Australian Shepherd Health
Australian Shepherd Health: A Commitment to Lifelong Vitality
At Elysian Shepherds, the health of our dogs is the non-negotiable foundation of our breeding program. We believe that bringing a puppy into your family should come with the confidence and peace of mind that they have been given the healthiest possible start in life. Understanding the breed’s specific health considerations is key to providing a long, happy, and active life for your Australian Shepherd.
Core Health Considerations in the Breed
The Australian Shepherd is generally a robust and healthy breed, but like all purebred dogs, they can be predisposed to certain genetic conditions. A responsible breeder proactively tests for these.
1. Hereditary Conditions We Test For:
Hip Dysplasia: A common skeletal condition where the hip joint doesn’t form properly, which can lead to arthritis and pain. We screen our breeding stock through the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) or PennHIP to ensure we are breeding from dogs with sound hips.
Elbow Dysplasia: Similar to hip dysplasia, this affects the elbow joints. OFA screening is also standard for our breeding dogs.
Eye Disorders: Aussies can be prone to several hereditary eye conditions.
Hereditary Cataracts: Cataracts that can appear in young dogs and may lead to blindness.
Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA): A congenital disorder that can cause abnormal development of the eye.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): A degenerative disease that eventually causes blindness.
All our breeding adults are examined annually by a board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist and certified through the OFA Canine Eye Registry Foundation (CERF).
MDR1 Gene Mutation: This is a critical test for the breed.
What it is: A genetic mutation that makes a dog overly sensitive to certain common drugs, including some antiparasitics, chemotherapy drugs, and others. Affected dogs can have severe, life-threatening neurological reactions.
Our Practice: We DNA test all our dogs for the MDR1 mutation. We are committed to breeding to minimize this mutation in our lines and will provide you with your puppy’s specific MDR1 status (Normal, Carrier, or Affected) so you can inform your veterinarian.
2. Other Health Considerations to Be Aware Of:
Epilepsy: Seizure disorders can occur in the breed, often with an unknown cause (idiopathic epilepsy).
Allergies: Some Aussies can be prone to skin or food allergies, which are typically manageable with diet and medication.
Deafness: While less common, congenital deafness can occur, sometimes associated with the merle gene.
The Elysian Shepherds Health Promise
Our commitment to health is proactive and comprehensive.
Transparent Health Testing: We perform all the recommended health screenings on our breeding dogs—OFA Hips/Elbows, CERF Eye Exams, and MDR1 DNA testing. We are proud to be transparent and will happily share these clearances with serious families.
Genetic Diversity: We carefully research pedigrees to ensure healthy genetic diversity and avoid doubling up on known health issues.
Preventative Puppy Care: Our puppies are raised in a clean, home environment. They receive a thorough vet examination, age-appropriate vaccinations, and deworming protocols before they go home.
Our Health Guarantee: Every Elysian Shepherd puppy comes with a robust health guarantee that reflects our confidence in their well-being.
Your Role in Your Aussie’s Health
A great genetic start is just the beginning. As an owner, you play the most critical role.
Choose a Reputable Veterinarian: Establish a relationship with a vet you trust for regular check-ups, vaccinations, and preventative care.
Maintain a Healthy Weight: Obesity is a major contributor to joint problems, diabetes, and heart disease. Keep your Aussie at a lean, healthy weight.
Provide Appropriate Exercise: Balance high-energy activity with joint-friendly exercise, especially during the puppy growth phase.
Be Proactive: Be observant. If you notice any changes in your dog’s appetite, energy, gait, or behavior, consult your veterinarian promptly.