Breed Health Tests

 Australian Shepherd Breeder Health Exams, Tests and DNA
A - Z
Updated November 2014
(Our dogs genetic health tests may be found at the bottom of this page.)

The cost of health testing to the responsible breeder is estimated at $600 per dog prior to breeding.
The test expenditure is dependent on location and test service provider selected.
- Tests May Include -
(OFA Eye Exam, OFA Hips/Elbow, MDR1, HC, CEA, PHA(optional), ASCA DNA and AKC DNA if required)
B/B is a coat color test for red factor and is optional.

Aussie Genetics Fact Sheet: Australian Shepherd Genetic Disease Prevalence
by C.A. Sharp
Fact Sheet: http://www.ashgi.org/home-page/genetics-info/health-surveys/2010-breed-health-survey

CANCER:
The two most common cancers are hemangiosarcoma and lymphoma
At present, there is no known genetic screening test for cancer.

CEA: Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA) Animal Genetics Test $75 + cheek swab free OR blood draw, about $35 Veterinarian blood draw.
Australian Shepherds - Animal Genetics  CEA, HC, MDR1, CMR1, CD, DM tests completed together cost $180
Collection Instructions: Animal Genetics accepts buccal swab, blood, and dewclaw samples for testing. Sample collection kits are available and can be ordered from Animal Genetics.
Order a sample kit from Animal Genetics http://www.animalgenetics.us/Canine/Canine-sample-kit.asp
List of Tests http://www.animalgenetics.us/Canine/Genetic_Disease/CEA.asp
Fact Sheet: COLLIE EYE ANOMALY http://www.ashgi.org/articles/fact_cea.htm

CEA Results: (A dog with one mutant copy and one normal copy of the CEA gene is a carrier – is heterozygous. A dog with two copies of the normal CEA gene is homozygous normal.)  Limits to All Genetic Testing: Whether a test is mutation-based or marker-based, it identifies only the specific mutation being tested or the association between a specific marker set and the disease. For example, a mutation test detects one specific mutation in one specific gene. If there are several different mutations or several different genes that can cause the same condition, one must discover and then test for each mutation and each gene.Collie Eye Anomaly - CEA test from Animal Genetics
In conjunction with genetic testing, an eye exam by a veterinary ophthalmologist is recommended before 8-9 weeks of age, with annual eye exams thereafter. The eye exam will give you information about mild versus severe CEA/CH disease among affected dogs.

Animal Genetics: Canine Combination Rates for Australian Shepherds Tests for the following genetic anomalies :
CEA, HC MDR1, CMR1, CD, DM The cost for the complete panel test is $180
CEA: Collie Eye Anomaly
HC: Hereditary Cataracts (HSF4)
MDR1: Multi-drug Resistance
CMR1: Canine Multifocal Retinopathy Type 1
CD: Cone Degeneration
Australian Shepherds - Animal Genetics  CEA, HC, MDR1, CMR1, CD, DM tests completed together cost $180

Animal Genetics Frequently Asked Questions - Link
Mail test samples and fees to:

DNA
AKC Voluntary DNA Profile

This voluntary program has resulted from significant input from the fancy. The DNA Profile Program is for owners and breeders electing to add value to their breeding programs by eliminating concerns or questions about identification and parentage.

A dog owner may contact AKC for a DNA Test Kit which includes a swab that the owner uses to collect loose cells from inside the dog's cheek. An AKC DNA Profile containing the dog's registration information, genotype, and a unique DNA Profile number is issued for each dog sampled. This DNA Profile number will appear on subsequently issued Registration Certificates and Pedigrees.

AKC DNA $35-40 + Veterinarian blood draw (or) free collection sample using buccal cheek swab
Method: Blood draw OR collected sample using buccal cheek swabs as provided by lab
AKC DNA Kit http://www.akc.org/dna/test_kits.cfm

AKC DNA Test Kit
AKC has two types of kits. The regular kit is available at no charge, and the $40 processing fee (per dog) is due when the sample is returned to the AKC. We also offer a Prepaid Test Kit for only $35 (per dog). You can save $5 per dog by paying in advance.
AKC DNA testing is for purebred AKC registrable breeds only.

