At Kilgarrin, we are not just passionate about breeding for the show ring and winning. We are also dedicated to the health an welfare of the breed as a whole, but most importantly our own dogs.

 

This is why we have started a program that will ensure the longevity of each puppy we breed, their ability to contribute to the breed further and that what's on their pedigree is correct. 

 

Lowchen are renowned for being a robust and vivacious breed with very few health problems, and we want to keep it that way. This is why all breeding stock is tested every 2 years for PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy). Because PRA gets worse as the dog gets older, it is not a simple case of the dog having it or not. The older a dog is at the onset and the slower the progression, the better it's quality of life. We are yet to have an affected dog.

 

Our breeding stock is currently being DNA Profiled and tested for 'Proof Of Parentage'. This is a task that requires ongoing vigilance and attention. We currently have 3 of or dogs tests and will shortly be having 3 more tested. Of these 6 dogs, 2 of them will have parentage conformation of their Mother and 1 will have both parents proven. Our goal is to have these tests carried out before breeding from future stock. This system will be fully implemented by January 2016. 

 

Next on the list, but of much less importance is to have coat colour genetics tested in our breeding stock. This information will be shared freely to assist those who will continue breeding from Kilgarrin Lowchen make more informed and educated choices, plus it's fun to know!

 

When purchasing a dog from Kilgarrin for the purposes of Exhibition or Breeding, we can have the DNA profile done on your behalf at cost. We are not imposing this on our puppy buyers, but we will assist in having it done.

 

We are most proud to say that all of our bitches a natural whelpers. To date we have not needed to have veterinary assistance in whelping our bitches, nor have we needed to perform a C-section. We also encourage our dogs and bitches to mate naturally, without the assistance of prog testing or AI (artificial insemination). Of course this only applies to when the dog is available in the country to be used.

 

All of our puppies are raised in our home. This means that the bitch and pups have near 24 hour supervision, and that the pups are well socialised and develop a good, even temperament.