Couple of questions for ya' . 1st ) At what age would you start the DNA testing of your keepers ? Holding back 2 pups and would like to do PRA/RD and Coat color. Would like to know as soon as I can (about the PRA/RD). I was thinking 3 or 4 months of age would be OK . Is that to young ?
2) Microchipping of the litter. 7 weeks an OK age ? and Eye's. I was told, but I can't remember if they say 1st exam at 7 weeks or was it 8 weeks ? What about exposure to other dogs ? Makes me worry about Parvo :eek: .
Microchipping at 7 weeks is fine - eye exams at the same age. Just take the puppies in to the vet's in a crate and don't let them walk in - I strap a crate to a crate dolly and just roll them all in.
As far as DNA testing, I usually wait to do the expensive stuff until after they have passed joint clearances, unless you plan on washing out anything that isn't Optigen Clear. For me, the hips/elbows are either go or no-go if they don't pass. The Optigen simply helps with breeding decisions, not whether to keep or place the dog.
Thanks ! Would it be best to take two kennels, one to put the puppies who have received their exam and one with the puppies "waiting" ? Sorry, this is a first for me. I was told once but lost all that little bit of info.
I guess I'll do the DNA clearances after pelims come back then..