Ensuring Optimal Health in Samoyeds: A Deep Dive into the Comprehensive Genetic Testing and Health Monitoring at Eskimoyed Samoyeds

At Eskimoyed Samoyeds, our mission and commitment extends beyond breeding beautiful, well-tempered puppies; it’s about ensuring their long-term health and happiness. Central to this goal is our commitment to comprehensive health testing. A critical aspect of this commitment involves rigorous genetic testing to identify and address potential health issues specific to the Samoyed breed. This blog explores the importance of health testing, the specific genetic conditions we screen for, and how these practices are integrated into our breeding program to support the well-being to enhance the health and longevity of our puppies. Additionally, we delve into the concepts of line breeding and outcrossing and their role in maintaining genetic diversity, and highlight the value of our puppy packs and pedigree papers and the Orchid database by ANKC.

The Importance of Health Testing

Health testing is foundational to responsible breeding. By identifying genetic predispositions to certain health conditions, we can make informed decisions that helps us to produce healthier Samoyeds. This proactive approach not only benefits the puppies we breed but also contributes to the overall well-being and health of the breed.

Key Genetic Tests and Conditions for Samoyeds

1. RD/OSD (Retinal Dysplasia/Optic Nerve Sheath Dysplasia)
   • RD/OSD are genetic conditions affecting the eyes, potentially leading to vision problems or blindness. Retinal Dysplasia involves abnormal retinal development, while Optic Nerve Sheath Dysplasia affects the optic nerve. We conduct ACES eye exams on our breeding dogs to detect these conditions early and prevent their transmission to puppies.
2. X-LPRA (X-linked Progressive Retinal Atrophy)
   • X-LPRA is a genetic disorder causing progressive vision loss, primarily affecting males due to its X-linked inheritance pattern. Genetic testing helps identify carriers and affected individuals, ensuring that we do not propagate this condition through our breeding program.
3. Hereditary Nephritis
   • Hereditary Nephritis is a genetic kidney disorder that can lead to kidney failure if not detected early. We test for this condition to ensure our breeding dogs do not carry the genes responsible, thereby protecting the health of our puppies
4. Familial Enamel Hypoplasia (FEH)
   • FEH is an autosomal recessive genetic disorder of the teeth characterized by enamel pitting and tooth discoloration. FEH in Samoyeds is usually noticed when the permanent teeth erupt, around 5-6 months of age. The deciduous teeth appear normal. The disorder is characterized by marked thinning or absence of the outer enamel layer with irregular pitting, which predisposes the dog to patchy tooth discoloration, dentin sensitivity, premature tooth wear, dental caries, pulp exposure, tartar accumulation, gingivitis, and periodontitis. Periodontal disease can lead to bone loss, gum recession, and tooth loss. Halitosis (foul-smelling breath) is a common effect of the dental disease.
5. Hip Dysplasia
   • Hip Dysplasia results from abnormal development of the hip joint, leading to arthritis and pain. We utilize OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) evaluations to assess the hip joints of our breeding dogs, ensuring that they meet high standards of orthopedic health and minimizing the risk for their puppies.
6. Elbow Dysplasia
   • Elbow Dysplasia involves malformation of the elbow joint, causing lameness and arthritis. We perform OFA evaluations for elbow dysplasia to confirm that our breeding dogs have healthy elbows and to prevent this condition in our puppies.
7. Glaucoma
   • Glaucoma is characterized by increased intraocular pressure and can lead to blindness. Early detection through ACES eye testing is crucial for managing this condition. We ensure all our puppies receive eye exams to detect any signs of glaucoma and other eye health issues.
8. Diabetes
   • Diabetes Mellitus is a metabolic disorder affecting blood sugar regulation. Although less common, diabetes can occur in Samoyeds. We monitor our breeding dogs for diabetes and provide guidance on management if needed.
9. Liver Shunts
   • Liver Shunts are abnormal blood vessels bypassing the liver, leading to liver dysfunction. We conduct acid bile tests on our puppies to screen for liver shunts, ensuring early detection and intervention if necessary.
10. Cardiac Disease
    • Cardiac Disease in Samoyeds includes various heart conditions that can affect the breed’s overall health. This may involve issues such as dilated cardiomyopathy or mitral valve disease. To address potential cardiac concerns, we conduct regular veterinary cardiac evaluations on our breeding dogs. These evaluations help ensure that our breeding Samoyeds have healthy hearts and reduce the risk of cardiac conditions being passed on to their offspring.

