What health tests we do for our Italian Greyhounds

At our kennel, we strive to raise healthy Italian Greyhound puppies. That’s why we have implemented a comprehensive health screening program that includes both genetic testing and clinical examinations.

Genetic Tests

Our dogs undergo four mandatory genetic tests specifically developed for this breed:

• FEH (Familial Enamel Hypoplasia)

An inherited defect in enamel formation that can lead to excessive tooth wear, sensitivity, and a higher risk of cavities.

• PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy)

A hereditary eye disease that gradually impairs vision and may result in blindness.

• PCAG (Primary Closed-Angle Glaucoma)

An increase in intraocular pressure in the front chamber of the eye, causing pain and irreversible damage to the optic nerve.

• PLL (Primary Lens Luxation)

A genetically determined displacement of the lens inside the eye, which can cause pain, inflammation, and sudden vision loss.

Genetic testing allows us to detect problems before they appear. Carriers are usually clinically healthy, so without DNA testing, it is impossible to know what they may pass on. In the past, when these tests did not exist, issues only became visible in the puppies, even though breeders believed they were mating healthy dogs.

Thanks to modern genetic testing, we know exactly which dogs carry potentially harmful genes and can plan pairings accordingly.

Clinical Examinations

Genetics are only part of the picture. Clinical examinations are just as important:

• Patella Luxation Check

We assess the stability of the kneecap to prevent subluxation and arthritis.

• Eye Examination

A thorough ophthalmologic exam helps detect not only vision defects but also early signs of glaucoma or cataracts.

• Heart Examination

We listen for murmurs and arrhythmias that may indicate congenital or acquired heart conditions.

Together, genetic testing and clinical screening provide a complete picture of our breeding dogs’ health.

Balanced Bloodlines and Preventive Care

Unfortunately, most diseases do not yet have reliable genetic tests or screening methods, as they depend on multiple genes and environmental factors. We carefully monitor pedigrees and avoid breeding from lines with noticeable health issues such as allergies, epilepsy, digestive disorders, autoimmune diseases, or brittle bones. If we notice serious problems, we exclude such dogs from our breeding program, no matter how beautiful or titled they are.

Of course, it is impossible to guarantee perfect health - sometimes even two completely healthy parents can produce a puppy with congenital or acquired issues. Nature occasionally surprises us.

It’s also important to remember that a dog’s health is not determined by genetics alone. External factors play a major role:

• Proper upbringing: appropriate environment and physical activity.

• Balanced nutrition: high-quality food and supplements when needed.

• Mental well-being: play, training, and socialization.

We do everything possible to ensure our Italian Greyhounds remain healthy. While absolute guarantees don’t exist, we believe that our system of genetic and clinical monitoring, combined with strict selection, contributes to improving the health of the breed.

Always in Touch

We stay in touch even after puppies go to their new homes. We regularly check in on their health, answer questions, and provide advice. This ongoing support helps us make sure that every Italian Greyhound from our kennel enjoys the best possible life.