Our Health Standards

Responsible breeding begins with health. Our approach is guided by verifiable health testing, long-term pedigree knowledge, and thoughtful decision-making rooted in breed preservation. When reliable testing is available, we use it. When it is not, we rely on transparency, experience, and careful monitoring over time.

All breeding dogs complete age-appropriate health testing, with results submitted to the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) and supported by Embark genetic testing when. Testing is selected based on scientific relevance and breed-specific considerations rather than a one-size-fits-all checklist. 

• OFA Hips
• OFA Patellas
• OFA Eyes (CAER)
• OFA Thyroid (when age-appropriate)
• OFA Dentition
• OFA Cardiac (when indicated)
• OFA MPS IIIB
• Embark genetic testing (200+ conditions)
• AKC DNA
• CHIC DNA Repository participation

Some health conditions, such as idiopathic epilepsy, currently have no genetic screening test. In these cases, no breeder can guarantee that a dog or pedigree is “clear.” Responsible breeding relies on honest disclosure, careful evaluation of known history, and informed decision-making over time. 

MPS IIIB is a rare inherited condition specific to Schipperkes. A DNA test is available, and all breeding dogs are tested. Carriers may live normal, healthy lives and may be placed in pet homes. Affected dogs are never bred.