Siberian Husky Health Testing Requirements for Stud Dogs

Siberian Huskies are arctic sled dogs renowned for endurance and stamina. Their primary inherited health concerns center on eye disease, making comprehensive ophthalmologic and DNA eye testing essential for all breeding stock.

The Siberian Husky Club of America (SHCA) participates in the OFA CHIC program with a focus on the breed's documented eye conditions.

CHIC Requirements for Siberian Huskies

Hereditary Cataracts (HC-HSF4)

Hereditary cataracts are the most significant inherited eye disease in Siberian Huskies. Unlike the posterior polar subcapsular cataracts caused by HSF4 in some other breeds, Huskies develop bilateral cataracts that can progress to complete opacity and blindness.

HSF4 is autosomal dominant with incomplete penetrance — meaning one copy can cause cataracts (though not in every case). All breeding stock should be tested; carriers should only be bred to Clear dogs.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

Two PRA mutations affect Siberian Huskies: XLPRA1 (X-linked, affecting primarily males) and a separate autosomal recessive form. CAER eye examination and DNA testing for XLPRA are recommended.

Hip Evaluation

OFA Good or Excellent hips; hip dysplasia occurs in Huskies, particularly in heavier lines.

Laryngeal Paralysis

Hereditary laryngeal paralysis occurs in Huskies (the Husky-specific form is distinct from the acquired laryngeal paralysis of older large breeds). No genetic test currently exists; select against affected pedigrees.

Summary

A responsible Siberian Husky stud dog should have: OFA hip evaluation, current annual CAER eye exam (hereditary cataracts can develop progressively), HSF4 DNA testing, and PRA DNA testing. Hereditary cataracts are the most important health concern in this breed — any stud dog with cataracts or untested for HC-HSF4 represents a significant risk to a breeding program.