07/05/2026
Having a little celebration here for Olly!
Hip and elbow scoring time is always a stressful time for a breeder as we strive to produce happy, healthy, and sound dogs. Scoring can't be done until the dog is at least 12 months old and involves having xrays of the hips and elbows taken while placed in certain positions and then assessed by a specialist who gives the joints a score. It's important for breeding stock to be screened because hip and elbow dysplasia is inherent in our fabulous breed.
By 12 months of age, you have obviously grown this dog from a puppy, formed a strong bond with them, you are fully invested in them and have plans for a bright future, and one bad result can turn that world upside down.
However, getting good results makes all the stress worthwhile. Olly is third generation Zintahn breeding. He was scored this week, and this one was extra stressful as he is from the last litter Zeus produced before he died. I would have been absolutely crushed if he scored badly, but I am super happy to report that he achieved great results and I can't wait to see what he will produce in the future.
