OFA and Health Testing

Our goal is to play a pivotal role in improving the health, longevity, and overall quality of the Golden Retriever breed by ensuring that both health and genetics are carefully considered in our breeding program. By prioritizing the health and genetic soundness of our dogs, we contribute not only to the well-being of individual dogs but also to the long-term vitality of the breed as a whole.

OFA

Orthopedic Foundation for Animals

OFA testing is crucial in improving the health and longevity of the Golden Retriever breed by identifying hereditary health issues that are common in the breed. Golden Retrievers are known to be prone to certain genetic conditions, including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, heart disease, and certain types of cancers. OFA testing helps breeders make informed decisions to reduce the transmission of these genetic conditions, ultimately improving the overall health of the breed.

Genetic Testing

Embark Testing

Genetic testing is increasingly recognized as a critical tool in the responsible breeding of Golden Retrievers, helping to safeguard the health and vitality of the breed. While OFA testing primarily focuses on physical conditions like hip and elbow dysplasia, genetic testing provides a deeper understanding of a dog’s inherited traits, including predispositions to certain diseases and disorders that may not yet be clinically visible.

Eye and Cardiac Testing

Eye and cardiac testing are essential aspects of responsible breeding practices for Golden Retrievers, as both breed-specific and hereditary conditions affect the eyes and heart of these dogs. Ensuring that these health aspects are evaluated and managed appropriately plays a major role in improving the overall health and quality of life for Golden Retrievers, both in terms of preventing disease and ensuring long-term well-being.

Setting puppies up for success!

ENS

Early Neurological Stimulation

Developed by the military, and known as the 'super dog program', Early Neurological Stimulation enhances the natural abilities of a dog. We get this done between day 3 and 16, it puts the puppies under mild forms of stimulation leading to 'stress' in a controlled way. These early 'stresses' have many benefits, including cardiovascular, immune system and stress tolerance. Adding these to a breeding program is can lead to better problem solving abilities later in life.

ENS includes multiple tests - holding puppy in the supine position, head down, head up, thermal stimulation and tactile stimulation.

ESI

Early Scent Introduction

Early Scent Introduction is done here at ages 2 through 4 weeks. This is where we introduce new smells every day. We give the puppies 5 seconds to engage with each new scent and record if the puppy gives a positive, negative or neutral response.

This test can be very beneficial in the dogs entire life. Dogs who participate in ESI have a more optimistic approach to new things, more confidence, fewer behavioral problems and stability. ESI is also proven to assist in successful Search & Rescue, tracking and service dogs.

T & S

Texture & Sound

Introducing puppies to new textures and sounds is done here at age 4 through 6 weeks. Every day, we introduce a new texture and sound, and record how each item affects the dogs behavior.

This test makes puppies more aware of their surroundings, more desensitized to everyday sounds and more comfortable adapting to new environments.

Comfortable = Confident

&

Confidence = happy puppies and owners!