Until about 2004, the answer would have been a resounding no! Unfortunately some conditions have since come to light. There are not many cases of any one condition, nevertheless we are working hard to trace ALL origins of the gene inheritance and eradicate any negative genes as best we can. The Breed Advisor is the person to contact for further details.

Most of the conditions apparent are the usual, seemingly inevitable, auto-immune dysfunctions that occur in most pedigree breeds; plus some common non life-threatening conditions, like cryptorchidism. As stated, there are only a few cases of each condition, but considering the Utonagan is not numerous itself we have taken steps to prevent further incidences. All breeding Utonagan must be hip scored and eye tested, and pass satisfactorily (i.e. clear eye tests; low, even hip scores) before being bred from.

Some lines of Utonagan are required to be tested for other conditions too, where they are known to be carried in their line. Again, check with the Breed Advisor to see if this would include your dog.

Any breeder, when approached, should be open and honest with you about any problems they have encountered, or are aware of. We all want the breed to be taken seriously so are taking the above measures to ensure the ongoing good health of our animals and, of course, be able to prove, quantitatively as well as qualitatively, that we are only breeding from healthy, good quality stock.