Health Testing in Finnish Lapphunds in Australia

Responsible breeding begins with rigorous health testing to ensure the well-being of future generations. In Australia, Finnish Lapphund breeders follow a comprehensive health screening protocol designed to minimise the risk of inherited conditions and promote long-term breed vitality. Health testing plays a pivotal role in responsible breeding practices. With certain hereditary conditions prevalent in Finnish Lapphunds, the need for detailed testing cannot be overstated. Testing not only helps in identifying potential health issues but also protects the breed's integrity and longevity. Below is an in-depth look at the essential and optional health tests conducted on Finnish Lapphunds, including the schemes used, the rationale behind each test, and how the results guide ethical breeding decisions.

Hip and Elbow Dysplasia Screening

In Finnish Lapphunds, CHEDS style hip scoring is the most widely used, with PennHIP sometimes used in conjunction.

General Hip Evaluation – CHEDS / OFA / BVA / FCI / SV

What it is: Hip and elbow dysplasia are inherited conditions where the joints develop abnormally, leading to arthritis and mobility issues. The Canine Hip and Elbow Dysplasia Scheme (CHEDS), administered by the Australian Veterinary Association, is the gold standard in Australia for evaluating joint conformation.

Procedure: Dogs are x-rayed under sedation, and the radiographs are submitted to an AVA-accredited radiologist for scoring.

Scoring system:

• Hips: Each hip is scored from 0 (no abnormalities) to 53 (severe dysplasia), for a total possible score of 0–106. The lower the score, the better. Scores are broken down into sub-components (Norberg angle, subluxation, etc.) for detailed evaluation.

• Elbows: Each elbow is graded from 0 to 3, with 0 indicating no signs of dysplasia. Only dogs with a grade of 0 are generally recommended for breeding.

Breeding recommendation: Ideally, breeding pairs have hip scores well below the breed average (published by ANKC/AVA) and elbow scores of 0/0. Breeders often consider the scores of relatives as well to evaluate heritability risk.

• For the OFA/BVA/FCI/SV/CHEDS international matrix, visit here

Alternative/Optional Hip Evaluation – PennHIP Method

What it is: PennHIP (Pennsylvania Hip Improvement Program) is an alternative method for assessing hip laxity, which is a primary risk factor for the development of canine hip dysplasia. Unlike CHEDS, which relies on a traditional scoring system, PennHIP provides a precise, scientific measurement of hip joint laxity known as the Distraction Index (DI).

Procedure:

• Dogs are sedated or anaesthetized and undergo three specific x-rays:

  1. Distraction view (measures passive joint laxity),

  2. Compression view (assesses joint congruity),

  3. Standard hip-extended view (like CHEDS).

• Only veterinarians certified in PennHIP technique are allowed to perform the imaging.

• Radiographs are submitted to the PennHIP analysis center (University of Pennsylvania or authorized labs).

Scoring system – Distraction Index (DI):

• DI ranges from 0 to 1, where:

  • 0.0 = no laxity (ideal),

  • 1.0 = severe laxity (high risk of dysplasia).

• Most breeds have average DI values, and PennHIP results compare your dog to breed-specific benchmarks.

• Finnish Lapphunds: While published DI averages are limited due to lower global numbers, any DI under 0.3–0.4 is generally desirable for breeding.

Why choose PennHIP?

• PennHIP can be performed as early as 16 weeks of age, much earlier than CHEDS.

• It is more predictive of future arthritis than standard hip scoring.

• Unlike CHEDS, which focuses on existing bony changes, PennHIP predicts risk based on joint laxity before changes develop.

Breeding recommendation:

• Breeders using PennHIP should aim to select dogs with DI values in the tightest 40% (ideally <0.4) for breeding.

• Dogs with high DI scores should be excluded unless paired very cautiously and considered in the context of their overall health and genetic contribution.

  
  

ACES Eye Testing with Veterinarian Ophthalmologists

What it is: Eye exams detect hereditary ocular conditions that could affect vision or quality of life. Common concerns in Finnish Lapphunds include Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), cataracts, and distichiasis.

Procedure: An ACES-certified veterinary ophthalmologist conducts a comprehensive eye exam, typically with dilation, to inspect the eye structures.

ACES Certificate:

• The ACES certificate reports the presence or absence of observable hereditary or developmental conditions.

• Dogs are tested annually and particularly prior to breeding.

Breeding recommendation: Only dogs with a current ACES clear certificate (no inherited abnormalities) are used in breeding. Carriers or affected individuals may be retired or used selectively with known clear partners, depending on the condition.

