As a dedicated Golden Retriever breeder, my top priority is producing healthy, happy, and well-adjusted dogs. I love everything about this breed—their affectionate nature, intelligence, and eagerness to please—but I also know that Goldens are prone to certain inherited health conditions.
That’s why OFA testing is a cornerstone of my breeding program. It’s not just a checkbox—it’s a commitment to the long-term health and future of the breed.
What Is OFA Testing, and Why Do I Use It?
The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) is the gold standard when it comes to evaluating dogs for inherited health conditions. Their certification process helps breeders like me make informed breeding decisions by identifying problems before they can be passed down.
Every Golden I breed is tested for key health issues that are known to affect the breed. These results aren’t just for me—they’re shared publicly so buyers can verify the health of each dog.
The Essential OFA Tests for Golden Retrievers
Golden Retrievers have several known genetic risks. In my program, I test each breeding dog for the following:
- Hips and Elbows
These joints are commonly affected by dysplasia in Goldens. I submit X-rays to OFA once a dog reaches 24 months old, ensuring an accurate and official reading for hips and elbows. In addition, I utilize PennHIP evaluations to further ensure hip joint conformation. - Heart (SAS Screening)
Subvalvular aortic stenosis (SAS) is a serious heart condition in this breed. I work with a board-certified cardiologist for annual cardiac clearances on all of our breeding dogs. - Eyes (CAER Exam)
Annual exams by a veterinary ophthalmologist screen for inherited eye diseases like cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). - Genetic Screening
A comprehensive genetic screening is completed on every San Diego Goldens breeding dog to enable us to make the best possible pairing decisions to ensure no puppy is affected by preventable disorders such as degenerative myelopathy and Ichthyosis.
Age and Timing of Testing
For orthopedic certifications (hips and elbows), I wait until each dog is at least 24 months old—the age required for official OFA ratings. Preliminary evaluations may be done earlier, but I base breeding decisions only on final results.
Other tests, like cardiac and eyes, are repeated annually and reported to the OFA.
Why I Make All OFA Results Public
Transparency builds trust. All of my breeding dogs have their results listed in the public OFA database, which you can search at ofa.org. I encourage potential puppy buyers to check those records and to ask questions.
If you’re considering a puppy—whether from me or another breeder—always ask to see the parents’ OFA health clearances. A reputable breeder will be happy to share them.
Breeding for Health First
Every litter I plan starts with the health of the parents. If a dog doesn’t meet my standards based on OFA results or overall temperament, they’re not bred—period.
My goal is not just to produce beautiful Goldens, but dogs that can be active, pain-free, and beloved companions for years to come. OFA testing helps make that possible.
Final Thoughts for Fellow Breeders and Puppy Buyers
If you’re a breeder, I strongly encourage you to make OFA testing the foundation of your program. It improves your lines, strengthens the breed, and gives your buyers confidence.
And if you’re looking for a puppy, remember: health testing isn’t optional—it’s essential. Ask for documentation. Check the OFA database. And choose breeders who are as committed to the health of the breed as they are to producing adorable puppies.
Want to learn more? Visit www.ofa.org or feel free to contact me—I’m always happy to share more about how I use health testing in my breeding program.