November 15, 2020
White paper reviews the state of genetic testing in dogs
The American Kennel Club Canine Health Foundation announced Sept. 15 that it has published a review of the current state of genetic testing in dogs to help dog breeders, dog owners, and veterinarians make sound decisions with regard to interpreting and understanding the implications of genetic test results.
“While scientific advances in the area of canine DNA testing are exciting, they have also led to a desperate need for continued education,” said Eddie Dziuk, chief operating officer of the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals and a member of the AKC Delegates Canine Health Committee, in the announcement. “Dog breeders, owners, and even veterinary professionals often struggle with questions such as test purpose, accuracy, breed specificity/appropriateness, and interpretation of results. The genetics whitepaper is a long awaited and needed resource to address today’s most pressing questions and make better use of these powerful tools to breed healthier dogs.”
The document provides a foundation in canine genetics for anyone involved in the care of and decision-making for individual dogs or breeding stock. The white paper reviews practical applications and limitations of existing genetic tests for the lay audience. The AKC Canine Health Foundation offers the resource as a tool to help improve the health of current and future generations of dogs.