Most Tamaskan are healthy dogs. However like most breeds, Tamaskan Dogs are predisposed to a number of genetic health conditions. A responsible Tamaskan breeder will screen their breeding stock, at a minimum, for Hip & Elbow Dysplasia, Degenerative Myelopathy (DM), and Eyes. Most breeders nowadays are also doing Embark testing.

Hip & Elbow Dysplasia

Each breeding dog should have its hips and elbows checked for dysplasia. X-rays are taken by a qualified veterinarian and evaluated by the OFA (North America), BVA (UK), AVA (Australia) or FCI (Europe). BVA, AVA, and FCI evaluations can be done as soon as the dog is 12 months (1 year) old. OFA evaluations require that dogs be at least 24 months (2 years) old for a certified result.

The OFA also offers uncertified preliminary results for dogs between the ages of 4 and 24 months, recommending that dogs who receive a preliminary score of fair or mild hip joint conformation are reevaluated at an older age (24+ months). Most registries do not accept preliminary results for breeding.

For hips, only dogs with a BVA/AVA score of 0-18, FCI A or FCI B, or OFA Excellent, OFA Good or OFA Fair should be used for breeding. Elbows should be clear (0).

Degenerative Myelopathy (DM)

Degenerative Myelopathy is a progressive disease of the spinal cord in older dogs. The disease is believed to be an autosomal recessive condition. This means that dogs who inherit two copies of the DM gene mutation (one from its mother and one from its father) will have an increased risk of developing the condition. Each breeding dog should be tested to see if they carry the mutation. This can be done by a simple swab DNA sample that’s sent on to a laboratory who tests for the mutation. The DM test is included in Embark! Carriers may only be bred to dogs who are clear.

Eyes

There are several eye conditions found within the Tamaskan breed. Such as Cataracts, Corneal Dystrophy, Distichiasis and Goniodysgenesis. A lot of eye conditions can appear later in life, therefore all breeding dogs must undergo annual eye testing as long as they are actively breeding. As Goniodysgenesis is one of the conditions that can affect the Tamaskan, an additional test called ‘Gonioscopy’ is also strongly recommended. Within the Tamaskan breed Gonioscopy is generally done just once. However if a dog has relatives affected with Goniodysgenesis it is advised that the Gonioscopy is completed every 3 years as Goniodysgenesis can progress with age.

Embark

Embark is a dog DNA test that offers breed identification, genetic screenings for over 200 health conditions, coat colour traits insights and genetic diversity measurements. Many Tamaskan breeders test their breeding dogs with Embark, and some even test all their pups before going to their new homes! Embark can detect wolf content which is useful for breeders matching pups and buyers (as some countries/states do not allow any wolf content). Embark can also predict the expected genetic COI for breeding pairs.

Outcross

Outcross dogs should have all the same tests done as the Tamaskan, as well as additional testing depending on the breed/mix. For example, any outcross dog with German Shepherd in their bloodline should be tested for Pituitary Dwarfism.