KooeeKeis Australian Cobberdogs ~ Ethical Family Breeder in WA
Why KooeeKeis Australian Cobberdogss Test for Inherited Conditions
When families start looking for a puppy, they mainly see cute photos and wagging tails. What they don’t see is the years of planning and health screening that go on quietly behind the scenes.
Australian Cobberdogs are bred to be exceptional companions and therapy-suitable dogs. Because they live so closely with their families, as responsible breeders we test for genetic diseases to ensure puppies have the best chance of a long, healthy, pain-free life.
CDDY and IVDD – Disc Disease Risks
What are CDDY & IVDD?
CDDY is a gene linked to body shape traits like shorter legs, but it also carries a serious downside.
That same gene increases the risk of IVDD (Intervertebral Disc Disease), where spinal discs can degenerate and rupture.
Why test for it?
Cobberdogs are meant to be active family dogs – going for walks, jumping into cars, playing with kids.
If a breeder does NOT test:
They might breed dogs that carry high IVDD risk
Puppies can grow into adults with back pain or even paralysis
By testing:
Breeders can avoid pairing two high-risk dogs
They can select for Cobberdogs with healthier spines and better mobility
So this test helps protect your future puppy from preventable spinal problems.
CDPA – Chondrodysplasia (Cartilage and Joint Development)
What is CDPA?
CDPA is another form of chondrodysplasia. It affects how cartilage develops in the dog’s body and can influence joint and limb structure.
Why Cobberdog breeders screen for it
Australian Cobberdogs are bred for balanced, functional structure. Screening for CDPA helps ensure:
Puppies develop with sound movement
Legs and joints form correctly
The dog has good physical comfort as it matures
It is part of breeding dogs who are not just emotionally calm, but also physically comfortable.
Copper Toxicosis – Liver Health
What is Copper Toxicosis?
This is a genetic condition where copper builds up in the liver because the dog cannot process it properly.
Over time it can cause:
Chronic liver disease
Serious illness
Early death if undetected
Why test for it?
The problem is that carrier dogs often look perfectly healthy for years.
Testing allows breeders to:
Identify carriers early
Avoid risky combinations
Protect puppies from inheriting a condition that could lead to devastating liver failure later in life
For families, this means peace of mind that your puppy is far less likely to face a hidden genetic liver disease.
Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease – Heart Health
What is Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease (MMVD)?
An inherited heart condition where the mitral valve slowly deteriorates, leading to heart murmurs and potentially congestive heart failure in older dogs.
Why it matters in the Australian Cobberdog
Cobberdogs are expected to be long-lived companions. A dog that develops early valve disease may:
Tire easily
Need lifelong medication
Have a shortened lifespan
Why breeders test
Screening breeding dogs for MMVD helps:
Reduce inherited heart problems
Select parent dogs with strong cardiac health
Produce puppies who can stay energetic and engaged with their families for many years
