Introduction
DNA testing for dogs prior to breeding has become increasingly popular among responsible breeders. Testing allows breeders to make informed choices about breeding pairs to avoid potential health issues in puppies. While not mandatory, DNA testing provides valuable insights that can aid ethical breeding practices. This helps produce happy, healthy puppies and maintain breed standards.
A dog’s genetic makeup impacts susceptibility for certain diseases and conditions. DNA tests can screen for hundreds of genetic mutations associated with disorders like epilepsy, eye disease, blood disorders, and joint problems. Testing the parents beforehand reduces the chances of these being passed down. It also helps identify carriers that could unknowingly transmit issues. With this knowledge, breeders can better pair dogs and prepare for any potential complications.
While DNA testing has limitations and requires careful interpretation, the wealth of information it provides makes it a useful tool for responsible breeding. This article will explore the key benefits and considerations of testing your dog before breeding to support informed choices and healthy litters.
Types of DNA Tests
There are several types of DNA tests available for dogs:
Parentage Testing
Parentage or pedigree testing is done to confirm a dog’s ancestry and parentage. It compares the DNA of a puppy to its alleged parents to determine if they are the actual parents. This helps ensure accurate pedigrees.
Disease Screening
Disease screening tests check for genetic mutations that cause inherited diseases like degenerative myelopathy, von Willebrand’s disease, and progressive retinal atrophy. Testing allows breeders to avoid breeding dogs who carry disease-causing mutations.
Coat Color
Coat color tests identify genes that produce different pigments and patterns. This helps breeders predict what coat colors puppies may have.
Other Tests
Other DNA tests check for drug sensitivity, exercise needs, and over 100 genetic traits. These help provide insight into a dog’s health and behavior.
Benefits of Testing
There are several key benefits to DNA testing your dog before breeding:
Confirm parentage: DNA tests can confirm that a puppy’s parents are who the breeder claims they are. This protects against accidental breedings and confirms purebred status.
Screen for genetic diseases: Tests can check for genetic mutations that cause inherited diseases like progressive retinal atrophy or degenerative myelopathy. This allows responsible breeders to avoid breeding dogs that carry disease-causing genes.
Predict traits: DNA tests can reveal genes that influence traits like coat color, shedding amount, and body size. This helps breeders better plan litters.
Responsible breeding practices: Testing allows breeders to make informed choices for the health and wellbeing of puppies. Following testing guidelines from kennel clubs demonstrates a commitment to ethical breeding.
Potential Drawbacks of DNA Testing
While there are benefits to DNA testing dogs before breeding, there are some potential drawbacks to consider as well:
False Positives and Negatives
Like any medical test, DNA tests are not 100% accurate. There is a chance of getting a false positive result, where the test indicates the dog has a certain disease but they do not actually have it. False negatives are also possible, where the test fails to detect a disease or genetic mutation that is present.
Expense
Comprehensive DNA testing can be quite expensive, especially if testing both the dam and sire. Costs vary between $100-300 per dog. For breeders producing multiple litters, these costs add up.
Doesn’t Test All Diseases
While DNA tests screen for many genetic diseases and traits, they do not test for every single potential inherited disorder. There are some diseases that cannot be tested for, or do not yet have a genetic screening test developed.
When to Test
The best time to DNA test dogs before breeding is well in advance of any planned litter. Testing should be completed before any mating takes place, as the results may impact your breeding decisions. This allows you to factor the test results into selecting the sire and dam.
It’s also highly recommended to test dogs before selling any puppies. Buyers often inquire about health screening results, so having the DNA tests completed shows you are a responsible breeder. Testing the parents provides valuable insight into potential inherited diseases or conditions the puppies may face.
Knowing this genetic information upfront allows you to provide transparency to buyers and determine if any special care is needed for the puppies. It also sets up the puppies for success by matching them with owners prepared to handle any potential health issues.
How Testing Works
A DNA test for a dog is performed by collecting a sample and sending it to a laboratory for analysis. There are a couple different methods used to collect the DNA sample:
Swabs inside the mouth – This is the most common and least invasive method. A sterile cotton swab is used to collect cheek cells from inside the dog’s mouth. The process is very quick and simple.
Blood tests – The vet will draw a small amount of blood from the dog, usually from a vein in the leg. This provides DNA from blood cells. It requires brief veterinary involvement.
