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Dog DNA
Profiling
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With the
exception of identical twins, every dog has unique DNA and over the
past few years, it has become possible to record a dog's genetic
fingerprint or profile to
establish a
secure, permanent 'tamper-proof' means of identity (ID) for your
canine in case it is lost or stolen. In cases where the identity of a
dog needs to be proven, a tatoo or microchip is usually adequate but
neither method is foolproof. Tattoos can become difficult to read
and microchips can stop working. Unlike the microchip or tatoo
where the information stored is limited, the DNA profile can provide
much more.
The Canine Profiling (Genotyping) technology can be used to establish
parentage among canine families, the unique set of allele sizes for the
dog are tested and recorded. Since a dog
inherits half of his DNA from his dam and the other from his sire, this
means that half of a dog’s DNA profile is inherited from his dam and
the other half from his sire. This allows breeders
to confirm the authenticity of their line. Provided that the DNA
profiles of both parents are available, pups in a litter can be
profiled and their profiles checked with their parents' profile to
verify that the correct parents have been registered.
The profile could also be used to check the authenticity of a DNA
sample being used to screen for the presence of disease-causing genes.
It is worth bearing in mind that profiles do not give information on
the disease status. Many such tests are being developed and it would be
invaluable to be able to verify that the correct dog's DNA is being
tested for the presence of the deleterious gene. Repeating the DNA
profile on the same sample of DNA being used to carry out the gene test
would be straightforward and prove conclusively that the correct animal
is being tested.
The profile need only be produced once and the DNA sample used to
produce it can be stored as a permanent DNA record throughout the dog's
life. Testing is inexpensive, quick, easy and painless and
requires only a sample using a buccal swab for collecting cheek cells
or a small blood sample. You will receive a detailed Canine
Profile (Genotyping) Certificate showing your dog's unique allele sizes
along with an explanation of the results.
The
Kennel Club DNA profiling service
DNA profiling
costs £15 per dog, and this amount is payable on ordering a
profiling kit. Once ordered, a kit will be sent to you together with
instructions on how to get a sample from your dog (by rubbing loose
cheek cells onto a swab). Once you have taken the sample, you will need
to return the kit, in the envelope provided, to the laboratory. Once a
DNA profile has successfully been completed, you will receive a DNA
Profiling Certificate and your dog's KC records will be updated
accordingly.
http://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/item/463