Integrating Health Testing into Our Breeding Program

At Eskimoyed Samoyeds, we incorporate results from these comprehensive health tests into our breeding program to uphold our commitment to producing healthy, well-adjusted puppies. Here’s how we do it:

• Pre-Breeding Health Checks: All our breeding dogs undergo thorough genetic testing and health evaluations to identify any potential conditions. This proactive approach allows us to make informed decisions about which dogs to pair.
• Informed Breeding Decisions: By understanding the genetic profiles of our breeding dogs, we select pairs that minimize the risk of hereditary conditions. This careful planning helps ensure the health and longevity of our puppies.
• Ongoing Monitoring: We provide lifetime support to our puppy owners, including guidance on monitoring and managing any health conditions that may arise. This commitment includes follow-up testing and support as needed.

Key Health Testing Organizations and What They Offer

1. SCARF (Sammie Canine Health Association Research Foundation)
   • SCARF focuses on research and health testing for Samoyeds, particularly for genetic conditions prevalent in the breed. By participating in SCARF’s testing programs, we can access breed-specific data that helps us understand and mitigate risks associated with genetic disorders.
2. OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals)
   • The OFA provides evaluations for various hereditary conditions, including hip and elbow dysplasia, as well as eye diseases. We ensure that all our breeding dogs undergo OFA testing to confirm that they meet the highest standards of orthopedic and ophthalmic health. This testing is vital for maintaining the physical health and mobility of our Samoyeds.
3. Paw Print Genetics
   • Paw Print Genetics offers a wide range of genetic tests, including those for hereditary diseases specific to Samoyeds. Their comprehensive testing helps us identify carriers of genetic conditions so that we can make informed breeding decisions that minimize the risk of passing on these conditions to the puppies.
4. VetGen
   • VetGen specializes in genetic testing for various canine diseases, providing valuable insights into the health status of our breeding dogs. Their tests help us assess the risk of genetic disorders and ensure that our puppies inherit the best possible genetic traits.
5. MyDog DNA
   • MyDog DNA offers detailed genetic analysis, including breed-specific tests that can identify potential health risks. By using their services, we gain a clearer understanding of our dogs’ genetic profiles, which helps us make educated decisions about pairing dogs to produce healthy litters.
6. Orchid Database by ANKC (Australian National Kennel Council)
   • The Orchid Database is the Australian equivent of the OFA is a valuable tool for breeders, providing a comprehensive record of health clearances and pedigree information and provides statistical evaluations for various hereditary conditions, including hip and elbow dysplasia, as well as eye diseases for Australian born and bred pedigree dogs. It allows us to track the health history and genetic background of our Samoyeds and their relatives, ensuring transparency and facilitating informed breeding decisions. By accessing this database, we can verify health clearances and pedigree details, enhancing the overall integrity of our breeding program. We ensure that any Austrralian dogs used at stud conform and participate in the ORCHID scheme.

At Eskimoyed Samoyeds, we incorporate results from these leading health testing organizations into every aspect of our breeding program. Here’s how:

• Selection of Breeding Dogs: We carefully select our breeding pairs based on their health testing results. By choosing dogs with clear health profiles, we minimize the risk of passing on genetic disorders and enhance the overall health of our puppies.
• Genetic Counseling: We use the data from these tests to provide genetic counseling and ensure that we are making the best possible decisions for each breeding. This helps us avoid potential genetic issues and maintain the breed’s health standards.
• Lifetime Support: Our commitment to health doesn’t stop with the initial testing. We provide lifetime support to puppy owners, including guidance on monitoring their Samoyed’s health and making any necessary adjustments to their care and diet.

