Pregnancy, PennHIP, and OFA

Pregnancy

Pregnancy examinations can be performed with ultrasound in dogs as early as 25 days after their last breeding.  Ultrasound examinations allow us to determine fetal heartbeats and monitor the progression of pregnancy.  Unfortunately, this does not allow us to accurately determine the number of puppies in a pregnancy.

After 50 days of pregnancy, it is recommended that pregnant dogs have x-rays taken for an accurate puppy count, so there are no surprises on whelping day.  For more detailed information on whelping, please visit our Pet Medical Library.

PennHIP

PennHIP is the most accurate science-based hip-screening procedure capable of estimating susceptibility for Canine Hip Dysplasia in dogs as young as 16 weeks of age.  The PennHIP method has been shown to have distinct advantages over other popular screening methods that are performed after the dog is two years of age or older.  

We recommend that the PennHIP procedure be performed in dogs around 5-6 months of age due to slight improvement in screening accuracy at this time, but PennHIP screening may be done at any age greater than 16 weeks.

During the PennHIP procedure, dogs are sedated for a short period of time to capture the best images for submission and review.  The sedation is reversed with medication as soon as the procedure is completed.  

All PennHIP radiographs must be submitted regardless of findings.  This ensures an accurate determination of the incidence of hip dysplasia in the breed population which provides the science to the method.  With the OFA database, you have the opportunity to share PennHIP information with other through the PennHIP website if you wish (although sharing your dog’s results is not mandatory).  

For more detailed information about PennHIP, please visit the PennHIP website.

OFA - Orthopedic Foundation for Animals

OFA is a non-profit foundation database that aims to reduce the incidence of genetic disease.  OFA certifications are available for hip and elbow joints once a dog has reached 2 years of age.  Additionally, all animals with submission for OFA certification must have permanent identification (microchip or tattoo) and have a registration number through the AKC or another breed registry.

Dogs undergoing OFA certification are sedated for a short period of time, and reversed with medication as soon as the procedure is completed.