Much like humans, genetics play a very important role in a dog's development. A dog's physical traits and habits are often determined by DNA. DNA research has grown leaps and bounds over the years and helps establish a dog's health very early on in their life. Unfortunately for some dogs, genetics can play a role in diseases and future health problems. One of the best ways to protect yourself from getting a puppy with many health problems is through OFA Certification. 

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OFA stands for the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals. Before blood-based and DNA  genetic testing became readily available, one of the only ways to track orthopedic issues in dogs was through x-rays, rating them, and then listing them in a public database. 

 

Two of the main ways OFA helps us to identify dogs with genetic health issues that they may pass on to their puppies is through x-rays of the hip and elbow joints to check for dysplasia. Dysplasia is a complicated, multifactorial disease. It's defined as a looseness in the joint, causing the junction of the femur (thigh bone) and the pelvis to wobble and be unstable. It's a ball and socket joint with the head of the femur as the ball and pelvis as the socket. The socket needs to be deep enough to cover the ball without it slipping around. If the socket is shallow, there is looseness or instability. This instability leads to bone on bone rubbing and that is where the pain comes in. This friction erodes the cartilage that normally stays between the 2 bones to provide cushioning. Damaged cartilage means more friction and more pain. The destruction of the cartilage leads to arthritis (inflammation of the joint.)

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One study showed that even if two parents have good hips by OFA standards, 1 in 4 of the puppies may still develop hip dysplasia. So as it turns out this disease involves many more factors than just a genetic component. Genetics certainly play a big role, but nutrition, body weight, environment, muscle mass, food quality, exercise/activity, and even hormones all may play a role as well. 

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There is no one size fits all test to determine a perfectly healthy dog for breeding. Its not possible to have perfection!  I complete the tests I can, make educated decisions with the information I am given, and I hope for the best. However, I am a HUGE advocate for keeping your golden at a healthy weight! 60% of goldens are overweight which contributes tremendously to hip and elbow dysplasia.