Our Approach
Health Comes First
When we plan a pairing, we look at health first, then temperament and personality, then colors and markings. Each parent's test results are posted on their profile page, so you can see them for yourself.
OFA Health Testing
Our adults are evaluated through the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals right after they turn two.
DNA Panels
We screen every parent for inherited diseases and colors, and use the results to match each mom with the most compatible sire.
Ongoing Vet Care
Every adult gets an annual physical, and every parent is checked by our vet before and between every litter.
Orthopedic Foundation for Animals
OFA Testing
Right after our adults turn two, they're evaluated through the OFA. The tests depend on the breed, since each breed has its own health concerns.
Hips
X-rays of the hips are sent to the OFA and reviewed by veterinary radiologists for signs of hip dysplasia.
Elbows
X-rays of the elbows are reviewed the same way, checking for elbow dysplasia.
Eyes
A veterinary ophthalmologist examines the eyes for inherited eye disease (the CAER exam).
Heart
A cardiac exam checks for murmurs and other signs of congenital heart disease.
Patellas
The kneecaps are checked to make sure they stay in place, screening for luxating patellas.
Check It Yourself
OFA results are public. Every parent's profile page has a Verify on OFA.org button, so you can look up their results directly.
What We Test, by Breed
| Parent Breed | Hips | Elbows | Eyes | Heart | Patellas |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bernese Mountain Dog | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | – |
| Bernedoodle | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Poodle | ✓ | – | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Maltese | – | – | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Poodles generally aren't screened for elbows, and Maltese don't need hip or elbow screening.
Genetic Screening
DNA Testing
Every parent has a DNA panel that screens for inherited diseases and shows the colors and traits they carry. Most of our testing is done through Animal Genetics, and some through Embark.
We use those results to match each mom with the most compatible sire, which helps us plan healthier, more predictable litters.
Our purebred adults are AKC registered. You can see each parent's DNA results on their profile page.
Disease Screening
Panels check for the inherited conditions known in each breed, so we know which dogs are clear and which are carriers before any pairing.
Color & Coat Genetics
The same panels show the colors, patterns, and coat traits each parent carries, which is how we know what a litter can produce.
Ask Us Anything
Genetics questions are some of our favorites. Call or text (330) 275-3611 and we'll go over any parent's results with you.
Ongoing Care
Vet Care for Parents and Puppies
Testing isn't a one-time thing. Our vet stays involved with our dogs year-round.
Annual Physicals
Every adult dog in our program gets a full physical exam once a year.
Before and Between Litters
Every parent is checked by our vet before each litter and again between litters.
Puppy Vet Checks
Every puppy gets a full vet exam at 6 to 7 weeks and goes home with a vet health certificate, vaccine and deworming records, and a microchip.
Our Promise
2-Year Health Guarantee
Every puppy comes with a 2-year health guarantee covering debilitating congenital defects and the breed-specific genetic diseases listed below. To keep it active, have your puppy seen by your vet within 72 hours of arrival.
Bernedoodles
Poodles
Maltipoos
The written Health & Genetic Guarantee has the full terms, including what isn't covered.
Questions About a Parent's Results?
Call or text (330) 275-3611 and we'll walk you through their testing.