Eliminating Hidden Risks: The 6 Genetic Screenings Every GSP Breeder Should Perform

Below is an overview of six genetic conditions that we at Prairie Fire Kennels screen for in all of our parent stock breeding dogs. By proactively testing for these issues, we help ensure that any puppies we produce have the best possible start in life—and that we are doing our part to protect and improve the German Shorthaired Pointer (GSP) breed.

1. Acral Mutilation Syndrome (AMS)

What It Is: Acral Mutilation Syndrome is a rare hereditary neurological disorder that affects a dog’s ability to feel pain in its limbs—particularly the feet. Dogs with AMS may excessively lick, chew, or bite their toes and paws, leading to severe injuries and infections. This self-mutilation can worsen over time without intervention.

Why Screening Matters

• Early Identification: Dogs who carry or are affected by AMS should not be bred, preventing the transmission of this painful condition.

• Preventing Suffering: By avoiding breeding affected or carrier dogs, we reduce the likelihood of producing puppies with severe, life-altering issues.

2. Coagulation Factor VII Deficiency

What It Is: Factor VII is one of the proteins critical for normal blood clotting. When a dog has Factor VII deficiency, it can experience excessive bleeding after surgery or trauma because its blood can’t clot efficiently.

Why Screening Matters

• Health & Safety: Undiagnosed clotting issues pose serious risks during routine procedures like spaying/neutering or injury treatment.

• Breeding Responsibility: Ensuring our breeding stock does not carry Factor VII mutations helps prevent breeding puppies susceptible to dangerous bleeding episodes.

3. Cone Degeneration (German Shorthaired Pointer Type)

What It Is: Cone Degeneration is an inherited eye disorder specifically seen in GSPs. It impairs the cone cells in the retina that are responsible for color vision and sharp visual acuity. Affected dogs may struggle with seeing in bright light (day blindness) and can have significantly reduced visual function.

Why Screening Matters

• Quality of Life: Visual impairments can limit a dog’s ability to navigate and fully enjoy activities, especially outdoor work like hunting.

• Breed Improvement: Identifying carriers or affected dogs helps us avoid perpetuating a vision-degrading condition.

4. Degenerative Myelopathy (DM)

What It Is: Degenerative Myelopathy is a progressive neurological disease affecting the spinal cord. Dogs typically present with hind limb weakness and loss of coordination, which worsens over time and can lead to paralysis.

Why Screening Matters

• Long-Term Health: DM greatly diminishes a dog’s mobility and quality of life.

• Proactive Breeding: Testing ensures we don’t unintentionally breed dogs that carry or express this debilitating condition.

5. Hyperuricosuria (HU)

What It Is: Hyperuricosuria causes increased levels of uric acid in the urine, predisposing dogs to urinary bladder stones (urate stones). These stones can be painful, may lead to urinary blockages, and often require medical or surgical intervention.

Why Screening Matters

• Prevent Painful Conditions: Bladder stones can severely impact a dog’s comfort and health.

• Better Health Management: Knowing a dog’s status allows for dietary and lifestyle adjustments if needed—and for making informed breeding decisions.

6. Von Willebrand Disease II (vWD II)

What It Is: Von Willebrand Disease (vWD) is another blood clotting disorder, different from Factor VII Deficiency but with a similar end result—affected dogs have trouble forming blood clots. Type II vWD is a specific variant that can cause moderate to severe bleeding episodes.

Why Screening Matters

• Surgical & Trauma Risks: A dog with undiagnosed vWD can be at high risk for complications from even minor injuries or routine surgeries.

• Breed Preservation: Knowing which dogs carry or express vWD II allows breeders to avoid producing litters with serious clotting issues.

Commitment to Healthy Breeding at Prairie Fire Kennels

At Prairie Fire Kennels, we believe in responsible, ethical breeding. That’s why we screen all our breeding dogs for these conditions, among others. By doing so:

1. We Help Ensure Healthier Litters: Each puppy starts life with the best possible genetic foundation.

2. We Uphold Ethical Standards: Our focus on health testing aligns with the highest principles in responsible dog breeding.

3. We Strengthen the Breed: Through careful selection and awareness of genetic risk factors, we contribute to the long-term wellness of German Shorthaired Pointers.

Interested in Learning More?

If you’d like additional information on these tests, our breeding program, or to inquire about upcoming litters, feel free to contact us. We’re always happy to share our knowledge and passion for raising healthy, well-rounded GSPs that excel in the field and at home.