Health Testing

At Sweet Tea Australian Labradoodles, the health and longevity of our dogs are of utmost importance. While the Australian Labradoodle is generally regarded as a healthy breed—thanks in large part to its careful development—we are committed to maintaining and enhancing that legacy through comprehensive health testing of all our breeding dogs.

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We are proud to have achieved the Platinum Paw status with the Australian Labradoodle Association of America (ALAA), the highest level of health testing recognition available. This distinction reflects our dedication to responsible breeding practices and our commitment to producing puppies with the best possible start in life.

Each of our breeding dogs undergoes an extensive panel of health evaluations, including:

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1. OFA Hips, Elbows, and Patellas – Hips and elbows are assessed twice: first at around 5-7 months of age (preliminary), and again at approximately 2 years (final certification).

2. OFA Cardiac Evaluation – Screening for congenital and adult-onset heart conditions.

3. OFA Eye Certification – Comprehensive ophthalmologic exams performed every 18 months.

4. Genetic Disease Screening – Conducted through Paw Print Genetics, covering conditions such as:

   • prcd-PRA (Progressive Rod-Cone Degeneration): a retinal disease that leads to vision loss.

   • vWD (Von Willebrand Disease): a clotting disorder.

   • EIC (Exercise-Induced Collapse): a condition where strenuous activity can cause temporary collapse.

   • DM (Degenerative Myelopathy): a progressive disease of the spinal cord.

   • Additional genetic conditions relevant to the breed.

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By rigorously testing and selecting our breeding dogs, we work to reduce the risk of inherited health issues and ensure that each Sweet Tea puppy comes from parents with excellent health profiles. This high standard of care reflects our mission: to uphold the integrity of the breed and provide families with healthy, happy, and well-adjusted companions.