I am new to the forum and I would like to know about hip scores and clear eye certificates,
I am wanting to purchase a black Labrador puppy, but dont really understand these terms
i.e what is a good hip score, and what is meant by clear eyes. in laymans terms
Thank you

Right, hips first.

The hips are x-rayed and the plates are submitted to the BVA/KC panel for evaluation. The panel measure shape, clearances and angles of the pelvic socket and femoral head and award marks for any deviation from perfect. The lowest (best) score is 0 and the highest (worst) is 53 per side. The scores are normally written down in a format such as 7/5 which would mean that the right hip lost 7 marks and the left lost 5. Often these two scores are added together and in this case would be written down as 12. Hips can only be scored in the UK on dogs over 1 year old and is a once in a lifetime test. The average score for Labradors is 16 total.

Eyes.

Eyes should be tested under the BVA/KC/ISDS scheme by one of the appointed panellists. Sessions are held at some breed shows and sessions organised by individuals around the country. Some vet's surgeries also occasionally organise to have a panellist available to test their clients dogs.

Labradors can suffer from Central Progressive Retinal Atrophy, Generalised Progressive Retinal Atrophy, Hereditary Cataract, Multifocal Retinal Dysplasia and Total Retinal Dysplasia. They are also at present under investigation for Abnormal pigment deposition. 

Because such things as Hereditary Cataract can become apparent at any age up to 9 or 9 years old the eye test should be carried out each year.

Regards, John

Hi John
Thanks for the very clear response to my questions
I am about to purchase a black Lab puppy, and wasn't sure of the meanings of the tests
Kind regards Harry

Have lots of fun with your pup when you gets it and come back and tell us all about it :)

Best wishes, John