08/14/2026
Why testing your breeding dogs eyes is important
* Labradors are a breed in which inherited eye health is an important part of responsible breeding.
* A CAER/OFA eye exam screens for observable inherited eye disease, helping breeders make informed decisions about which dogs should be bred.
* Eye conditions of concern can include cataracts, retinal dysplasia and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), among others.
* A normal eye exam does not guarantee a dog is genetically clear of every eye disease—it is a clinical screening exam, not a DNA test.
* OFA eye certification is valid for one year, and annual re-examination is recommended.
* For Labradors specifically, ACVO/OFA information notes that early examination may not reliably identify certain forms of geographic retinal dysplasia, so re-examination around 1½–2 years is recommended for that concern.
* Recording results with OFA creates useful health information for breeders and helps puppy buyers see documented screening efforts.
WHY CERF/CAER EYE EXAMS MATTER IN LABRADORS
The Labrador Retriever is known for being an active, versatile breed, but responsible breeding means looking beyond temperament and appearance. Regular eye screening by a board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist helps identify observable inherited eye conditions and provides valuable information for making responsible breeding decisions.
Screening helps:
• Detect eye disease that may not yet be obvious to the owner
• Protect vision and quality of life
• Reduce the risk of passing significant inherited eye conditions to future generations
• Provide documented health information through OFA
• Support responsible, informed Labrador breeding
Healthy eyes are an important part of a healthy Labrador—and screening today helps protect the breed’s future.