Dog Health-Test Results: What Puppy Buyers Should Ask to See

The phrase “health tested” can refer to very different things. A routine veterinary examination of a puppy, a DNA test for one inherited variant and a scored screening scheme for a parent are not interchangeable. Ask exactly what was tested, which dog was tested and who issued the result.

Start with tests relevant to the breed

Health risks differ by breed and cross. Use a recognised breed-health resource to identify recommended screening for both parents, then ask the breeder for those specific results. A long list of unrelated tests should not distract from a missing high-priority screen.

Match each result to the parent

A useful record identifies the dog, test or scheme, result, date and issuing laboratory or organisation. Match the registered name, microchip or other identifier to the mother or father. Ask why any identifier or result differs from the breeder's description.

Understand what the result does not guarantee

Screening can reduce avoidable risk, but it cannot guarantee that a puppy will never develop a condition. Ask the breeder how results influenced the mating decision and whether any result requires interpretation rather than a simple clear or affected label.

Verify rather than screenshot

Where the issuing scheme offers a public lookup, check it directly. Otherwise ask for the original certificate and confirm questions with the issuing organisation or your own vet. Do not treat a marketplace badge or a seller-written summary as the underlying evidence.

Keep the evidence with the puppy records

Save copies of the parents' results, the puppy's veterinary record and the contract. If a promised document is missing, do not assume it will arrive after payment. Make its delivery and meaning clear before you commit.

Read DNA, clinical and scored results differently

A DNA result addresses the variant named on the certificate; it does not rule out every inherited disease. A clinical examination reports findings at the time of examination. Hip or elbow scores and respiratory grades need scheme-specific interpretation, not a generic pass/fail label. Ask what each result means for the proposed mating and what remains untested.

Crossbred puppies need both sides considered

For a Maltipoo, Cavapoo or Bernedoodle, identify the actual parents and the Poodle variety before asking about appropriate screening. A crossbreed name does not guarantee hybrid health. For French Bulldogs, discuss breathing and relevant clinical screening, including the Respiratory Function Grading Scheme, with your vet. The puppy's routine vet check remains a separate record.

A five-point evidence check

Record the parent's identifier, named test or scheme, date, result and issuer. Compare the certificate with the breeder's claim, verify public results where available and note questions for your own vet. If a promised result is absent, clarify that before payment. A contract, vaccination card and parent test each answer different questions.