Border Collie Health
Border Collies are generally considered to be a relatively healthy dog breed. However, like all animals, they are susceptible to conditions that can affect their health and welfare. Many of these disorders are inherited – passed on to a dog from its parents. Fortunately, within the last 30 years, researchers have developed tests for a large number of diseases that Border Collies can inherit. DNA testing can identify which dogs are affected by (display themselves) or carry (not affected, but can pass on the genetic mutation to puppies) these diseases. X-Rays can also detect some structural disorders. An ethical breeder uses both DNA testing and X-Rays to determine which dogs should or should not be bred together, to have the greatest chance of producing healthy puppies.
The above document will list the most current DNA and X-Ray tests available for Border Collies (as of December 2021). Some tests have been available for many years, whilst some have emerged only recently. For breeders, links for laboratories providing tests will also be provided at the end of the document.
It should be noted, however, that some conditions are not yet testable, as the genetic mutations that are responsible for causing these is not yet known. As a result, these conditions cannot be fully prevented by DNA testing. Ethical breeders who have a deep understanding of the ancestry, or lines, of their breeding dogs can try to prevent these disorders by avoiding using affected dogs or lines with related symptoms. These conditions will also be listed.
It should be noted, however, that some conditions are not yet testable, as the genetic mutations that are responsible for causing these is not yet known. As a result, these conditions cannot be fully prevented by DNA testing. Ethical breeders who have a deep understanding of the ancestry, or lines, of their breeding dogs can try to prevent these disorders by avoiding using affected dogs or lines with related symptoms. These conditions will also be listed.