Line Breeding and Outcrossing: Enhancing Genetic Diversity

Maintaining genetic diversity is crucial for the health and vitality of any breed. At Eskimoyed Samoyeds, we use both line breeding and outcrossing to balance genetic diversity while preserving the breed’s desirable traits.

1. Line Breeding
   • Line Breeding involves mating dogs that are closely related but not directly inbred. This strategy aims to concentrate desirable traits within a lineage while avoiding the severe negative effects of inbreeding. By carefully selecting breeding pairs that share a common ancestor, we can reinforce positive characteristics such as temperament and conformation while reducing the risk of genetic disorders.
2. Outcrossing
   • Outcrossing involves introducing unrelated dogs into the breeding program. This practice increases genetic diversity by bringing in new genetic material, which helps reduce the risk of hereditary diseases and can improve overall health and vigor. At Eskimoyed Samoyeds, our passion and aim are to import the healthiest Samoyed bloodlines from throughout the world to increase genetic diversity within the breed. Outcrossing allows us to address specific health concerns and incorporate desirable traits from outside lines, leading to a more robust gene pool.

By combining these approaches, we ensure that our breeding program maintains genetic health and diversity while preserving the quality and characteristics that make Samoyeds such exceptional pets.

Puppy Packs and Pedigree Papers: Providing Confidence and Traceability

When you bring home a puppy from Eskimoyed Samoyeds, you receive a comprehensive puppy pack that includes copies of the health reports for both the sire (dad) and dam (mum). These reports provide detailed information about the health testing results for the puppy’s parents, giving you confidence in the health and genetic background of your new family member.

Additionally, our puppies come with pedigree papers that enable traceability of health throughout the generations. Pedigree papers document the lineage of your Samoyed, allowing you to trace the health history and genetic background of ancestors. This transparency adds significant value for families, as it provides reassurance about the hereditary health of your puppy and contributes to informed care decisions throughout their life.

Lifetime Guarantee and Warranties

At Eskimoyed Samoyeds, we offer a lifetime guarantee against testable genetic diseases and warranties over serious congenital defects and un-testable diseases. This guarantee is traceable to our breeding practices and is provided under contract terms and conditions, giving you peace of mind about your puppy’s long-term health.

Thorough Vet Checks: Ensuring Your Puppy’s Health Before Homing

To ensure that every puppy is in the best possible health before joining their new family, we conduct thorough veterinary examinations. Each puppy undergoes a comprehensive vet check to assess their overall health, confirm that they are free from any congenital issues, and ensure they are ready for their new home. This final check-up provides an additional layer of assurance for new owners and helps identify any potential health concerns early on.

Conclusion

Health testing and genetic diversity is a cornerstone of our breeding program at Eskimoyed Samoyeds.  By utilizing the services of SCARF, OFA, Paw Print Genetics, VetGen, MyDog DNA, and ORCHID screening for specific gene mutations and health conditions ike RD/OSD, X-LPRA, Hereditary Nephritis, Hip Dysplasia, Elbow Dysplasia, Glaucoma, Diabetes, Liver Shunts, and Cardiac Disease, we ensure that our Samoyed puppies start life with the best possible genetic foundation. Our strategic use of line breeding and outcrossing further enhances genetic diversity, contributing to the overall health and vitality of our puppies. Our dedication to comprehensive health testing further reflects our commitment to producing Samoyeds that are not only beautiful but also healthy and resilient, setting them up for a lifetime of happiness and well-being.

With comprehensive puppy packs and detailed pedigree papers, we provide transparency and confidence in the health and lineage of our puppies, adding value for families and ensuring that your new Samoyed is well-prepared for a happy and healthy life.

If you have any questions about our health testing procedures , breeding prctices, oryou’re your interested in learning more about our breeding program, dont hesitate  to reach out. At Eskimoyed Samoyeds, we are here to support you and your future Samoyed  every step of the way with the highest standards of care and commitment.