Once the sample is collected, it is packaged up and mailed to the DNA testing laboratory. The lab processes the sample to extract and analyze the DNA. Sophisticated equipment and computer analysis is used to generate the dog’s genetic profile.
Results are provided to the owner after the lab completes the DNA analysis. Turnaround time can range from a couple weeks to over a month depending on the lab.
Understanding Results
Once the DNA testing is complete, you’ll receive a report with your dog’s results. This will include a breakdown of your dog’s genetic health risks, trait predictions, and breed profile. Here’s an overview of what you can expect to see in the report:
Sample Reports
DNA test results are presented in an easy-to-understand format, similar to something you would receive from your own genetic testing. You’ll see color-coded categories for low, moderate, and high risk conditions. There may also be visual charts, graphs, and illustrations to depict breed ancestry.
The reports are designed to be simple enough for every dog owner to comprehend. However, it can still feel overwhelming to interpret all the data at first. Reputable companies provide genetic counseling and veterinary support to help explain the results.
Interpreting Disease Risks
One of the key sections is the disease risk profile, which estimates your dog’s chances of developing different genetic conditions. Low risk doesn’t guarantee your dog won’t get the disease, but it means they have a lower predisposition.
For moderate and high risks, you can take preventative steps, get early screening, and discuss monitoring with your veterinarian. But don’t panic over moderate risks, as environmental factors also play a role. Only high risk conditions are likely to manifest or require breeding precautions.
Keep in mind that no dog has zero risks. The testing allows you to be aware and prepared. With proper care, most dogs can enjoy good quality of life even if they have a genetic mutation or risk.
Costs
The cost of DNA testing for dogs can vary quite a bit depending on the specific test and company used. On average, expect to spend $60-150 for a basic DNA breed test. More extensive tests screening for genetic diseases or traits can cost $150-300 on average.
Some factors that affect the cost of dog DNA testing include:
- Type of test – A basic breed test is cheaper than one screening for genes linked to health conditions.
- Number of breeds tested – Tests covering over 200 breeds tend to cost more.
- Add-ons like health screening – Adding disease screening raises costs.
- Turnaround time – Faster results might mean paying a premium.
- Company reputation – Highly-regarded companies often charge more.
It’s a good idea to compare prices between testing companies. Look for deals and discounts when available. For health and disease screening, only use tests from reputable companies to ensure accuracy.
Choosing a Company
When selecting a dog DNA testing company, you’ll want to look for a few key factors:
Recommended brands:
- Wisdom Panel – One of the most well-known and reputable brands in dog DNA testing. They offer a variety of test kits and have a large breed database.
- Embark – Specializes in genetic health screening as well as breed identification. Known for their scientific rigor.
- DNA My Dog – Budget-friendly option that provides breed identification. Good for basic breed testing.
Things to look for:
- Breed database – The larger the company’s breed database, the more accurate the breed identification results will be.
- Health screening – Some companies test for genetic health risks and traits, an important factor for breeding dogs responsibly.
- Customer reviews – Check reviews and community forums to gauge reliability and reputation.
- Price – DNA tests can range greatly in cost, so find an option that fits your budget.
- Sample requirements – Most companies only need a simple cheek swab, some require hair/saliva.
- Turnaround time – Testing can take 2-6 weeks on average. Choose based on your timeframe.
Take your time researching different companies to find the best DNA test for your specific needs and budget.
Conclusion
In summary, DNA testing your dog before breeding can provide many benefits but also has some potential drawbacks to consider. The key benefits include being able to verify parentage, screen for genetic diseases, and ensure breed purity. However, testing can be expensive and doesn’t guarantee healthy puppies. Responsible breeders carefully weigh these factors when making decisions about testing.
Most experts recommend DNA testing breeding dogs whenever possible, especially for high-risk breeds. Testing allows breeders to make informed choices that protect puppy and public health. By screening breeding dogs, responsible breeders can reduce the chances of propagating inherited disorders. While not definitive, testing provides important information to guide breeding practices.
In the end, responsible breeding requires a commitment to the health and wellbeing of dogs. While not universally mandated, DNA testing is an important tool that should be utilized whenever feasible. For dogs, their puppies, and the humans who love them, DNA testing can support more responsible breeding practices.