Success for hip and elbow dysplasia schemes
The latest data shows a sustained reduction in the incidence and severity of hip and elbow dysplasia in screened dogs.
Screening for hip and elbow dysplasia in breeding dogs is having a positive outcome for canine health, the BVA and Kennel Club said as they revealed a decline in the incidence and severity of these conditions.
Hip and elbow dysplasia schemes are run jointly by the two organisations. Using the test results, owners and breeders can make informed choices about whether to breed certain dogs, helping to produce healthier puppies and eliminate these inherited problems.
The latest data shows a sustained reduction in the incidence and severity of hip and elbow dysplasia in screened dogs.
In the past 15 years, improvements can be seen in the median hip scores of 20 out of 21 of of the most-scored breeds. The remaining breed, the Tibetan terrier, has maintained a low score for this period.
Results from the elbow dysplasia scheme, dating back to 1998, show a higher percentage of dogs from all breeds are achieving a grade 0 (normal elbows) and fewer dogs are being scored 1, 2 and 3 (affected).
BVA president Sean Wensley said: "The latest statistics from Canine Health Schemes clearly demonstrate that responsible breeding, supported by testing, can make a difference to the health and welfare of dogs.
“Health considerations are particularly important when it comes to mating, and it is vital that the risk of passing on inherited conditions is continually reduced.
"The hip and elbow dysplasia tests are extremely useful tools for breeders and vets, both of whom want to ensure the health and welfare of future generations of dogs."
Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.
