IW Foundation Health Library:
Health Testing
Health testing is often thought of as being just the concern of breeders, but in reality all adult IWs should have their hearts tested annually, and all IW puppies should be screened for liver shunt before going to their new homes. Heart testing is important because heart disease can often be managed if caught early. Breeding dogs, of course, should have a full complement of health screenings (heart, hips, elbows and eyes) so affected dogs can be eliminated from the breeding program. And puppies should be screened for liver shunt so that new puppy parents don't have the heartache of dealing with this very serious defect.
The IWF sponsors heart screening clinics throughout the US and Canada at which costs are subsidized, and all IW owners are encouraged to participate. Clinics are heald at specialty shows, but also at more social gatherings of regional clubs.
Further Reading
- Canine Health Test Schedule (US and Canada)
- OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals)
- OFA Health Clinic Calendar
- PennHip (hip dysplasia)
- PSS (liver shunt)
Links provided here provide Irish Wolfhound-specific, sighthound, and/or general canine information relevant to Irish Wolfhounds.
Disclaimer: The Irish Wolfhound Foundation provides the information on this website for the education of its readers. No information on this website should be used for veterinary medical purposes, diagnostically, therapeutically, or otherwise. Consult a veterinarian before attempting to medically treat your dog or changing your dog's medical treatment.
Note: Links to content outside iwfoundation.org may become inactive over time.