Neet Great Danes

Health Tests for Great Danes

 Below are the basic health tests for Great Danes that are recommended by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals.  We believe that responsible breeders will follow the OFA's guidelines for testing for inherited/inheritable diseases in their gene pools.

1.  OFA Certifed Echo Cardiogram

2.  OFA Hip X-Rays

3.  OFA Shoulder X-Rays

3.  OFA Elbow X-Rays

4.  OFA Thyroid Test

5.  CERF (eyes)

Some additional exams that some breeders complete are:

1. Test for Von Willebrand's Disease

2.  Penn-Hip X-Rays

Yes, health testing is expensive!

If breeders do not health test, then, how do they know if their dogs have inheritable genetic health issues or, if they are carriers?

All potential puppy buyers can look up the health results on any dog on:

www.offa.org (just type in the dog's name in the search box)

Some breeders might not always send in the results to OFA, however, they should be able to show you the health certificates, with the results for all of the above health tests.

Our Opinion is..and...We Believe... that...

Responsible Breeders will guarantee the puppies against genetic health problems and return your money to you, or, provide another puppy to you if your dog has a genetic disease... please be sure to ask the breeders about this.

Many irresponsible  breeders will NOT spend the money to health test their dogs.  Health, longevity, our expenses, pain and suffering (and the suffering of the dogs) are not their priorities.  Taking the time to research the breeders now, will most likely save you a world of pain later. 

Please Be Patient and take the time necessary to find the right puppy for your family.  A Great Dane is a HUGE responsibility.