Recommended Tests/CHIC Program Requirements
The OFA, working with the breed's parent club, recommends the following basic health screening tests for all breeding stock. Dogs meeting these basic health screening requirements will be issued Canine Health Information Center (CHIC) numbers. For CHIC certification, all results do not need to be normal, but they must all be in the public domain so that responsible breeders can make more informed breeding decisions. For potential puppy buyers, CHIC certification is a good indicator the breeder responsibly factors good health into their selection criteria. The breed specific list below represents the basic health screening recommendations. It is not all encompassing. There may be other health screening tests appropriate for this breed. And, there may be other health concerns for which there is no commonly accepted screening protocol available.
ScreeningTesting options
Hip DysplasiaOne of the following:
OFA Evaluation (min age 24 months)
PennHIP Evaluation (min age 24 months)
International Hip Evaluation (min age 24 months)
ACVO Eye ExamEye Examination at least once between six (6) months and eight (8) years
Stationary Night BlindnessStationary Night Blindness (SNB) results from an approved lab; results registered with OFA
Autoimmune thyroiditis(Optional but recommended)
OFA evaluation from an approved laboratory
Tests must include FT4D, cTSH, and TgAA
Elbow Dysplasia(Optional but recommended)
OFA Radiographic Elbow Evaluation