Genetic Health Testing

Health Testing

We perform comprehensive genetic testing on all breeding dogs covering 15+ conditions, ensuring science-based, healthy breeding practices.

Foundation of Scientific Breeding

Border Collies are susceptible to several hereditary conditions. At ROSCH KENNEL, we perform comprehensive genetic testing on all breeding dogs to ensure zero risk of disease expression in our puppies.

Over 15 hereditary conditions are known to affect Border Collies. These conditions can be completely prevented through proper genetic testing and planned breeding. At ROSCH KENNEL, we partner with Orivet Genetics, a US-based testing laboratory, to maintain comprehensive genetic profiles of all breeding dogs.

Understanding Test Results

Clear

Clear

No copies of the mutation. Safe to breed with any dog.

Carrier

Carrier

One copy of the mutation. Will not be affected but carrier × carrier breeding is avoided.

AF

Affected

Two copies of the mutation. May be affected by the condition. Not used for breeding.

Understanding Inheritance Patterns

C

Clear x Clear = All puppies are clear (no disease risk)

C

Clear x Carrier = Puppies are clear or carrier (no disease expression)

!

Carrier x Carrier = 25% of puppies may be affected -- We NEVER do this

Test Types

A complete list of the 15 genetic and health tests performed on all our breeding dogs.

CEA

Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA)

A hereditary condition causing structural abnormalities in the eye that can lead to vision impairment or blindness.

TNS

Trapped Neutrophil Syndrome (TNS)

A fatal condition where neutrophils cannot be produced normally, causing severe immune deficiency.

CL

Ceroid Lipofuscinosis (CL)

A disease where lipofuscin accumulates in nerve cells, causing progressive neurological symptoms.

SN

Sensory Neuropathy (SN)

A condition causing sensory disturbances and motor ataxia in the limbs due to peripheral nerve abnormalities.

IGS

Imerslund-Gräsbeck Syndrome (IGS)

A condition causing growth disorders and anemia due to impaired vitamin B12 absorption.

MDR1

Multi-Drug Resistance (MDR1)

A genetic mutation that increases the risk of severe adverse reactions to certain medications.

DM

Degenerative Myelopathy (DM)

A progressive disease causing hind limb paralysis due to spinal cord degeneration. Onset typically in middle to senior age.

GCS

Glaucoma (GCS)

A condition where increased intraocular pressure damages the optic nerve, potentially leading to blindness.

PRA

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

A hereditary eye disease where the retina gradually atrophies, leading to progressive vision loss and blindness.

NCL

Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis (NCL)

A condition causing motor disorders and cognitive decline due to degeneration of nerve cells.

HC

Hereditary Cataracts (HC)

Hereditary cataracts causing lens opacity, leading to vision impairment or blindness.

EIC

Exercise Induced Collapse (EIC)

A hereditary condition causing limb weakness and collapse after intense exercise.

RS

Raine Syndrome (RS)

A condition causing skeletal development abnormalities, affecting joints and bones during growth.

HD

Hip Dysplasia (HD)

A condition where abnormal hip joint formation causes pain and impaired mobility.

ED

Elbow Dysplasia (ED)

A condition where abnormal elbow joint formation causes forelimb lameness and pain.

Our Commitment

We Never Breed Carrier x Carrier

All test results are published on each dog's profile page. We never breed carrier × carrier, maintaining zero disease expression risk.

Carrier dogs are healthy and can be safely bred with clear dogs. However, breeding carrier to carrier carries a statistical 25% risk of producing affected puppies, so we strictly exclude this combination.

Testing Laboratory

Orivet Genetics

We partner with Orivet Genetics, a US-based genetic testing laboratory trusted by breeders worldwide. Orivet provides cutting-edge testing technology and highly accurate results.

Test results are published on each dog's profile page along with certificate numbers.

View Individual Test Results

Each dog's test results are published on their individual profile page.
Transparent information is the hallmark of responsible breeding.

Meet Our Dogs