Hip Dysplasia
A hereditary malformation where the hip joint seats poorly in the socket, leading over time to pain and arthritic change.
Elbow Dysplasia
A developmental abnormality of the elbow joint causing instability, lameness and discomfort on the foreleg.
Intervertebral Disc Disease
The breed-defining risk. Discs between the vertebrae bulge or rupture, pressing on the spinal cord. Covered where a hereditary basis is established.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
A degenerative retinal disease that gradually reduces vision. We screen breeding stock specifically for it.
Von Willebrand's Disease
An inherited clotting disorder that can cause dangerous bleeding during injury or surgery. Genetically tested before pairing.
Patellar Luxation
A kneecap that slips out of its groove — common across small breeds and readily identified on examination.
Health Screening Before Pairing
Every prospective pair is evaluated for hips, elbows, eyes and cardiac health before a mating is even considered. Results decide the pairing, not the other way round.
Genetic Testing
We test for the hereditary conditions this breed is known to carry, including von Willebrand's and progressive retinal atrophy, so affected puppies are not produced.
Deliberate Pair Selection
Beyond test results we weigh temperament, structure and genetic diversity. Two healthy dogs are not automatically a good pairing.
A Clean, Low-stress Environment
Our breeding dogs live in the house on quality nutrition with routine veterinary care. Maternal stress shows up in puppies, so we remove it.
Early Socialisation
From three weeks puppies meet handling, household noise, varied surfaces and new people — the groundwork for a confident adult dog.
Records Across Generations
We keep detailed lineage and health records so a pattern in one generation informs decisions in the next.
