Parent Dog Health

Performing Health Tests is an essential component to good breeding practices.

The tests that are necessary can vary from breed to breed, but all breeds are susceptible to certain health conditions or even diseases.

In many cases, these issues are inherited.

So, genetic testing is one step that responsible breeders take to minimize the risk to future generations of puppies.

In addition, these tests can predict potential breeding outcomes and help ensure the best possible results.

We proudly use Embark® Genetic Tests

Did you know? Why do human siblings not look exactly alike? Why do canine littermates often look different from each other? Even though puppies will receive half of their DNA from their mother and half from their father, the chromosomes they inherit are “shuffled” around in a process called genetic recombination. This means that any two non-identical siblings are going to have some genetic differences.

We perform the following tests and treatment on our parent dogs:

DNA Coat/Trait Panel

This test is important because it provides insight into the sort of traits that your puppy will have. Why is this useful? Knowing from the beginning what traits your puppy will have can help you plan ahead how you will exercise, feed and care for it.

Traits that can be determined through testing include:

  • Hidden Patterning
  • Body Pattern
  • Saddle Tan
  • Harlequin
  • Merle
  • Facial Fur Pattern
  • White Spotting
  • Roan
  • Base Coat Color
  • Color Dilution, Coat pigment and intensity
  • Furnishings
  • Coat Length
  • Shedding
  • Coat Texture
  • Hairlessness (Terrier type)
  • Muzzle Length
  • Tail Length
  • Hind Dew Claws
  • Eye Color
  • Back Muscling & Bulk (Large Breed)
  • Appetite
  • Altitude Adaptation
  • Body Size and Weight
  • and more….

Animal Genetics Panel

Indicates specific gene “markers” that are inherited from both parents.

PRA and Rod-Cone Degeneration (PRA-prcd)

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) is a common term used for a group of inherited retinal diseases. During the progression of the disease, retina of the eye degenerates over time, eventually worsening the condition and ultimately leading to blindness.

This is a DNA-based blood test that helps to confirm the presence of the defective gene. This test identifies dogs with PRA as well as those who are carriers i.e. who may pass the defective gene to their offspring. The PRA-PRCD test is a DNA-based test that helps you avoid one form of Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA).

Full Embark Panel

Enables a dog owner to learn about their pup’s breed, ancestry, health, relatives, and more with a simple cheek swab. With a research-grade DNA genotyping platform, Embark looks at more than 210 genetic health risks. It is the most accurate & highest rated dog DNA kit on the market.