Health Testing Approach
Every Hollywood Bulldogs breeding dog is screened across a 6-panel DNA evaluation. Our decisions are guided by DNA screening, health testing, functional structure, temperament and professional veterinary advice where relevant — not appearance alone.
6 Genetic Markers
Complete panel covering airway, urinary, neurological and ocular health
Evidence-Informed
Breeding decisions informed by current evidence, health testing and professional veterinary advice where appropriate.
Zero Affected Puppies
Strategic pairing ensures no puppy inherits two copies of any disease allele
The 6-Panel DNA Protocol
ADAMTS3
ADAMTS3 — Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS)
The ADAMTS3 gene variant is the single most important marker for airway health in brachycephalic breeds. Dogs homozygous for the beneficial allele (Clear/Clear) have significantly wider nostrils, longer soft palates relative to airway diameter, and measurably better airflow. This is not a cosmetic preference — it is a physiological advantage that determines whether a bulldog can breathe freely, thermoregulate effectively, and exercise without distress.
Cystinuria Type I
Cystinuria Type I — Amino Acid Transport Disorder
Cystinuria Type I causes cystine crystals to accumulate in the kidneys and bladder, leading to painful urinary stones (uroliths) that can obstruct the urinary tract. In bulldogs, this condition is autosomal recessive — meaning a dog must inherit two copies of the mutation to be affected. Carriers show no symptoms but can produce affected offspring if bred to another carrier.
Cystinuria Type II
Cystinuria Type II — Secondary Cystine Variant
Type II Cystinuria operates through a different gene but produces the same dangerous outcome: cystine stone formation in the urinary tract. This variant can be sex-linked in some breeds, making males more susceptible to clinical disease. Our protocol tests for both Type I and Type II to ensure complete coverage — a step most breeders skip entirely.
HUU
Hyperuricosuria (HUU) — Uric Acid Metabolism Disorder
HUU causes elevated uric acid levels in the urine, predisposing dogs to urate bladder and kidney stones. The mutation is common across bulldogs, Dalmatians, and several other breeds. Affected dogs require lifelong dietary management and may need surgical intervention. Testing eliminates this entirely from our breeding lines.
DM
Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) — Progressive Spinal Cord Disease
DM is a progressive neurological disease comparable to ALS in humans. It causes gradual loss of coordination and mobility in the hind limbs, eventually leading to paralysis. While onset is typically later in life (8+ years), the genetic test identifies at-risk dogs decades before symptoms appear — allowing us to breed it out entirely.
CMR1
Canine Multifocal Retinopathy 1 (CMR1) — Inherited Eye Disease
CMR1 causes fluid-filled lesions (blisters) to form beneath the retina, potentially leading to retinal detachment and vision impairment. While some affected dogs remain asymptomatic, others develop progressive vision loss. Our protocol ensures no affected puppies are ever produced.
Independent Veterinary Endorsement
As a veterinarian specialising in reproduction, I can attest to the commitment to ethical breeding practices of Hollywood Bulldogs. Hollywood Bulldogs consistently strive for conformational improvement within the breed, with a particular focus on enhancing airway health to help reduce the incidence of Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS). Their breeding program seamlessly blends both art and science, resulting in healthy, well-balanced dogs.
From a scientific perspective, Hollywood Bulldogs have taken proactive steps by testing for the ADAMTS3 gene to help minimise the occurrence of BOAS in their progeny. This approach has demonstrably contributed to the overall health and well-being of their dogs. I have been impressed by their dedication to the breed and their willingness to embrace both innovative practices and high ethical standards.
Scott Norman (BVSc, PhD, DipACT, GCEd, MANZCVS)
Registered Specialist in Veterinary Reproduction
Director - Kallangur Vet Surgery
1474 Anzac Ave, Kallangur, Qld, 4503