DNA Test Kits may be ordered through the AKC Online Store, or by contacting the AKC: AKC DNA Operations
AKC DNA Requirements
AKC DNA Profiling is required for: Frequently Used Sires (dogs having the greatest impact on the AKC Stud Book); imported breeding stock; dogs whose semen is collected for fresh-extended or frozen use; and for the sires, dam and puppies for Multiple-Sired Litter Registration.

AKC DNA
PO Box 900065
Raleigh, NC 27675-9065
phone: 919-233-9767
fax: 919-816-4255
e-mail: orderdesk@akc.org

ASCA DNA  REQUIRED FOR LITTER REGISTRATION $40 blood draw - $45 cheek swab
All sires and dams must be DNA profiled with an ASCA approved laboratory prior to the registration of their first litter
(Effective January 1, 2011).
ASCA Kits can be purchased by printing the Request for DNA Kit form from the Forms Section of this website and faxing it with credit card info or mailing it with a check (U.S. Funds only) to the ASCA Business Office.
Method: Blood draw OR collected sample using buccal cheek swabs as provided by ASCA Supplies lab kit 
ASCA Supplies Lab Kit http://www.asca.org/programs/dna
Approved Lab - Therion International, LLC in Saratoga Springs NY,
The most efficient, reliable and recommended way to provide samples for DNA profiling is the collection of a tube of whole blood, although another alternative, the blood card, is available for the same price.

DNA RESULTS:
DNA-CP – DNA- Certified Profiled – An ASCA registered Australian Shepherd that has been DNA profiled with an ASCA approved lab, but one or both of whose parents have been NOT DNA profiled.
DNA-VP – DNA- Verified Parentage – An ASCA registered Australian Shepherd that has been DNA profiled with an ASCA approved laboratory, and whose parents have also been DNA profiled with an ASCA approved laboratory.



Epilepsy: Aussie Genetics Fact Sheet: Epilepsy
by C.A. Sharp
Fact Sheet: http://www.ashgi.org/articles/fact_epilepsy.htm
Epilepsy is a seizure disorder that can be caused by a variety of things such as injury, infections, toxic exposure and genetics.  At present, there is no known genetic screening test for epilepsy.
Epilepsy Information – Toby’s Foundation  http://www.tobysfoundation.org/

HC HSF4: Hereditary Cataracts (HC) Test - Animal Genetics Test $45
Method: Collect sample using buccal cheek swab provided by "Animal Genetics".
Lab: Animal Genetics, Inc. 1336 Timberlane Road, Tallahassee, FL 32312 · www.animalgenetics.us · Toll Free 866-922-6436 · 850-386-2973
Fact Sheet: HEREDITARY CATARACTS  http://www.horsetesting.com/Canine/HC.htm
Australian Shepherds - Animal Genetics  CEA, HC, MDR1, CMR1, CD, DM tests completed together cost $180
Animal Genetics Frequently Asked Questions - Link
Mail test samples and fees to:

Animal Genetics,
1336 Timberlane RD.
Tallahassee, FL 32312-1766
32312-1766
USA

MDR1: VETMED (PULLMAN, WA) MDR1 Test - Drug Allergy testing fee $70
Test Method: DNA Collect sample using buccal swabs provided by VETMED University of WA at Pullman, WA
Order a testing kit by contacting the Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory at Washington State University: www.vetmed.wsu.edu/vcpl or by phone 509-335-3745 Facts: Some dog breeds are more sensitive to certain drugs than other breeds. Aussies can have adverse reactions to drugs such as ivermectin and loperamide (Imodium). Drug sensitivities result from a mutation in the Multi-Drug Resistance gene (MDR1).
Dogs with the mutant gene cannot pump some drugs out of the brain as a normal dog would. The result may be an illness requiring an extended hospital stay - or even death.
Results: There is now a test available to screen for the presence of the mutated MDR1 gene. Test results indicate if the dog carries M/M two, M/N one or N/N no copies of the mutated gene. For further information on the MDR1 genetic mutation and the test, visit the website of the Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory at Washington State University's College of Veterinary Medicine.
Test Kit: http://www.vetmed.wsu.edu/depts-VCPL/
Problem Drugs WSU: http://www.vetmed.wsu.edu/depts-VCPL/drugs.aspx
***MDR1 Problem Drugs List: Buster Alert http://www.busteralert.org/

