Both the Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle breeds can be prone to numerous health problems and genetic anomalies due to a myriad of reasons peculiar to each breed. However, this does not mean these problems will necessarily occur in every dog.

As a responsible breeder, I take advantage of using several health tests to screen my breeders and sires

for these genetic issues to ensure the chances for a long and healthy life for my B'doodles.

These certifications can be provided to a buyer prior to the final payment of their puppy being remitted.

Cardiac Evaluation (OFA) are useful in screening dogs for congenital heart conditions that can be passed down to the puppies. Congenital heart conditions are malformations of the heart, valves, or major blood vessels. The exact mode of transmission, or inheritance, is often unknown but it is recommended that breeding dogs are screened prior to breeding. The type and frequency of the screening examination performed varies by breed.

Cardiac Evaluation (OFA)

Degenerative Myelopathy

(DM; SOD1A /SOD1B)

Degenerative Myelopathy (DM; SOD1A) is a non-painful progressive neurological disease. Affected dogs will begin to show signs of weakness of the hind limbs that will progress to complete paralysis.

Degenerative Myelopathy (DM; SOD1B/SOD1B), Bernese Mountain Dog Type is a progressive neurological disease. Affected dogs will begin to show signs of weakness of the hind limbs that will progress to complete paralysis. This form of DM tends to progress more slowly.

Elbow Dysplasia is a complex condition involving both genetic and environmental factors and developments in a similar manner as hip dysplasia. It can cause varying degrees of pain and loss of function in the affected joint. The recommended screening test is x-rays.

Elbow Dysplasia

Hip Dysplasia

Hip Dysplasia is a complex condition involving both genetic and environmental factors that can cause varying degrees of pain and loss of function in the affected joint. Diet, body condition and traumatic injury can play a significant role in the development of hip dysplasia. However, there is also a large genetic component to the condition as well. No genetic test is available to date, therefore, the recommended screening test is x-rays.

Eye Certification (OFA CAER)

Eye Certification (OFA CAER) screens dogs for the presence of heritable eye disease. Most eye disease is thought to be genetic but the specifics of many diseases have not been identified to date. Screening of breeding dogs decreases the risk of heritable eye disease being transmitted to puppies. Breeding dogs should have annual eye examinations as onset of symptoms will vary by disease and individual.

Von Willebrand Disease I (vWD I)

von Willebrand Disease I (vWD I) is a disorder of the blood clotting system. Dogs with vWD have less of the von Willebrand clotting factor, necessary for normal blood clotting, than normal dogs. Symptoms will vary based on the degree of clotting factor missing. Dogs may have bleeding gums, bloody noses, bruising or bleeding during surgery.