Health Tests

The Toller is a happy, healthy and versatile breed, although no breed or dog (or person) is without the possibility of health issues. A multitude of factors are considered by breeders when deciding which individuals to pair for breeding, including but not limited to: temperaments and trainability, physical characteristics, pedigree, accomplishments in the conformation ring and/or performance venues, health, age, and type of prospective homes for puppies produced. Additional information may be provided by examinations (hip dysplasia, eye or cardiac) and/or DNA (gene) tests. DNA tests are typically associated with a specific health concern, e.g. juvenile Addison’s disease. Many DNA tests are available for domestic dogs, with more being developed each year; those available for Tollers are listed below. It is important to note that these tests are tools which can supply information and may be used in association with the other factors and exams mentioned above. Toller breeders affiliated with NSDTRC-USA make decisions on how to weigh each factor, exam or DNA for the individual pairing being considered as well as their breeding program while considering Club policies and the breed standard. Tools Available for Making Breeding Decisions Include:

Exams for:

  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Elbows
  • Patellas
  • Eyes
  • Cardiac

DNA (gene) tests for:

Additionally, the NSDTRC-USA participates in the AKC Canine Health Information Center (CHIC) program which aims to promote responsible breeding practices. Participation by Toller owner/breeders is elective, but encouraged.

CHIC is a centralized canine health database jointly sponsored by the AKC Canine Health Foundation (AKC/CHF) and the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA). The mission of CHIC is to provide a reliable source of health information for owners, breeders and scientists that will assist in breeding healthy dogs. Each participating breed club selects the tests required to be done on a dog in order for that dog to be given a CHIC number.

Tests required for the Toller CHIC program are: