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| Until recently any health issues with this breed were hidden from us,
so well in fact that we did not think there were any.
However, due to extensive research it has now been found that there are some genetic and
congenital defects in this breed.
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| Hip Dysplacia Occurences of this are not common, however have occured to devastating effect. I am glad to say that after being first to ever get Utonagan hip-scored and registered with the BVA as Utonagan, (as confirmed by the B.V.A [British Veterinary Association]), the trend is now growing. The Utonagan Society, have put into place rules stating that dogs must be hip-scored before being bred from. This is a giant leap forward for the breed, and should eradicate this very painful problem from our lines. In 2005 there were only 3 dogs on the BVA Breed Mean Scores list (Tikaani, Iskote & Willow), however the BVA update this list annually. 1st January 2006 a new breed mean score came out of 27, taken from 14 dogs. |
| Epilepsy Again, occurences are not often, and most found relate back to an epileptic bitch who has been bred from. This breeder is no longer part of The Utonagan Society. All dogs with epilepsy in their genetic lineage, are only to be test-mated to dogs without this trait. If an occurence of epilepsy is found in their pups, they are not to be bred from again. |
| Cataracts Cataracts have been found in 3 dogs under the age of 5. All potential breeding stock must now be eye-tested, and have a clear result before being considered for breeding. |
| Monorchidism Dogs with only 1 decended testis This is the most prolific genetic defect we have, fueled by breeders using monorchids in their breeding programs. If this practice is not stoped, it could produce sterile dogs and the whole breed could become extinct before it's even had a chance. All stud dogs now are to be manually tested by other breeders, and all male puppies are to be vet checked before sale. |
