Here at Legends Mini Aussies we strive to produce quality Mini Aussies.
The Miniature Australian Shepherd is in general, an overall healthy breed. But like any breed, they are prone to certain genetic health issues. There are genetic tests that can be done to prevent affected dogs from being bred and/or making sure they are bred to the right mate so they do not pass along any health issues to their offspring. When you talk about DNA and breeding, it can be very complex. That is why testing is important. I am always trying to educate myself, to make myself a better breeder.
The best advice I can ever offer a prospective buyer, whether they purchase a puppy from me or not, is to educate yourself and do your homework. Learn about the breed. Don’t just purchase a puppy because it’s cute, or its the first available (this would actually deter me, as most reputable breeders have waiting/deposit lists months prior to litters being born). Also, look at the parents, because chances are, this is what your puppy will look like at maturity. If you are smart and do your homework, you will be rewarded with a sound, healthy, quality puppy. There is an old adage, “you get what you pay for”, and this certainly holds true when it comes to buying a puppy (of any breed).
Here at Legends Mini Aussies, we screen our breeding stock for hips/elbows/patella with OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) as well as genetic testing on all our breeding stock. Genetic testing is as important as OFA testing and I do both. With that said, there is never a 100% guarantee on a life animals health. Just like humans, dogs can have health issues. But I can do my best to avoid that by doing breed testing.
Health Tests: SEE THE LINKS TO THE RIGHT COLUMN OF THE WEBSITE
By doing these tests, I am doing my best to prevent any hereditary health problems being passed onto any of our offspring. Screening my dogs takes time and money, but worth the investment. It’s part of being a responsible breeder. There is never a 100% guarantee on a live animal that something can’t happen down the road, but there is definitely a higher risk if no testing is done at all or if carriers of certain genetic traits are bred.
