One of a breeder’s primary goals should be to breed healthy, balanced and sound puppies. One of the ways to achieve this is through health and genetic testing. An accountable breeder will ensure their dogs are tested by veterinary specialists to reduce and/or eliminate the possibility passing on inherited health issues to the next generation. Most breeds have a national club that has a list of health tests that are recommended for their breed and expect their breeder members to carry out such testing on their dogs. Ask to see the results of health tests for both the dam and the sire of your potential puppy’s litter, as well as for previous generations.