Why Health Testing Matters
TTR's Tips & Pointers Blog
Building a Stronger Future for Our GSPs
At The Tipsy Rabbit GSP TopDog Kennel, we believe that true quality begins with health. When you’re adding a German Shorthaired Pointer (GSP) to your family, it’s about so much more than a cute face or a stylish point in the field—it’s about giving yourself the best chance of raising a dog that is healthy, sound, and able to live a full and happy life.
This is where health testing comes in and why it’s one of our core commitments at TTR.
What Is Health Testing and Why Is It Important?
Health testing means screening breeding dogs for specific hereditary conditions known to affect their breed. It's not just a "nice to have"—it's an essential tool responsible breeders use to:
- Reduce the risk of inherited diseases
- Strengthen breed lines
- Give puppies the best possible start in life
At The Tipsy Rabbit, we follow the guidelines set by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA), the recognized leader in companion animal health certifications. Our health testing includes:
- Hips (OFA or PennHIP): Screening for hip dysplasia, a painful and debilitating joint condition.
- Elbows (OFA): Screening for elbow dysplasia, another orthopedic issue that can severely impact mobility.
- Eyes (OFA CAER exam): Ensuring eyes are free from congenital and hereditary defects.
- Cardiac (OFA Advanced Cardiac exam): Screening for heart defects that could impact long-term health.
- Cone Degeneration (Genetic DNA test): Detecting the risk of hereditary vision issues.
- Von Willebrand’s Disease (Genetic DNA test): Screening for a blood-clotting disorder.
Each of these tests plays a critical role in protecting the future health of the breed—and the happiness of the families who love them.
All our health testing results are submitted and recorded with the OFA for full transparency and public verification online.
TTR’s Commitment to Health Testing Excellence
At The Tipsy Rabbit GSP TopDog Kennel, we proudly conduct recommended breed-specific health testing before any dog is considered for our breeding program.
We are committed to:
- Completing full health panels on hips, elbows, heart, eyes, and relevant genetic markers
- Reporting results directly to OFA for public record
Providing health guarantees against hereditary hip and elbow dysplasia (with spay/neuter terms) - When you bring home a TTR puppy, you can trust that they come from parents who have been thoroughly evaluated and cleared for major health concerns.
- Transparency isn't just a policy—it’s our promise.
OFA Search-TTR's Whiskey Tango Foxtrot
Why You Should Always Ask Breeders About Health Testing
When searching for your next companion, it’s essential to ask breeders:
What health tests have been completed?
Can I see copies of OFA certifications or DNA health panels?
Are results publicly recorded through OFA or similar registries?
What health guarantees are provided?
A reputable breeder welcomes these questions—because responsible breeding starts with being honest and informed.
Choosing a breeder who invests in comprehensive health testing protects not only your future dog but also the breed itself. It ensures you are setting your family up for a lifetime of memories, not preventable health issues.
At The Tipsy Rabbit, We’re an Open Book
At TTR, we’re proud to be completely transparent with our families.
From offering copies of health clearances to walking you through what each test means, we believe that informed families make the best families. Because raising healthy, happy German Shorthaired Pointers isn't just our passion—it’s our responsibility.
Staying connected with our families also plays a crucial role in our commitment to the breed. Ongoing updates allow us to track the long-term health and development of our puppies, helping us make educated, thoughtful decisions for future pairings. Every piece of feedback helps us continue raising TopDogs with excellence, heart, and purpose.
📸 Featured TopDog: TTR’s Whiskey Tango Foxtrot, Call Name: Goose