How to buy a healthy pedigree puppy in the UK: the breed-specific health tests to ask for, hip, elbow and eye scores, DNA tests, flat-faced breeds, the law on puppy sales and microchipping, and warning signs of puppy farms.
Many pedigree breeds are prone to inherited health problems. Responsible breeders use health tests to reduce the risk of passing them on. Knowing which tests apply to your chosen breed, and how to check them, is one of the best things you can do for your future dog's health.
Start with the breed
Research the breed's common health issues before contacting breeders. The Kennel Club's breed pages list recommended and required health tests for its Assured Breeders, and breed clubs often publish health information. Ask your vet too.
Common health tests
Hip and elbow scoring
Under the BVA/Kennel Club schemes, X-rays of the parents' hips and elbows are assessed by specialists. Hip scores range from 0 (best) to 106 for both hips combined. Ask for both parents' scores and compare them with the breed's median score. Elbows are graded 0 to 3, with 0 being best.
Eye testing
The BVA/KC/ISDS Eye Scheme checks for inherited eye diseases in many breeds. Some conditions need an annual exam; puppies can also have litter screening.
DNA tests
Many breeds have DNA tests for specific inherited conditions, such as certain forms of progressive retinal atrophy. Results show whether a dog is clear, a carrier, or affected. Ask to see certificates, not just verbal assurances.
Breathing assessment for flat-faced breeds
Brachycephalic breeds such as French Bulldogs, Pugs and Bulldogs are prone to brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS), which affects breathing. The Respiratory Function Grading Scheme assesses dogs from Grade 0 to Grade III. Ask for the parents' grades and look for puppies with more moderate features: a longer muzzle and open nostrils.
Other tests
Depending on the breed, these may include heart testing (for example in Cavalier King Charles Spaniels), hearing tests (BAER) for breeds such as Dalmatians, or MRI screening for some conditions.
Checking certificates
- Ask for copies of health test results for both parents.
- Check results on the Kennel Club's Health Test Results Finder if the dogs are KC-registered.
- Make sure the names and registration numbers match the parents.
The law
- Lucy's Law: in England since April 2020, puppies under six months can only be sold directly by the breeder or a rehoming centre, not by pet shops or dealers. Wales and Scotland have similar rules.
- Breeder licensing: in England, anyone breeding three or more litters in 12 months, or running a business selling dogs, needs a local authority licence. Ask to see it.
- Microchipping: puppies must be microchipped by eight weeks old, before going to a new home, and registered on a compliant database. The breeder should be the first registered keeper.
- Banned breeds: some types are prohibited, including XL Bully types in England and Wales from February 2024 without an exemption certificate.
Warning signs of a puppy farm or scam
- you can't see the puppy with its mother;
- the seller wants to meet somewhere other than their home, or offers delivery;
- several breeds or litters available at once;
- no health test certificates, vaccination records or paperwork;
- pressure to pay a deposit quickly, especially by bank transfer before seeing the puppy;
- a puppy that seems unwell, nervous or very young.
Use the Puppy Contract, produced by the RSPCA and Animal Welfare Foundation, to record information from the breeder.
When you bring your puppy home?
- Book a vet check within a few days.
- Update the microchip database with your details.
- Arrange insurance before any health problems are found, as pre-existing conditions are usually excluded.
- Follow your vet's advice on vaccinations and parasite treatment.
Frequently asked questions
Does Kennel Club registration mean a healthy puppy?
Not on its own. Check health test results for the parents.
Are crossbreeds healthier?
Not automatically. They can inherit conditions from both parent breeds, so health tests still matter.
Sources and further reading
- The Kennel Club: Health schemes and tests
- BVA: Canine Health Schemes
- University of Cambridge: Respiratory Function Grading Scheme
- legislation.gov.uk: Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (England) (Amendment) Regulations 2019 (Lucy's Law)
- GOV.UK: Get your dog microchipped
- RSPCA: Buying a puppy
Facts checked on 20 October 2026. Spotted an error? Tell us and we will correct it.