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Following are health screenings often performed on breeding Australian Shepherd adults; choosing a puppy from a breeder who tests parents for health can help avoid future health problems in your puppy:
Cardiac Evaluation - OFA
Collie Eye Anomaly (genetic test)
CERF Screening (Canine Eye Research Foundation)
Hip Dysplasia (OFA or PennHIP)
Multiple Drug Resistance Gene (MDR1, genetic test)
IMPORTANT: The American Kennel Club (AKC) does not recognize any size varieties of the Australian Shepherd. Descriptive words like "toy" or "miniature" are likely to indicate sizes that are below AKC breed standard. There is a concern among many reputable breeders that breeding down may be done without adequate concern for health. Since breeding for smaller size can result in significant health issues, it is important to research thoroughly any off-standard size and make sure that all appropriate health screenings are performed on adults and puppies.
