English Springer Spaniel Health Testing Guide: PFK, FN, PRA & More
The English Springer Spaniel carries two breed-specific hereditary conditions that are entirely avoidable with DNA testing. Here is the complete health testing protocol for ESS studs.
The Two Critical DNA Tests
Phosphofructokinase Deficiency (PFK)
PFK is a metabolic enzyme deficiency causing haemolytic anaemia and exercise intolerance. Affected dogs tire easily, may have pale gums after exercise, and can experience crisis episodes. It is specific to English Springer Spaniels (and American Cocker Spaniels).
Every ESS stud must be PFK tested.
- Clear: No copies — cannot produce Affected offspring
- Carrier: One copy — acceptable if dam is Clear
- Affected: Two copies — should not be bred
Fucosidosis (FN)
Fucosidosis is a lysosomal storage disease causing progressive neurological deterioration. Affected puppies appear normal at birth but develop movement problems, behaviour changes, and eventually die. It is specific to English Springer Spaniels.
Every ESS stud must be FN tested.
- Clear: Cannot produce Affected offspring
- Carrier: Acceptable if dam is Clear
- Affected: Should not be bred
Both tests are available through Paw Print Genetics, Animal Genetics, and Laboklin.
Additional Required Testing
Hip Evaluation (OFA)
Hip dysplasia occurs in ESS, particularly in show lines. OFA Fair or better is required. Good or Excellent preferred.
Eye Certification (CAER)
Annual CAER exam. Two forms of PRA affect the breed:
- cord1-PRA (RPGRIP1): DNA test available — Clear or Carrier required.
- prcd-PRA: DNA test available — Clear or Carrier required.
Both PRA DNA tests plus annual physical exam is the complete eye protocol.
Elbow Evaluation (OFA)
OFA elbow evaluation recommended for show-line studs.
Full Testing Summary
| Test | Priority | Where to Test |
|---|---|---|
| PFK (DNA) | Required | Paw Print Genetics, Animal Genetics |
| FN (DNA) | Required | Paw Print Genetics, Laboklin |
| cord1-PRA (DNA) | Required | Paw Print Genetics, Optigen |
| prcd-PRA (DNA) | Required | Paw Print Genetics, Optigen |
| Hip (OFA) | Required | Radiograph submitted to OFA |
| CAER (annual) | Required | Board-certified ophthalmologist |
| Elbow (OFA) | Recommended | Radiograph submitted to OFA |
Summary
PFK and FN are the two tests that separate responsible ESS breeders from careless ones. Both conditions are entirely preventable. Every ESS stud should be Clear or documented Carrier on both tests, with Clear dam partners for any Carrier stud. Add OFA hip evaluation and dual PRA DNA testing plus annual CAER exams to complete the panel.