Labrador Retriever Health Tests: When They Are Performed and How the Results Affect Breeding
Labrador Retrievers are a healthy, versatile breed suitable for many families. However, responsible breeding is not based solely on affection for puppies – it relies on clear and mandatory health checks. These examinations help reduce the risk of hereditary diseases and ensure that puppies going to new homes are strong, healthy, and happy.
The health tests listed below apply to all purebred Labradors intended for breeding.
1. Hip Dysplasia Examination (HD)
When is it performed?
Minimum age – 12 months.
How is it performed?
X-ray images are evaluated by a certified veterinary doctor.
HIP (hip joint) dysplasia evaluation:
- A – No hip dysplasia
- B – Nearly normal hip joints
- C – Mild hip dysplasia
- D – Moderate hip dysplasia
- E – Severe hip dysplasia
How does it affect breeding?
- Only dogs with A and B results are allowed for breeding.
- C may be bred only with A, in exceptional cases and responsibly.
- D and E are not allowed for breeding – this would pass on hereditary disease.
2. Elbow Dysplasia Examination (ED)
When is it performed?
From 12 months, usually together with the hip examination.
ED grading:
0 – No elbow dysplasia
1 – Mild osteoarthritis
2 – Moderate osteoarthritis
3 – Severe osteoarthritis
Breeding rules:
- Only dogs with result “0” are allowed.
- Grades 1, 2, and 3 are not permitted, as elbow dysplasia is hereditary.
3. Eye Examination (ECVO)
When is it performed?
From 12 months. The exam is mandatory every two years because eye diseases may develop later.
What does it detect?
- Cataract
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
- Entropion, ectropion
- Other hereditary eye disorders
Breeding rules:
- Distichiasis, Corneal Dystrophy, Focal/Multifocal Retinal Dysplasia (RD) – ❕ Breeding allowed with a healthy partner.
- Entropion, Iris Melanoma, Hereditary Retinal Pigment Epithelium Dystrophy (RPED), Central PRA (cPRA), congenital cataract, Geographic Retinal Dysplasia (RD) – ❗ Not allowed for breeding.
- Persistent Pupillary Membrane (PPM), Persistent Hyperplastic Tunica Vasculosa Lentis, Persistent Hyperplastic Primary Vitreous (PHTVL/PHPV), Iris cysts – ❗ Must be recorded.
- Total Retinal Dysplasia (RD), Retinal Dysplasia with skeletal abnormalities – ❗ Not allowed for breeding; parents cannot be bred.
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) – ❗ Not allowed for breeding; parents cannot be bred, siblings are recommended to be excluded.
4. Genetic (DNA) Tests
Three main hereditary disease tests are required in Labradors:
a) PRA-prcd (Progressive Retinal Atrophy)
Causes blindness, usually in adulthood.
b) EIC (Exercise Induced Collapse)
Dog experiences muscle weakness and collapses after intense exercise.
c) HNPK (Hereditary Nasal Parakeratosis)
Affects the nose skin, causing crusting.
Genetic results:
N/N – Clear
N/M – Carrier
M/M – Affected
Breeding rules:
N/N × N/N – ideal
N/N × N/M – allowed; puppies may be carriers but will not be affected
N/M × N/M – not allowed (50% of puppies will be affected)
Any breeding with M/M – strictly forbidden
5. Heart Examination (not mandatory but recommended)
Ultrasound is used to detect hereditary heart conditions.
Usually performed if there are suspicions or a family history of cardiac issues.
How health tests determine breeding quality
✔ Prevent hereditary diseases
Tests allow breeders to select only healthy, suitable dogs, reducing the risk of genetic problems in puppies.
✔ Increase kennel reputation
Families want healthy puppies. When tests are done, buyers clearly see professionalism and responsibility.
✔ Ensure puppy well-being
The better the parents’ health results, the greater the chance that puppies will grow up strong and healthy.
✔ Reduce veterinary expenses in the future
Prevention is always cheaper than treatment.
Conclusion: Health tests are an investment in the future of the breed
Responsible Labrador Retriever breeding is not just a formality – it is a genuine commitment to the health of the puppies, preservation of the breed, and peace of mind for future families. Every test, from hip evaluations to genetic screening, helps breeders make informed decisions and gives buyers confidence that their future family member comes from trustworthy, ethical hands.
The more breeders follow these standards, the stronger, healthier, and happier the entire breed becomes. By walking this path, we not only improve the quality of life for the dogs but also strengthen trust in kennels that work honestly and transparently.
Ultimately, the best investment is healthy parents, responsible choices, and love for this wonderful breed. A Labrador will always repay you with loyalty, gentleness, and an everlasting smile.
