Aussies are a generally hardy breed, however they do have some diseases that can be inherited genetically. This is why all responsible breeders utilise what tests are available before allowing their dogs to be bred.

To do more research on the genetic problems that can occur in Australian Shepherds you can visit the Australian Shepherd Health and Genetics website. This site has excellent articles by Dr Leos Kral and CA Sharp a recognised expert in Australian Shepherd genetics. Also WesternHills Aussies has provided a great overview of some of the concerns (a must read).

The current breed average in Australia for hip score results is around a total of 12 to 13 (out of a possible 106 - the lower the better!). Only those animals with the highest hip's value being less than half the breed average, should be bred. Of course clear eye certificates are a must for any breeding animal.

Tests that you should make sure the parents have had done before buying a puppy include an official hipscore (not just a vet check) and current eye clearance by a registered opthamologist. Preferably also an official score for elbows. On a list of nice-to-have, I would place MDR1, CEA and the cataract DNA test.

Here is a list of some issues known to occur in the Australian Shepherd genepool worldwide: