Can anyone say when s the best time to have hips scored season Wise ie: does a season affect scores with hormones softening ligaments, muscles, etc do you wait a cpl months after season has finished or does it not seem to matter ?
Thanks x

> does a season affect scores with hormones softening ligaments, muscles, etc do you wait a cpl months after season has finished or does it not seem to matter ?

People will say all sorts but I believe it's best to wait for a couple of months after the end of her season. We once asked Steve Dean if this was correct and he said yes, it was common knowledge. Mind you, I don't always agree with that gentleman but I do on this occasion!

I don't suppose a study has been done x-raying a bitch during and between seasons to get data on this but my feeling is;-
as it's a one off test and important to get the best x-rays possible to be scored etc - then why risk having it done near a season.  Far better to wait 3 months.  I think most people have them done around a year and as most breeds should be 2 or over for their first litter - there is no major hurry.

I do know someone who had their bitch done during a season and her scores were good, but I wouldn't do it.  My pup is now 11 months old and in season - I am more than happy to wait 3 months before having her done.  Yes, I am keen to know her scores but she won't be going anywhere even if she does have high hip score.

Hope this helps

I got my girl hip and elbow scored 3 months after her season, it only happened for when I had the money... Eyes were done first as its cheaper and if she failed then I wouldn't of done the scoring.. We got her heart done last as had to organise our own heart testing..
The Rott club will be doing heart testing days and we will be organising more in the south as the interest is very high!!! Let me know if you want to be added to the list for updates :)

As statistically bitches score a little worse than dogs, hormones may well affect the score, so I do try to score midway between seasons.  Can't do any harm.

I expect more difference will be made by using a vet experienced with hip x-rays, so prefer to use and orthopaedic vet, or someone who does a lot of hip x-rays..

Thanks everyone I was hoping to go a cpl months after her next season but just thought I'd inquire as to ppl's views, sue jaw yes keep me posted pls, did you do the temperament test on saturday? It made it a right long day waiting about but was thrilled with the outcome x

I didn't do it as it doesn't count towards the 3 needed to get an excellent.. Sigh!!! The BRA and Rott Club's are the only ones which amount to it.. Bizarre eh? :-(

There is another one at The Rott Clubs open show in December...
Ive added you to the list for heart testing :-)