Health testing is a cornerstone of our breeding program. Our goal is to produce happy, healthy puppies for wonderful families to enjoy. We take seriously every little life we help bring into this world and are committed to each puppy for their lifetime.
We would be glad to answer any questions you may have about Havana Silk Dogs, Havanese or about health testing. Please contact me at (231)384-1111 or
Health Info
Why is Health Testing important?
The Havanese breed is not free from health problems, actually Havanese health issues are a major concern. That is, in part, the reason why the Havana Silk Dog Association of America (HSDAA) was formed. Some of the health problems that affect the Havanese include: deafness, cataracts (which lead to blindness), hip dysplasia, patella luxation (slipping knee cap), liver shunts, heart disease and chondrodysplasia (also known as CD).
Deafness- can be in one or both ears, all dogs should have a BAER test to determine hearing. Dogs that are deaf in only one ear can function normally and may not be diagnosed without the BAER test.
Cataracts- can cause blindness. This is especially a problem if developed in a young dog. Yearly CERF exams should be performed by a licenced Veterinary Opthomologist on all breeding dogs. Many breeders choose to give their dogs an egg yolk a day since cataracts have been linked to a lack of cholesterol. Think of it as an added nutrient, like vitamins, to help your dog's health.
Hip Dysplasia- improper structure and/or placement of the hip joint. Can be mild or severe. All breeders should have OFA hip screenings done.
Patella Luxation- slipping of the knee cap. Can be caused by injury or genetic, mild or severe. All breeders should have an OFA patella exam.
Liver shunts- the lack of proper blood flow through the liver. Can be mild or severe. Some cases are operable. Some never need any attention other than proper diet. Blood panels should be run on breeding dogs.
Heart Disease- typically described as heart murmurs at a young age. Can lead to heart failure over time.
Chondrodyplasia (CD)- a skeletal abnormality resulting in the premature closure of the growth plates. Legs can be bowed symmetrically or asymmetrically or can be too short for the proper balance of the dog. This is common in dwarf breeds, however the Havanese/Havana Silk Dog is not a dwarf breed. The legs should be straight and lean, with a balanced appearance of being slightly longer than tall. Dr. Murphy did research which found that CD has been linked to other health problems. Another general concern is that a dog with CD may develop arthritis resulting in painful movement. All breeding dogs should have soaped photos available. Reputable breeders 'soap' their puppies at 8 weeks to see their conformation. Ask for soaped photos of your puppy.
More about all of these health risks can be found at the Havana Silk Dog Association of America. Dr. Keith Murphy of Texas A&M did research on the health of the Havanese and published his finding in a paper in 2007. The details of this research are also on the HSDAA website.
As you can see, there are a number of health concerns in the Havanese breed, though statistically far less than many breeds. This is why judicious breeders make certain to health test all of their breeding stock. Knowing that the parents of a puppy are free from health concerns greatly decreases the risk of puppies developing problems.
In order for a dog to be certified through the HSDAA they must have passed certain health exams, including BEAR (hearing), CERF (eyes), OFA hips, and OFA patella's. They also must have a DNA profile on record, soaped photos on record verifying that they are free of CD, and pass a hands on evaluation which physically considers structure, soundness, and breed standard. Many breeders also run blood panels and cardiac exams on their dogs. All of this is designed to help the breed maintain good health and soundness. If you don't know what you are breeding, how can you possibly know what you may get?
While health testing is expensive, and the removal of a dog from your breeding program because it does not pass an exam is a great loss, truly reputable breeders will pay the price in order to protect the breed and assure only the highest quality puppies from their breeding program. They will also take the time and expense to register their dogs results on the OFA database. You can go here and type in the dogs name to find their testing results.
What are soaps?
Soaps or soaped photos are pictures taken of the dog while they are wet and soapy so you can see what the structure of the dog is under all that beautiful hair. It allows the breeder to evaluate the structure, proportions, and angles of the dog. If there are any structural deviations, such as bowed legs, these can be seen in soaped photos. All Certified Havana Silk Dogs must have soaped photos evaluated and kept on file. Breeders should also soap their puppies at 8 weeks to evaluate them. It is important to know what you are producing.
Please shop carefully!
While looking at an adorable little puppy it is almost impossible to think with a clear mind. They are all just so sweet. They are cute and cuddly and that sweet puppy breath! Do your homework first. Study and learn about the breed and interview various breeders. Make certain all health tests are done. While all the details can be overwhelming, the more knowledgeable you are the better prepared you will be to bring home your perfect little pup. A little time investigating now could prevent a lot of suffering and expense later. Make sure you are comfortable with the breeder and they are knowledgeable about the breed standard and health concerns.
WARNING: If a breeder says health testing is not important, does not register their test results with OFA, says there are not problems in their lines, says it is too expensive and unnecessary, or gives any other excuse for not health testing....RUN AWAY and find another breeder. There is simply no excuse for not health testing, it is for the betterment of the breed and is for the protection of your future puppy. Accept nothing less!
Our dogs are registered with the HSDAA as Certified Havana Silk Dogs. To us, it is about health, soundness, temperament, and meeting the standard for what the dog should look like. We think they are the greatest dogs ever.
This page was last updated: February 28, 2010
