Genetic screening tests are a tool used by Responsible Shorkie breeders to help reduce the incidence of certain problems in the Shorkie breed.

Due to the enormous expense involved many breeder today do not test. That is a true and SAD fact. We require it in the Shorkie Club Of America. It is incumbent on all Shorkie breeders, and anyone who buys a dog from a reliable breeder, to be honest and open about any problems they experience. By judiciously sharing information, screening for genetic diseases, carefully researching the background of all dogs incorporated into a program, a breeder can make significant strides to eliminating problems from their dogs.


Eye exams (CERF)(2): Shih Tzu and Yorkies  do experience various eye problems, most notably PRA and rental Dysplasia  . Years ago this was a significant problem in the breed. Today, through eye checks and careful breeding, the occurrence is small. Eye exams need to be done yearly, and many diseases do not manifest themselves until the dog is older.

Thyroid (OFA)(3) Hypothyroid (underactive thyroid) is common to the Shih Tzu there fore can efeect the Shorkie. Hypothyroidism causes poor coat, weight gain, conception problems, lethargy, grumpiness. Left untreated, more serious neurologic and muscular problems can result. It is easily treated with daily medication, but dogs who have this condition should not be bred. Tests should be done yearly, and dogs don’t usually experience problems until they are older.

Heart (OFA): Shorkies do experience various heart diseases. Cardiomyopathy, an enlargement of the heart which is fatal over time, is perhaps the most common. (Medication can extend the lifespan.) Unfortunately, this does not often occur until the dog is older. To complicate the issue, cardiomyopathy can also be caused by infections.

Other heart diseases, such as TVD (tricuspid valve dysplasia) are present at birth, although outwardly the puppy may appear normal in all ways. TVD is often fatal at a young age, and there is often a high whelp mortality in litters of bitches who are carriers. There is no treatment.

Heart exams should be done every one to two years.

Hips and elbows (OFA or PENN-HIP(4)):

Hips and elbows are done once, after the age of two years. A panel of three vets reads the x-rays and grades them. However, there are a few known test cases where x-rays were relabeled and re-submitted and a different rating was received.