If researching a breed known to suffer from syringomyelia what if any heath tests would you expect parents to have had?
My hubby has been pleading for a Griffon (his 3rd year of asking so not a whim) I tried to put him off due to syringomyelia but have said I will try to find out more.

It's an MRI scan but there are no firm guarantees.

Thanks- He has wanted a Griffon for ages and I am worried due the possibility of this disease.
TBH I don't know enough about it. Wish he would have picked another breed.

Why not visit the Discover Dogs stand for Griffons at Crufts? They should have all information there :)

It's on my list :)
I also want to watch some of the breed judging etc.
I would fill the house with Paps so it's only fair he gets a dog of his choice too - I just don't know enough about them and their health problems

As far as I know, the Griffon breeders have been at the forefront when it comes to SM testing etc, very open about it, trying to do something, I have got a very good impression of the breed from what I have heard. So yes speak to them and see what's what.

Will do Thanks

You could contact Clare Rusbridge at Stone Lion Veterinary Clinic in Wimbledon.  She is an expert on this.

Syringomyelia is in the griffon. Some griffon breeders are testing their breeding stock. The best way forward is to ask any breeder the grading of the litter parents. Grade A to Grade A  means that the parents do not have syringomyelia. A grade D means that the parent has syringomyelia but does not show any symptoms. A grade C means the parent is under 2.5 years (the recomended age for MRI testing for the condition) but does not have syringomyelia.

I would recomend that you only buy from a breeder who has tested the parents of the puppy by MRI scanning (the only way to know if a dog does not have the condition). Griffons make wonderful pets and I can understand your husbands desire. You will find a griffon where both parents have been tested. Grade A to Grade A gives the offspring the best chance of not having the condition. There are griffons that do not have the condition.

Some breeders also test for heriditory cataracts. Though it is not a requirement to do so. The best option is to purchase your pup who will bring great delight to your family from a breeder who has tested the litter parents(ask to see the gradings) with an MRI scan for syringomyelia and eye tested clear.