The Kennel Club has today (21 August 2023) announced the expansion of its DNA Testing Services, with the launch of an extended Labrador Retriever breed-specific DNA package.
This comprehensive package now includes tests for Exercise-Induced Collapse (EIC) and Hereditary Nasal Parakeratosis (HNPK), alongside the previously available tests. In addition, the dilute (D-locus, d1 variant) has been added to both Labrador Retriever packages, further enhancing the insights these packages provide to breeders and owners to help them understand their dog’s genetics.
Priced from £60, with an introductory offer of 15% off until 31 August with promotional code NEWPACKAGE, The Kennel Club DNA Testing Service offers a convenient and simple health testing solution, combining all the breed-specific DNA tests into one comprehensive package – with results that are easy to interpret and accompanied by breeding and care advice returned within 1-4 weeks.
Available for 78 breeds and aimed at anyone considering breeding, and any owner who wants to better understand their dog’s genetics, The Kennel Club DNA Testing Service collects a dog’s DNA sample via a simple cheek swab. From the swab, the service checks the DNA for markers associated with a number of different inherited breed-relevant disorders and provides advice to help reduce the risk of producing puppies affected by these conditions, so they can ultimately be eradicated through responsible breeding.
Test results will automatically be registered on a dog’s record and available on The Kennel Club website, allowing breeders to find health-tested mates, and puppy buyers to check if the dog they are thinking of buying has come from health-tested parents.
The service is uniquely developed by The Kennel Club, one of the UK’s largest dog health organisations, in partnership with Weatherby's Scientific, to advance understanding of dog genetics and disease, with those who use the service contributing to canine genetic research – both through data collection and with all funds reinvested into ongoing research and health initiatives.
Charlotte McNamara, Head of Health at The Kennel Club commented: “The Kennel Club is delighted to launch this extended DNA testing package for the Labrador, which is one of the UK’s most popular breeds. This enables more caring breeders and responsible owners to have a genuine and positive impact on the health of future generations of dogs, in an easy and accessible way.
“We’ve also listened to feedback on the services, which were launched last year, and have reduced turnaround times, with results, alongside relevant breeding and care advice, now being returned within 1-4 weeks.”
The Kennel Club’s DNA Testing Services, and more information about DNA testing, can be accessed at thekennelclub.org.uk/dnatesting
To explain the importance of DNA testing, the impact it can have on dog health and how it can help to eradicate some of the most concerning genetic disorders facing certain breeds, The Kennel Club’s geneticist, Dr Joanna Ilska, hosted a free webinar which can be viewed via The Kennel Club’s YouTube channel.