When searching for Rottweiler puppies for sale in the UK, health testing is the single most important thing to understand. It is also the area where most buyers are most easily misled. This guide explains each test in plain English so you can ask the right questions and recognise the right answers.

Why Health Testing Matters in Rottweilers

Rottweilers are a large, heavy breed. Their joints carry significant load throughout their lives. Several serious conditions are hereditary in the breed — meaning they are passed from parent to offspring through genes. Responsible breeders test their breeding stock and only breed from animals with acceptable results. Irresponsible breeders do not test, which means their puppies carry an unknown risk of developing these conditions.

Buying from an untested bloodline is not a small risk. Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and JLPP are all conditions that can cause significant pain, reduce quality of life, and result in large veterinary bills. Testing before breeding dramatically reduces — though does not eliminate — the hereditary risk.

BVA Hip Scoring

The British Veterinary Association runs the official UK hip scoring scheme in partnership with the Kennel Club. Here is how it works:

  • X-rays of the dog's hips are submitted to BVA-approved assessors
  • Each hip is scored from 0 to 53, where 0 is perfect and 53 is the worst possible
  • The two scores are added for a total out of 106
  • The Rottweiler breed average is approximately 12 to 14
  • Responsible breeders only breed from dogs scoring well below this average

When asking a breeder for hip scores, insist on the actual numbers. A combined score of 40 has technically been scored — but should not be bred from. The numbers tell the story. Any breeder who says the dogs have been scored but cannot provide the certificates with the actual scores should be treated with caution.

BVA Elbow Grading

Elbow grading uses a simpler scale:

  • Grade 0 — Normal. No signs of elbow dysplasia
  • Grade 1 — Mild changes
  • Grade 2 — Moderate changes
  • Grade 3 — Severe changes

The grade used for breeding assessment is the higher of the two elbows. Responsible breeders only use Grade 0 animals in their breeding programme. Grade 2 or 3 animals should never be bred from.

JLPP DNA Testing

Juvenile Laryngeal Paralysis and Polyneuropathy is a fatal neurological disease specific to Rottweilers. Puppies born with two copies of the faulty gene develop progressive paralysis and typically die or are euthanised before 12 months of age. The DNA test is definitive and simple — a swab is taken and the result is one of three:

  • Clear — The dog carries no copies of the faulty gene and cannot pass it on
  • Carrier — The dog carries one copy. Can produce carriers or clear dogs when mated to a clear dog, but never affected puppies
  • Affected — The dog carries two copies. Should never be bred from

A responsible breeder tests every breeding dog and plans matings to ensure no affected puppies are produced. Ask to see the actual DNA test certificates — not just a claim that the dogs have been tested.

DM DNA Testing

Degenerative Myelopathy is a progressive spinal disease that causes hind limb weakness advancing to full paralysis in older dogs. Like JLPP, it is caused by a faulty gene and is testable. The same Clear, Carrier, Affected classification applies. Responsible breeders test and plan matings accordingly.

The minimum you should accept: BVA hip scores with actual numbers, BVA elbow grades, JLPP DNA test result, DM DNA test result — for both the mother and the father. No exceptions.

What to Do With This Information

When you speak to a breeder, ask for all of the above. A responsible breeder will send you the certificates immediately and without hesitation. They will be able to explain what the numbers mean and why they chose to breed these two particular dogs together.

If a breeder becomes defensive, says testing is unnecessary, or cannot produce the actual certificates — that is your answer. Move on.

If you have questions about health testing or want to see our parent certificates before enquiring about a puppy, call us on +44 7897 021151. Transparency is not something we have to be asked for. It is standard.