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Ask for hip and elbow evaluations (OFA or PennHIP), recent eye exams, and DNA tests for EIC and other breed-relevant conditions on both parents. A clear written health contract and the chance to meet the dam matter as much as the certificates. Answer page →
The core clearances (OFA CHIC for Labradors)
Test
Method
What a good result looks like
Hips
X-ray read by OFA (or PennHIP)
OFA Excellent, Good or Fair
Elbows
X-ray read by OFA
Normal
Eyes
Exam by a board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist
The key point: carriers are fine to breed if paired with a clear dog. Avoid any litter where both parents carry the same mutation.
How to verify
Ask for the parents’ registered names and OFA numbers.
Look them up on the OFA database.
For DNA results from other labs, ask to see the certificates. Paw Print Genetics, UC Davis, Embark and others issue them.
For pet owners
Already have your Lab? A consumer DNA kit (Embark or Wisdom Panel) screens for many of these conditions and reports coat-color genes. That’s useful for vet records and for spotting EIC or PRA risk early. Compare them in best DNA test for Labs.
Frequently asked questions
How do I verify a breeder's OFA results?
Search the parents' registered names on the OFA website (ofa.org). Results that are public are listed there.
Is a consumer DNA test enough for a breeding dog?
For breeding decisions, most breed clubs prefer OFA-recognized labs and official X-ray evaluations. Consumer kits are useful for pet owners.
How to Choose a Chocolate Lab Breeder Questions to ask a Labrador breeder, the health clearances to verify on OFA, and red flags like 'rare silver' marketing and no-parents-on-site.
Exercise-Induced Collapse (EIC) in Labradors EIC is a genetic condition (DNM1) that makes some Labs collapse after intense exercise. Signs, what to do in an episode, DNA testing and breeding advice.
