Dogs are the sum total of all of their parts. Simple words, but think about how important good structure is! If the dog is not built correctly, or there is a malformation or degenerative disease, the health of the dog very well might suffer - in varying degrees of discomfort or pain. Reputable dog breeders strive to produce dogs that are correct in conformation and temperament. One cannot tell if a dog has "good hips" by looking at the dog: a radiographic film (x-ray) is the most accurate diagnostic tool.
        The film is looked at by three board certified veterinary radiologists, and they each grade the hips. The grades are averaged (if the opinions are not the same), and the average is the assigned grading. If the radiograph shows that the dog is not dysplastic the OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) will certify that the dog is free of CHD, and if it is over 24 months of age, it will be assigned a permanent OFA number. The three grades are "FAIR", "GOOD", and "EXCELLENT"; all three mean that the dog does not have CHD. "Fair" means that there are minor irregularities; but not dysplastic. "Good" is where the majority of the passing grades are for any given breed, and "Excellent" would indicate superior joint conformation. If the dog is dysplastic, the OFA will grade accordingly, and the dog will not receive any certification. Visit the OFA @ www.offa.org to learn more exacting definitions, see examples, and read other information.
        Please look at the dogs and the films of their hips; learn why we film them, and what we are trying to avoid by doing these health checks. Do your part, be an educated breeder or puppy buyer!