Health Testing to be Carried Out Before Breeding
REQUIRED HEALTH TESTS
1. Annual Eye Testing of breeding stock for Hereditary Cataracts (HC)
Giant Schnauzers are currently listed on Schedule A of the KC/BVA/ISDS Eye Scheme for Hereditary Cataracts. All dogs used for breeding should be eye tested annually for the type of cataracts known to be inherited in Giant Schnauzers before breeding takes place i.e posterior polar sub-capsular cataracts. Any other eye abnormalities can also be detected during the eye test. The sire and dam should both hold an up to date eye certificate marked as unaffected within 12 months prior to the date of any mating. Additionally, since the age of onset can occur later in life, it is advisable to continue eye testing into old age. More information about Hereditary Cataracts can be found on the link above.
Approved BVA Eye Panellists
RECOMMENDED HEALTH TESTS
1. Hip scoring of breeding stock for Hip Dysplasia (HD)
Hip scoring can be done from the age of 12 months and is currently recommended for Giant Schnauzers prior to breeding. An x-ray is taken by a vet experienced with hip positioning for scoring, and x-ray sent away to a recognised scoring specialist most often the BVA in the UK. Alternatively ANKC, FCI and OFA (from 24 months) also provide a canine hip dysplasia scoring scheme. Hips should ideally be even, and scores should be below or around the breed median, approximately 10. More information about hip dysplasia and hip scoring can be found on the link above.
Elbows can also be graded, and are often x-rayed at the same time as hips and sent away for grading along with hips. Elbow grades should ideally be 0, and it is not recommended to breed from an elbow grade above 1.
2. DNA Test prcd-PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy)
3. DNA Test PRA5 (Progressive Retinal Atrophy – NECAP1)
4. DNA Test DCM (Dilated Cardiomyopathy)
It is now a recommendation to undertake DNA testing for prcd-PRA, PRA5 and DCM, prior to breeding. More information and where to get a test can be found on the links above.
5. Eye testing (litter screening) of puppies for Multifocal Retinal Dysplasia (MRD)
It is recommended that puppy’s eyes are tested for MRD, and any other congenital abnormalities, between 5 to 12 weeks of age before they leave the breeder. The litter screen is carried out by a recognised eye panellist vet. More information about litter screening and MRD can be found on the link above.
Approved BVA Eye Panellists