sorensen
corgis
Our Practices
von willibrand disease (vwd)
A genetic condition that can affect a dog’s ability to clot blood properly. While most dogs with vWD live normal lives, it's something to be aware of, especially for surgeries or injuries.
exercise-induced collapse (eic)
Can cause dogs to become weak or collapse after intense exercise or excitement. It’s most commonly seen in active breeds and usually shows up in young adult dogs. While many dogs with EIC live completely normal lives with proper activity management, we take this condition seriously
a rare but serious genetic disorder that affects the immune system, leaving affected puppies unable to fight off infections. It is inherited through the X chromosome, meaning it primarily affects male puppies, and symptoms usually appear at a very young age. Unfortunately, this condition is fatal.
WHAT DO WE TEST FOR?
X-linked Severe Combined Immunodeficiency (xscid)
DEgenerative myelopathy (dm)
Can affect a dog’s spinal cord, typically later in life, and may lead to weakness or paralysis in the hind legs. While there is no cure, it’s important to know that not all dogs with the gene will develop the disease. We health test all of our breeding dogs for DM to make informed and responsible pairings.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
Is a genetic eye condition that causes the gradual deterioration of the retina, eventually leading to vision loss or blindness. It typically develops slowly over time and doesn’t cause pain, but it can impact a dog’s quality of life as they age
While DM, vWD, EIC, PRA, and XSCID are some of the most important genetic conditions we screen for in Corgis, our commitment goes even further. Each of our parent dogs is tested for over 230 genetic health risks, and their full testing results are linked under their individual profiles for full transparency. We believe in making informed, responsible breeding decisions to give our puppies the healthiest possible start and to give our families peace of mind.
About IVDD (Intervertebral Disc Disease / VDD):
IVDD, also referred to as VDD (Vertebral Disc Disease), is a condition that affects the spine, particularly in short-legged, long-backed breeds like Corgis. It occurs when the cushioning discs between the vertebrae degenerate or herniate, which can lead to pain, weakness, or even paralysis. Type I IVDD is linked to a specific gene mutation, and nearly all Corgis carry two copies of this gene due to their naturally long, low build. This means all Corgis are genetically predisposed to disc issues, and there is currently no way to breed it out without changing the breed itself.
While the risk is real, many Corgis live their entire lives without ever having a disc problem. Keeping your dog at a healthy weight, limiting jumping from heights, and supporting good posture can all help minimize the chance of injury. We’re always happy to educate our puppy families on how to care for their dog’s back and spine for the long haul.