MDR1: Animal Genetics (Another testing company)  http://www.horsetesting.com/Canine/CaninePricing.htm 
Animal Genetics MDR 1 - Multi-drug Resistance Drug Allergy testing fee $55.00 US
OR may be completed as a part of Australian Shepherds test- Animal Genetics  CEA, HC, MDR1, CMR1, CD, DM tests when completed together cost $180
Animal Genetics Frequently Asked Questions - Link
Mail test samples and fees to:

Animal Genetics,
1336 Timberlane RD.
Tallahassee, FL 32312-1766
32312-1766
USA

MDR 1 Breeding Table

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Genetic Testing

                                                 

1. The dog must at least 12 months of age at the time of radiogrph
2. The dog must be permanently identified via microchip or tattoo
3. OFA recommends radiographs be taken one month after weaning pups and one month before or after a heat cycle. Physical inactivity because of illness, weather, or the owner's management practices may also result in some degree of joint laxity. The OFA recommends evaluation when the dog is in good physical condition.

PennHIP Canine Hip/Elbow Dysplasia (CHD) PennHIP - Test: Hips and Elbow Cost: TBD by vet
Method: PennHip X-Ray as early as 16 weeks
PennHIP – Alternative (CHD) testing The reliability of the PennHIP method slightly improves with age, with one year 1 year being marginally superior to 6 months, which in turn is marginally better than 4 months.
Method: X-Ray The total fee for a PennHIP evaluation is determined by the veterinarian providing the service. It is important to remember that the total service includes sedation/anesthesia, 3 radiographs, office consultation and all charges associated with mailing and film evaluation. You will not find it necessary to write a separate check for evaluation fees or mailing of your dog's films. The film evaluation charge will be included in the total cost of a PennHIP evaluation.

DYSPLASIA:
DYSPLASTC HIPS: A condition of the hip joint in which the bones are not properly formed. It results in a loose hip socket to thighbone connection causing hip pain and lameness ranging from mild to crippling.

 DYSPLASTIC ELBOWS: A condition of the elbow joint in which the bones are not properly formed. It results in a loose elbow connection causing pain and lameness ranging from mild to crippling.

Certified PennHIP Exam Veterinarians: http://info.antechimagingservices.com/pennhip/navigation/locate-pennHIP-vet/locate-pennHIP-vet.html
When Your Dog Has Hip Dysplasia: http://www.2ndchance.info/hipdysplasiadog.htm
Activities For DYSPLASTIC Dogs: "Encourage your dog to walk and exercise moderately. Swimming is ideal."

PHA Aussie Genetics Fact Sheet:PHA Fact Sheet: http://www.ashgi.org/home-page/genetics-info/heart-and-blood/pelger-huet-anomaly
Pelger-Huet Anomaly (PHA) test $20 fee + any vet blood draw fee (Submit 2 blood samples per dog)
Send your dog's 2 blood smear samples to:
Kenneth Latimer DMV, PhD, DACVP
Veterinary Clinical Pathologist
680 Morton Road
Athens, GA 30605
706-296-5489
Submit: $20 Check made payable to Dr. Kenneth Latmier
INCLUDE:
Your Name and address
Email Address
(Vet's name if applicable)
Dog's Registered Name
Call Name
Reg. Number
Age or DOB
Sex
Coat Color
Package blood smears securely in a mailing tube or small box. Send to Dr. Latimer's address listed above.

Pelger-Huet Anomaly is an incomplete dominant. Dogs with only one gene are almost always healthy, but if bred to another heterozygote, the pups that receive two PHA genes will be reabsorbed, stillborn or die shortly after birth.

PHA is a breeder's problem, rather than an owner's, because it rarely affects the health of a dog but results in small litters or loss of neonates. There is a blood test to screen for it (make sure the lab does the canine test, not one for another species because they don't work for dogs).

All Aussies used for breeding whose parents have not tested clear of PHA should be screened. If a dog carries PHA, don't ever breed it to another carrier. Be sure anyone buying puppies of a PHA carrier for breeding knows that they will need to be screened to determine their PHA status before being bred.

MDR1 m/n, HC n/n, CEA n/CEA (Oh! Zana had an eye injury, not hereditary.)

MDR1 m/n