Common Health Assessments
Hip & elbow dysplasia evaluation through Australian scheme
DNA Testing
Genetic screening for breed-specific conditions
ACES Examination
Australian Canine Eye Scheme annual checks
Patella Evaluation
Patellar luxation screening by certified vets
Why Australian Testing Matters
The report should identify the dog by microchip or recognised tattoo
Scheme and Date
Check who performed the assessment and when
Actual Result
Read the score or finding, not only the word 'tested'
Visibility
Some ORCHID results may be private, so request the original report
DNA & Genetic Testing
- Use only validated tests for a specifically named variant
- GM2 gangliosidosis is one condition reported in the breed
- A clear DNA result applies only to the tested variant
- Glaucoma risk requires ophthalmic assessment, not a generic DNA panel
Orthopedic Assessment
- CHEDS hip scoring (Canine Hip & Elbow Dysplasia Scheme)
- Elbow dysplasia evaluation
- Patellar luxation examination
- Overall structure assessment
Ophthalmic Screening
- ACES (Australian Canine Eye Scheme) examination
- Annual eye checks recommended
- Cataract and retinal disease screening
- Eyelid abnormality assessment
| Scheme | What it assesses | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| CHEDS Program | Hip and elbow dysplasia scoring | Administered by Dogs Australia since 2016 |
| ACES Scheme | Comprehensive eye examinations | Examined by a registered veterinary eye specialist |
| DNA Testing Labs | Genetic condition screening | Check the laboratory, exact variant and result |
| Patella Certification | Patellar luxation screening | Assessment by a veterinarian; record the grade and date |
Understanding CHEDS in Australia
The Canine Hip and Elbow Dysplasia Scheme (CHEDS) records radiographic hip and elbow assessments. The AVA and ANKC originally developed the scheme jointly, but the AVA withdrew in 2016 and Dogs Australia now has sole administrative responsibility. Dogs must be at least 12 months old, and identity is confirmed on the images by microchip or recognised tattoo. Results are recorded in ORCHID and breed statistics are derived from submitted data.
Health Testing Best Practices in Australia
Do
- Choose breeders who provide complete health testing documentation
- Verify CHEDS and ACES certifications through official Australian schemes
- Ask about both sire and dam's health testing results
- Consult with Australian veterinary specialists for interpretations
Don't
- Accept 'vet checked' as equivalent to comprehensive health testing
- Overlook the importance of ongoing health monitoring
- Assume imported health certificates meet Australian standards
- Ignore breed-specific genetic testing requirements
Questions to Ask Australian Breeders
- "Can you provide the CHEDS reports for both parents?" - Match the identity and read the hip and elbow results
- "Which DNA variants were tested, by which laboratory, and what were the results?"
- "When were the parents last examined through ACES, and is separate glaucoma assessment relevant?"
- "Have the parents been assessed for patellar luxation?"
- "What other screening was selected for these dogs, and why?"
- "What does the written agreement say about health issues?"
Building an Appropriate Testing Plan
A testing plan should be based on the conditions documented in the breed and the individual dog's pedigree, rather than a generic panel. Discuss hip and elbow assessment, specialist eye examination, patella assessment and validated DNA tests with a veterinarian and the relevant registry or breed club. Screening information supports breeding decisions but cannot guarantee the health of an individual puppy.
Cost of Health Testing in Australia
Fees vary by clinic, imaging, sedation, specialist, laboratory and scheme charges. Dogs Australia publishes current CHEDS reading fees, but radiography and veterinary fees are separate. Ask the clinic, specialist and laboratory for a current written quote rather than relying on a national estimate.
Australian Health Records
Dogs Australia administers CHEDS and maintains ORCHID, while ACES examinations are carried out by registered veterinary eye specialists. ORCHID is designed to record health information and produce public statistics, although owners choose whether each individual result is public or private. Check the current scheme pages because administration, authorised readers and fees can change.
Looking for more Shiba Inu health information?
Explore our breeding dog health profiles or check our puppy care guide for comprehensive Shiba Inu health information.
Health-testing note: Select and interpret tests with a veterinarian and the relevant scheme or registry. Screening reduces uncertainty but does not guarantee an individual dog's health.