GENETIC TESTING
The development of genetic testing has been a game changer in the science of breeding dogs. While the science continues to evolve, we are currently able to test our breeding dogs for over 200 genetic markers.
All of our Australian Shepherds are genetically tested by us, even if they come from parents with completely clear panels. This assures my mind that I am completely confident when I utilize their genetics in our program. Typically the results are contained in a six page document and I have included Dual Ray's (Doolie) testing results below as a sample.
The development of genetic testing has been a game changer in the science of breeding dogs. While the science continues to evolve, we are currently able to test our breeding dogs for over 200 genetic markers.
All of our Australian Shepherds are genetically tested by us, even if they come from parents with completely clear panels. This assures my mind that I am completely confident when I utilize their genetics in our program. Typically the results are contained in a six page document and I have included Dual Ray's (Doolie) testing results below as a sample.
| doolies_embark.pdf |
Because these file sizes are so large I typically only post the results on our pages, but per your request, I am happy to share them with customers.
With these testing results and the appropriate computer program, I am able to compute a mating virtually and compare the outcome before I choose to actually breed the pair. Utilizing this innovative science is just one extra step we take in producing amazing companions. While there are so many obvious benefits from our ability to test for so many disease markers, there are some considerable disadvantages that need proper consideration.
First of all is accuracy. For example, the MDR1 gene which affects all collie type breeds often times appears clear and can lead owners to believe they don't need to follow MDR1 protocol and yet many genetically clear dogs are still showing MDR1 reactions.
Next, is a complete understanding of genotype. Some alleles in a genotype are simple dominant and recessive, while others can vary, such as an incomplete dominant gene. Which in simplified terms, means if a dog carries only one copy he could be affected compared to a dominant gene which interprets as he is affected.
Third of all, the genetic testing companies are adding new tests at an astounding rate, this means that dogs tested a couple years ago may need to be retested for the newest panel available.
And finally, but possibly the most concerning is the exclusion of dogs that offer genetic diversity and desirable traits moving forward, and yet are excluded from the breeding pool based on a recessive carrier of an undesirable trait. With all of the criteria that we use to select for already (disposition, conformation and so forth) it certainly could reduce the viability of the breed in the future.
First of all is accuracy. For example, the MDR1 gene which affects all collie type breeds often times appears clear and can lead owners to believe they don't need to follow MDR1 protocol and yet many genetically clear dogs are still showing MDR1 reactions.
Next, is a complete understanding of genotype. Some alleles in a genotype are simple dominant and recessive, while others can vary, such as an incomplete dominant gene. Which in simplified terms, means if a dog carries only one copy he could be affected compared to a dominant gene which interprets as he is affected.
Third of all, the genetic testing companies are adding new tests at an astounding rate, this means that dogs tested a couple years ago may need to be retested for the newest panel available.
And finally, but possibly the most concerning is the exclusion of dogs that offer genetic diversity and desirable traits moving forward, and yet are excluded from the breeding pool based on a recessive carrier of an undesirable trait. With all of the criteria that we use to select for already (disposition, conformation and so forth) it certainly could reduce the viability of the breed in the future.