What does health tested parents mean?

Common tests include x-ray based hip and elbow scoring for larger breeds prone to joint issues, annual eye examinations by a veterinary ophthalmologist for breeds with known eye conditions, and DNA tests for specific inherited disorders that have a known genetic marker. Results are usually recorded on an official certificate with a date and the dog's identification.

Different breeds carry different known risks, so a responsible breeder tests for the conditions relevant to their specific breed rather than a generic checklist. Asking which tests were done, not just whether testing happened at all, tells you whether the breeder is following the recommendations for that breed or doing the bare minimum.

Testing reduces risk, it does not eliminate it entirely, since not every condition has a reliable test and some issues arise from factors beyond genetics alone. It remains one of the most meaningful things you can ask about, because it shows a breeder is actively trying to reduce preventable suffering rather than leaving it to chance.

A hip score, for example, is usually given as a number for each hip, with lower combined scores generally considered better for that breed, and breed clubs often publish a typical or recommended range to compare against. Do not hesitate to ask the breeder to explain what a specific number means for their breed rather than assuming any certificate on its own proves the parents are a safe match.