OFA vs. PennHip

[TylerS]

Well, I finally got Remy's hips checked. Came back dysplasia free, but only "Fair." Vet showed me the x-ray before sending it off to OFA, and pointed out some anomalies. It looks like he may have had an injury that healed in his right hip. I'm guessing that's why he was only given "Fair" instead of a better rating. Anyway, I'm a bit bummed, as I've been told he's now pretty much out of the running for stud.

There is another option, however: get him PennHip tested. That's apparently a more accurate test. I wish I was told this in the first place, as I would never have OFA'd him. Since breeding him isn't my No. 1 goal, I'm leary bout spending more darn money on health certification. With $375 Invitational entry fee on the way, bird $$, gas $$$, training supplies $$$$ ... I'm about tapped.

So anyone have a preference for OFA or PennHip? Anyone have any advice? I'm afraid I won't like it, but then again, I never bought Remy with the sole purpose of breeding. He's a family/hunting dog first.

[LABS4ME]

Why worry about doing it now? Do it down the road when you will consider offering him for stud. It would probably be a good investment to PennHip him.

I wouldn't say a fair would take him out of the stud race. If a vet can quantify that there is no dysplasia and the fair rating was because of a past injury, I'd say that would not be a deal breaker. I myself would be fine with it if the hips showed good structure and no arthritic change.

Go have have fun at the invitational, spend your money and time on that and worry about the breeding game at a later date.

Good Luck!

Ken

[Bdog]

I have only dealt with OFA, so I can't help you there. But I have had no problems with OFA and I think they are accurate and reliable.

I don't think the "fair" designation would necessarily prevent you from breeding him. In my opinion a dog with a "fair" x-ray from a long pedigree full of "goods" and "excellents" is a better breeding prospect than an "excellent" dog with a pedigree with a history of HD or that has untested individuals. Provided the dog has the great qualities you are looking to pass on. Just my $.02.