The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals evaluates x-rays of hips and elbows to determine whether a dog has hip or elbow dysplasia, inherited degenerative bone diseases. Kerries are, unfortunately, one of the few breeds in which hip dysplasia is on the rise. Make sure both parents were registered with CERF, the Canine Eye Registration Foundation within the last 12 months. This means that the dam and sire were examined by a member of the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists and found to be unaffected by any major heritable eye disease. Even breeders who do all the required testing, carefully plan their litters, and have each puppy physically examined by a vet cannot guarantee that a future problem will not develop.
Breeding is an imperfect science at best.
No, not necessarily. Some bloodlines have a higher prevalence of cysts than others. I think the key here is to look at the number of cysts and the age of the dog. Therefore, unless the dog is covered with this condition, it should not impact your decision to buy one of its offspring.