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Embark Dna test
- Thread starter gideup
- Start date
Which inherited diseases do you test for? I see I'm way over my head here as I have no idea what vgl genetic diversity testing is? Its about time responsible breeders offer the results of these new type of dna tests like the embark test to the consumer so they know of possible dcm or wobblers problems down the road.
MeadowCat
Well-Known Member
DCM is not able to be predicted, at this point, even with genetic testing. We've only identified two genetic markers that are involved in DCM, not definitively predictive of DCM. Dr. Meurs, who is one of those who is working on the project, has cautioned that we not jump the gun in relying on this genetic testing in making breeding decisions nor in thinking that it will tell us whether a dog will or will not develop the disease. It's important to understand the complexity of DCM; a dog may be positive homozygous (that is, carry two copies of one of the identified mutated genes) and never develop dilated cardiomyopathy. A dog may also be negative (that is, carry no copies of that particular gene) and still develop DCM. The current gene testing is one tool that we can currently use, and I could argue mostly for research purposes.
When it comes to breeding decisions (and puppy buying decisions), close study of pedigrees with cause of death, health and longevity of not only parents, grandparents, and so on, but also siblings and on out, is still one of the best tools we have, as well as those breeders doing yearly health monitoring of breeding dogs (and on up the line, when dogs are still living) - yearly holters and echos, blood panels to check liver, etc. Ideally, they are also keeping up with pet owners and hopefully getting as much health information from them as possible, and encouraging similar health checks. I also prefer slightly older dogs to be bred - my preference is for an older bitch, and as old a male as possible, to get the best picture of longevity and health in the pedigree as I can.
We must not think that this genetic testing is something it's not. Useful, yes, but not for everything.
When it comes to breeding decisions (and puppy buying decisions), close study of pedigrees with cause of death, health and longevity of not only parents, grandparents, and so on, but also siblings and on out, is still one of the best tools we have, as well as those breeders doing yearly health monitoring of breeding dogs (and on up the line, when dogs are still living) - yearly holters and echos, blood panels to check liver, etc. Ideally, they are also keeping up with pet owners and hopefully getting as much health information from them as possible, and encouraging similar health checks. I also prefer slightly older dogs to be bred - my preference is for an older bitch, and as old a male as possible, to get the best picture of longevity and health in the pedigree as I can.
We must not think that this genetic testing is something it's not. Useful, yes, but not for everything.
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