Education Library
Our Approach: DNA Screening and Testing-Informed Breeding Decisions
Hollywood Bulldogs AUS is a British Bulldog breeding program that uses DNA screening, ADAMTS3 awareness and professional veterinary advice where appropriate to inform breeding decisions. This library is an educational resource describing our approach. It is not a research publication and is not a veterinary clinical guide.
Introduction
The British Bulldog occupies a unique position in veterinary science. As one of the most popular yet medically complex companion breeds, the gap between responsible breeding and commercial breeding has never been wider.
Hollywood Bulldogs AUS uses a 6-panel DNA screening approach alongside professional veterinary advice where appropriate. This library exists to explain, in plain language, how those inputs inform our breeding decisions.
The 6-Panel DNA Protocol
We have moved beyond the common 4-panel test by using a 6-Panel DNA screening approach to inform our breeding decisions.
ADAMTS3 (Airway Architecture)
We map the genetic variant associated with BOAS. This allows for the selection of breeding stock based on internal respiratory integrity, moving beyond visual guesswork.
Cystinuria Type I & II
We clear both distinct genetic mutations. This provides a metabolic shield against the formation of jagged, glass-like bladder stones in the renal system.
HUU, DM, CMR1
Full molecular screening for uric acid stones, spinal health, and retinal integrity.
Together, these six panels provide a complete genotypic profile — not a guess based on physical appearance, but a molecular fact derived from laboratory sequencing. This is the difference between phenotypic assessment and genotypic certainty.
For a full technical deep-dive, see our 6-Panel DNA Masterclass and Health Testing Approach page.
Whelping Environment
Our program operates from a dedicated 3-room whelping wing within our residence. This private, biosecure space is equipped with vet-grade and human-grade equipment, including neonatal incubators and surgical-grade sanitisation. Caesareans and reproductive procedures are performed by independent reproductive veterinarians, including Dr Scott Norman, who is engaged for those services. The facility supports 24/7 monitoring within a home-socialisation environment.
Why This Matters
- Reproductive veterinarians bring evidence-informed expertise to procedures and professional advice — replacing anecdotal "breeder wisdom" where it matters.
- A dedicated whelping wing reduces cross-contamination risks inherent in shared residential spaces.
- Puppies raised in the home develop superior socialisation behaviours versus kennel-raised alternatives.
Read the full approach in our Breeding Decisions Informed by Professional Advice guide.
How Our Approach Compares to Common Industry Practice
The table below contrasts the inputs Hollywood Bulldogs AUS uses to inform breeding decisions with practices commonly seen elsewhere in the British Bulldog market. It is a description of our own approach, not an audit of other breeders.
| Criteria | Common Practice | Our Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Breed Focus | Mixed / general | British Bulldog (single-breed focus) |
| Professional Input | Hobbyist mentors | Independent reproductive veterinarians engaged as needed |
| DNA Screening | 4-panel (basic) | 6-panel (inc. ADAMTS3) |
| Whelping Environment | Residential spare room | Dedicated whelping area |
| Breeding Inputs | "Eyeball test" (visual only) | DNA results + structural assessment + functional breathing assessment |
Accreditation & Endorsement
Hollywood Bulldogs AUS is a registered member of the Master Dog Breeders & Associates (MDBA) — Member #18715, and operates under the 'Breeding Brachys for Health' program.
We value professional advice from specialists, including Dr Scott Norman (BVSc, PhD, DipACT, GCEd, MANZCVS) — one of Australia's leading Registered Specialists in Veterinary Reproduction — which helps inform aspects of our ongoing breeding and health decisions. Dr Norman did not design or develop our breeding program or protocols.
View the full endorsement on our Health Program page.
© 2026 Hollywood Bulldogs AUS · MDBA Registered Member #18715 · Queensland, Australia