Puppies may also be screened via litter screening.

Key DNA Testing for Disease Markers

Many conditions in Finnish Lapphunds are inherited in an autosomal recessive manner, meaning a dog must inherit two copies of the defective gene (one from each parent) to be affected. Dogs with only one copy are carriers and do not show symptoms but can pass the gene to offspring.

Core DNA Tests Include:

• prcd-PRA: Progressive Retinal Atrophy – causes gradual blindness.

• IFT122 PRA (also known as PRA-crd4): Another PRA variant.

• Degenerative Myelopathy (DM - SOD1): A progressive neurological disorder causing hind-end paralysis.

• Pompe Disease (GSD-II): A metabolic disorder affecting muscle and heart function.

• Canine Multifocal Retinopathy (CMR3): Causes retinal lesions; usually benign but visually apparent.

• Hyperuricosuria (HUU): Causes high levels of uric acid, increasing risk of bladder stones.

Testing laboratories: Tests are conducted via buccal swab or blood sample and processed by certified labs (e.g., Orivet, EmbarkVet, Paw Print Genetics, Labolkin, My Dog DNA).

Breeding recommendation: Breeders follow a “clear-to-clear” or “clear-to-carrier” policy, never mating two carriers to avoid affected puppies. Results should be accessible to buyers.

Extra Testing Options for Comprehensive Health Checks

• In addition to the primary health tests, there are several extra assessments that can provide valuable insights into a Finnish Lapphund’s overall health status. These include:

  
  

  a. Gonioscopy:

  • Purpose: Examines the drainage angle of the eye for abnormalities (goniodysgenesis) which can lead to glaucoma.

  • Recommended for breeding dogs as some Finnish Lapphunds carry predispositions.

    
    

  b. Echocardiogram:

  • Purpose: Assesses heart structure and function, looking for murmurs, valve issues, or congenital defects.

  • Procedure: Performed by a veterinary cardiologist with an ultrasound probe while the dog is lying on its right side.

  • Breeding recommendation: Dogs with signs of congenital heart issues are excluded from breeding.

    
    

  c. Patella Luxation Screening:

  • Purpose: Checks if the kneecap is stable or prone to dislocation.

  • Grades: 0 (normal) to 4 (severe).

  • Recommendation: Only grade 0 (and sometimes grade 1) dogs are bred.

    
    

  d. Spine Screening (LTV & Transitional Vertebrae):

  • Purpose: Identifies lumbosacral transitional vertebrae (LTV) or other anomalies that may affect movement or cause pain.

  • Method: Radiographs are evaluated by a specialist.

    
    

  e. Pedigree Analysis & Veterinary Clearance:

  • A complete health picture includes evaluating the health history of ancestors and siblings.

  • Veterinary clearance for breeding includes reviewing all test results and performing a physical exam to ensure the dog is structurally and behaviorally sound.

Preserving the Finnish Lapphund Legacy

Ethical breeders in Australia don’t just look at scores—they look at the big picture. This includes:

• Generational health history.

• Temperament.

• Conformation to breed standard.

• Lifestyle and working ability.

Breeding is not about perfection, but about progress. Each generation should be healthier and better adjusted than the last.

A fabulous list of breeding criteria is available from lappalaiskoirat ry. We base our own program on a mix between this criteria as well as the FLCV breeding guidelines.

Responsible breeding and thorough health testing hold the key to ensuring the longevity and health of Finnish Lapphunds in Australia, especially given the smaller breeding pool available here. By adhering to stringent health screening protocols and acknowledging the hereditary nature of certain diseases, breeders can significantly contribute to a healthier breed population.

As a dog owner, your role is equally vital. Prioritise health testing when obtaining a Finnish Lapphund, and ensure that your dog comes from a reputable breeder committed to maintaining the breed's welfare. Understanding the health backgrounds of both parents is crucial when selecting the right dog for your family.

Additionally, be proactive about your dog's health after adopting. Routine vet check-ups, balanced nutrition, and proper exercise contribute to a long and healthy life for your Finnish Lapphund.

Finnish Lapphunds are a hardy and ancient breed, but no breed is free of health challenges. Through the use of CHEDS, ACES, DNA testing, and a range of advanced diagnostics, breeders in Australia are working diligently to ensure that each puppy has the best start in life. When you purchase a puppy from a health-conscious breeder, you’re not just buying a dog. You’re supporting a legacy of responsibility and care.

For more information and support regarding canine health testing and breed welfare, feel free to reach out.