What information does the DNA testing provide?
AKC DNA Profiling is for genetic identity and parentage verification purposes only. It does not provide information regarding genetic health, conformation, performance ability, coat color, etc. AKC DNA testing does not determine the breed of a dog.
Can DNA testing determine the breed of a dog?
No. AKC DNA testing does not determine the breed of a dog.
Why did the AKC get involved in DNA?
DNA offers the AKC the possibility of ensuring the accuracy of the registry in a way never before possible.
What is the DNA Profile Program?
The DNA Profile Program is a voluntary program the fancy can use to strengthen their breeding programs. Participants receive an AKC letter of DNA Analysis with the dog’s registration information, owner’s name, DNA Profile Number, and the dog’s actual genotype.
How can I order a DNA Test Kit?
A prepaid, barcoded AKC DNA Test Kit costs $50 (per dog).
Previously, $50 non-prepaid DNA kits were also offered by AKC, but these kits will be phased out beginning in 2021. If you have already purchased one of these kits, you can still use it to submit DNA for your dog by following the original procedure of mailing your sample, payment and information to AKC DNA Operations. DNA Test Kits may be ordered through the AKC Online Store, or by contacting the AKC: email: orderdesk@akc.org; fax: 919.816.4255; phone: 919.233.9767; mail: AKC DNA Test Kit, American Kennel Club, P.O. Box 900065, Raleigh, NC 27675-9065.
Please include your name, address, and the number of dogs you wish to test. Include $50 per dog (plus $7 shipping & handling) for Prepaid Test Kits; Prepaid DNA test kits are nonrefundable.
Will the DNA information appear on Registration materials?
Yes, if the dog is individually registered at the time the swab is submitted to the AKC. After the Profile of DNA Analysis has been issued, all subsequent Registration
How is the sample collected?
A small bristle brush is inserted in the dog’s mouth, swirled against the inside of the cheek and the sample is collected. It is this simple collection process that makes it possible to use DNA on a large scale to help the accuracy of the AKC registry.
How are the samples processed?
For the Compliance Audit, AKC staff members collect, identify, seal and mail the samples to AKC. For the DNA Profile Program, the owner or owner’s agent enters the information regarding the sample into the DNA Online Portal (dna.akc.org), collects the sample and mails it directly to the laboratory (Neogen). After processing by Neogen, the resulting genotypes are transmitted to AKC for inclusion in the AKC DNA Database.
As a reminder, please note that the new DNA kits require activation using the enclosed barcode and activation code at DNA.AKC.ORG prior to submission. Failure to do so will result in delays in receiving results and AKC registration.
If you do not have access to a computer to activate your DNA Kit, you will be required to mail your barcoded DNA kit into AKC to the following address:
AKC DNA Operations
PO Box 900065
Raleigh, NC 27675-9065
Please include a note indicating your name, mailing address, email address, phone number and dog information if you are mailing the kit to AKC for processing.
What is the Compliance Audit Program?
The Compliance Audit Program is a mandatory part of the Inspections program and includes the use of DNA for parentage verification. Breeders are selected on a random basis by AKC management for routine kennel inspections. All costs connected with DNA processing and analysis will be paid by the AKC, except retesting of excluded litters. An administrative fee of $250 will be charged when a breeder/owner requests retesting of an excluded litter.
As a breeder/owner/broker using AKC services, what happens if I refuse to make my dogs available during a routine kennel inspection?
Refusing to make dogs available for DNA testing is considered the same as refusing inspection and may result in action by the AKC Management Disciplinary Committee. Inspection procedures provide that the AKC has the right to inspect the records required to be kept and to examine any dog registered or to be registered with the American Kennel Club. Such examination may include DNA tests or other procedures at the discretion of the AKC. Responsible breeders with accurate records have everything to gain by incorporation of these DNA tests into the routine inspection program.
What was the Parent Club Program?
AKC DNA Operations staff collected samples on a voluntary basis at Parent Breed Club National Specialties. The Program increased the awareness and understanding by the fancy of both the feasibility and advisability of using DNA, and will guarantee that the best genetic markers are being used among AKC breeds. The Parent Club Program began in 1998 and concluded in 2000.
Who owns the DNA samples and are they stored?
All samples collected become part of the AKC DNA program and database. They will be archived at the discretion of the AKC.
What if I still have questions?
Please contact AKC DNA Operations.