provides an accurate indication of the hearing status of the individual dog, which can be either bilaterally deaf (hearing impaired in both ears), unilaterally deaf (hearing impaired in one ear) or unaffected (normal hearing in both ears). Individual dogs must be microchipped and Kennel Club registered prior to testing.

View a list of BAER testing centres in the UK

CM/SM screening

BVA/KC CM/SM screening assesses MRI scans for signs of, and the degree to which, a dog may be affected by CM (Chiari-like malformation) and SM (syringomyelia). CM is a fault in the development of the skull, causing part of the brain to protrude at the back of the skull. SM refers to the presence of pockets that form in the spinal cord, called syrinxes. There are a number of veterinary centres that offer MRI scanning facilities using the protocol recommended by the scheme.

Read more about the CM/SM screening scheme.

DNA tests
There are various official DNA testing schemes depending on the condition concerned. Where a DNA test is a requirement for a breed, both parents must have either been tested, or have proven hereditary clear status. Breeders should never knowingly conduct matings that may produce puppies affected by a genetic condition that has a negative impact on health or welfare. Therefore, any dog or bitch that has an abnormal result (i.e. “affected” or “carrier”) for any DNA test should only be mated to an individual that is known to be clear from that condition.

Read more about DNA testing.
Elbow grading

Elbow grading should be conducted under the elbow dysplasia screening scheme.

Eye testing

Eye screening should be carried out before breeding, using the BVA/KC/ISDS eye screening scheme or the ECVO scheme. Eye examinations should be within 12 months before the date of mating. This allows breeders to be aware of any conditions affecting their dog and to be assured they are breeding from dogs with optimal eye health. Gonioscopy is a separate eye test (for predisposition to glaucoma) and, where relevant, should be repeated every three years and, for litter registration purposes, must be within three years prior to the date of mating.

Find out more about eye screening.

Hip scoring

Hip scoring should be conducted under the hip dysplasia screening scheme

Inbreeding coefficients

All Assured Breeders should refer to inbreeding coefficient calculators to assist them in making balanced breeding decisions. Breeders can use our Inbreeding Coefficient calculators, or, if available, another database that contains more pedigree information. The inbreeding coefficient of the potential litter should be considered, rather than that of each individual parent. Current guidance is that, where possible, breeders should breed at or below the breed average inbreeding coefficient. Breeders should always take into consideration the number of generations used to produce the calculation and the number of offspring already sired by the male.

Find out more about inbreeding coefficients.

IVDD Scheme

The Kennel Club/Dachshund Health UK scheme is available for all varieties of Dachshund and uses x-ray to detect the presence and severity of IVDD (Intervertebral disk disease) in an individual. The scheme assesses for spine calcifications and gives guidance to breeders on how to reduce the risk of producing puppies affected by intervertebral disc disease.

Find out more about the IVDD health scheme, including participating centres.

Respiratory Function Grading Scheme

The Kennel Club and University of Cambridge scheme tests for breathing ability (brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome, otherwise known as BOAS) and should be used for all breeding stock over the age of 12 months, and repeated every two years, for as long as the dog is being used for breeding.

View a list of regional assessors for the scheme.

The Kennel Club Heart Scheme for Cavalier King Charles Spaniels

The Kennel Club Heart Scheme for Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, supported by the Veterinary Cardiovascular Society, assesses Cavalier King Charles Spaniels for mitral valve disease and other potentially significant heart diseases. The scheme advises owners if their dog is affected by heart disease and gives guidance to breeders on how to lower the risk of producing affected puppies. The scheme should be used for all breeding stock over the age of 18 months, and repeated every two years, for as long as the dog is being used for breeding.

View a list of approved cardiologists (vets specially trained in heart conditions) who have been appointed to carry out heart grading on dogs.

Frequently asked questions

Do these requirements and recommendations only apply to the dog I own?
No, these apply to both dam and sire for every litter bred.

Can I be sent a paper copy of the requirements and recommendations?
Yes, click on the link to request a PDF version of the breed-specific requirements and recommendations including health screening.

Where can I find out more about testing and screening schemes for my breeds?
For more information, please visit our Breeds A to Z.

Who can I talk to about changing my breed's requirements and recommendations?
Requirements and recommendations are added at the request of a breed club or clubs. Contact details for all breed club secretaries are listed on Find a Club or alternatively you could contact your breed health co-ordinatior, whose details can be found in the health section of our Breeds A to Z.

Breed clubs and breed health co-ordinatiors can apply for a change to the their breeds requirements and recommendations through our online form.

Who can I contact for general enquiries about the Assured Breeders scheme?
Further information can be obtained via emailing

Assured Breeder scheme (The Kennel Club) or by calling 01296 318 540.