Health Testing
The Australian Shepherd is generally a very healthy breed and most live to between 12-15 years, but of course there are always exceptions to the rule. Most breeders do extensive health testing to ensure the breed remains as healthy as possible for generations to come.
MDR1
MDR1 is a shortening for the "multi drug resistance 1" gene, which is responsible for preventing certain chemicals and microscopic objects from passing through the blood stream into neural tissue and aiding in their elimination.
Dogs affected by the MDR1 mutation are predisposed to adverse drug reactions caused by some classes of drugs which include ivermectin as well as some gastroprotectant and anti-cancer medications. These include acepromazine, butorphanol, doxorubicin, emodepside, erythromycin, ivermectin, loperamide, milbemycin, moxidectin, rifampin, selamectin, vinblastine and vincristine. You should notify your vet if your dog is at risk for MDR1 prior to the administration of any medications.
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Hips/Elbows
Canine hip dysplasia (HD) is the most common heritable orthopaedic problem seen in dogs. It affects virtually all breeds of dogs, but is especially problematic in large and giant breeds. HD develops into a degenerative condition (osteoarthritis) of the hip joints. It is therefore recommended, and in the case of Aussies a requirement, to have breeding pairs radiographically accessed for the presence of degenerative changes and/or subluxation of the hip. The current system used for scoring radiographs for hip dysplasia in Australia is based on the system devised and used by the BVA/KC. Each hip is scored using nine different criteria and given a value between 0-6.
Eyes
In Australia, the Australian Canine Eye Scheme (ACES) is a national assessment system for ANKC registered dog breeds that offers a reliable screening service for a range of congenital and inherited eye conditions.
Eye assessments are carried out by registered veterinary eye specialists.
The program is administered by the Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) to ensure it meets national quality assurance standards. Where possible, we should try to minimise the chances of passing on painful or vision-threatening eye conditions from one generation to the next. Regular ACES certification helps breeders plan mating programs and reassure other breeders and potential owners about the soundness of their current stock. It also provides a way for breeders of valuable pedigree puppies to have whole litters checked by a qualified eye specialist to confirm normal eye development before sale, in the event of a buyer dispute occurring later. ACES exams screen for a range of eye diseases including those involving the eyelids, tear ducts and surrounding structures.