Health and Health Testing
The UK French Spaniel Club monitors the health of the breed as a matter of course and has an appointed breed coordinator. We are working with the Kennel Club, to develop the breed health plan. This plan ensures that any health concerns are identified through evidence-based criteria and provides breeders with information and resources for making balanced breeding decisions that make health a priority.
HEALTH TESTING
If you are considering breeding from your dog, the Uk French Spaniel Club is here to support you.
The Club holds a list of people who have shown an interest in a French Spaniel puppy.
The club requires members health test their breeding stock prior to mating to include hip scoring, and DNA testing for E Locus (undesirable yellow/red coat colour) and Acral Mutilation Syndrome ( AMS ), ensuring the results are within an acceptable range.
HIP SCORING
The BVA scheme uses X-rays to screen for signs of abnormalities (irregular or poorly shaped hip joints) caused by hip dysplasia. Once an X-ray has been taken by a vet (either your own, or there are special clinics across the country), it is uploaded to the BVA portal and checked by their team for quality control, and then sent to the BVA panel of expert veterinary surgeons.
They work in pairs to assess your dog’s hips and agree on a score. You will receive a digital certificate from your vet.
DNA TESTS
These are performed by taking a cheek swab from your dog and sending it to a laboratory for testing. Your dog may not require these tests if both its parents have been tested as genetically clear. E-Locus does not affect the health of the breed.
For more information about the HIP Score and DNA testing click the buttons below.