Our Standards
Health Testing, Explained
Why we test — and what it means for your puppy
Responsible breeding starts with health, and health starts with testing. Every one of our breeding dogs is DNA tested and clinically screened before we ever consider a mating. We do this so we can be confident we're producing healthy puppies — and so you can be too. Here's a plain-English guide to the tests you'll see on our dogs' pages and why each one matters.
DNA health tests
A simple DNA test tells us whether a dog is Clear, a Carrier, or Affected for a specific inherited condition. By pairing dogs sensibly, we make sure no puppy is ever at risk of being affected.
PRA-prcd (Progressive Retinal Atrophy)
An inherited eye condition that gradually affects the retina and can eventually lead to blindness. Testing clear means it can't be passed on.
FN (Familial Nephropathy)
A serious inherited kidney disease specific to Cocker Spaniels. Affected dogs develop kidney failure young, so for our breed this test is essential.
AMS (Acral Mutilation Syndrome)
A rare inherited nerve condition affecting sensation in the paws. Testing ensures puppies are completely unaffected.
DM (Degenerative Myelopathy)
A progressive condition affecting the spinal cord in later life. Clear parents mean peace of mind for the years ahead.
EIC (Exercise-Induced Collapse)
A condition that can cause collapse after intense exercise — particularly worth screening in active, working dogs.
GSD VII (Glycogen Storage Disease / PFK deficiency)
A metabolic condition affecting energy and stamina. Another we screen out completely.
Clinical and physical screening
Alongside DNA, our dogs are examined by specialist vets:
BVA/KC Hip Score
An expert X-ray assessment of the hip joints. The lower the score, the healthier the hips — we breed only from dogs with sound, well-scored hips.
BVA Elbow Score
Graded from 0 to 3, with 0 being perfect. We breed from sound, well-constructed dogs.
Eye Testing
A clinical eye examination that picks up conditions a DNA test can't, repeated regularly so results stay current.
Gonioscopy
A specialist eye test for glaucoma risk. A Grade 0 result means the eye's drainage is normal and healthy.
KC registration & DNA profiling
All of our dogs are Kennel Club registered, and DNA profiling confirms each dog's identity and parentage — so you know exactly what's behind your puppy.
Every puppy we sell comes from fully health-tested, KC-registered parents, and we're always happy to walk you through any of these results in person. If there's anything you'd like to understand better, just ask — we think informed owners make the best owners.