There is a lot of controversy surrounding the DNA testing of dogs, specifically breeders versus buyer’s mentality, but there is no way to deny that DNA testing can significantly help any dog breed. The problem with breeding is that is has been going on for so long and certain breeds are genetically predisposed to certain problems, some of which can be quite serious. Reputable, responsible dog breeders have always made a point of not breeding dogs which display any of these problems, but this is no longer enough. The problem with this technique, as breeders have been noticing for quite a while now, is that you can still end up breeding a carrier of a breed specific health or behavioral problem without even knowing it – the carriers never necessarily exhibit the symptoms of the problem itself, but they pass it on to their puppies, and then breeders are left with a litter of whelps which are either carriers themselves or ultimately develop the problem.
With DNA testing, it is now possible to test for certain genetic defects and problems. That way, breeders can end the cycle and they will no longer have to take chances which inevitably result in breeding a carrier and making his or her progeny suffer for it. Given that the ultimate goal of the good, responsible dog breeder is to make every litter of puppies better than his or her parents, these DNA techniques give them a much better chance to do this. They will be able to get closer and closer to achieving the Breed Standard, something that it has long been understood could not ever really be reached. Now, it is potentially possible – or at least more possible than it has ever been before.
As well, some dogs possess genetic mutations that cannot be seen or in any way observed. These mutations can be passed on to puppies as well, where they will continue to mutate and get worse and worse. DNA testing can also make it possible to stop breeding dogs like this. They can be spayed or neutered instead, so that the problem stops there. This is vitally important because too many people are far too prone to get rid of dogs which display any abnormalities, health problems, or imperfections. These dogs end up in shelters or on the side of the road. They risk being put to sleep through something that is in no way their fault.
DNA testing may be able to lead to the complete elimination of, for example, the hip problems in large and medium dogs, like Cocker Spaniels, Labradors, and Retrievers. The nervous conditions in many over bred small dogs – poodles are the best example of this – may be able to be phased out, or at least improved upon so the dogs themselves are not miserable and sickly.
The controversy surrounding DNA testing in dog breeds mainly extends to the desire to make a “designer dog” – making faster dogs, stronger dogs; dogs which have short hair, long hair, or curly hair, et cetera. However, in terms of making different dog breeds healthier over all, DNA testing has the potential to be a huge help for dog breeds.
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