Bearded collie belongs to healthy and relatively long-legged breeds. Of course, each individual is unique and no one can guarantee health and longevity 100%. If there is a health problem, a simple medical intervention or short treatment can often solve it. However, the question of heredity is important to us. In particular, we are looking at hereditary diseases that could be passed on to the offspring of a given individual. Awareness and education of breeders and owners (and future owners) of bearded collies is important, not least the publication of information on the health status of not only breeding dogs. The KCHBC promotes the health check of breeding dogs, and testing for BAC has been compulsory for a number of years. Other radiological examinations such as elbow dysplasia or OCD of the shoulders, which also affect bearded collies, are recommended. In recent years, genetic DNA testing has been promoted to monitor the inheritance of certain other diseases and problems such as CEA, PRA and MDR1.
They are carried out by special radiology departments and evaluated by specialist veterinarians. The most frequent examination for breeding is the obligatory Hip Dysplasia (LTV-Transition Vertebrae is evaluated at the same time). It is recommended to perform the examination for Elbow Dysplasia, Shoulder OCD or Spondylosis during one anaesthesia.
Genetic tests are performed by specialized laboratories on the basis of a sample of genetic material - blood or buccal swab. Most often, genetic predispositions for the eye diseases Collie Eye Anomaly and Progressive Retinal Atrophy are evaluated. MDR1-multidrug resistance testing is also recommended.
Examination of the ocular background
Hereditary eye defects are examined only by designated evaluators. In bearded collies, the most common hereditary eye defect is cataract-cataract, followed by MPP-persistent pupillary membrane defect or corneal dystrophy. There are rare cases of eyelash growth defect - ectropion or entropion.
Autoimmune diseases are a big problem in bearded collies, the breed has a genetic predisposition to these diseases. These diseases can affect almost all organs and parts of the body. Addisson's disease and SLO are the most common in the breed.
