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Summer 2005
AKC Offers Cutting-Edge DNA Technology
By Tom Sharp, AKC Assistant Vice President of Compliance
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Getting a cheek swab
from your dog is quick and simple. Kerry Blue
Terrier. |
The AKC DNA Certification Program brings cutting-edge
parentage testing technology to owners of AKC-registered
dogs. A cheek swab brush is used to collect the DNA
sample from the dog, and returned to the AKC. The
sample is processed by AKC’s DNA service provider,
and the resulting genotype is entered into the AKC
DNA Database. The information is used to verify parentage
of AKC dogs and for genetic identity purposes. This
technology allows breeders, dog owners, and the AKC
to ensure that the AKC Registry is the most accurate
in the world.
The AKC has built the world’s largest database
of canine DNA profiles for the purposes of parentage
verification and genetic identity and offers the most
comprehensive set of DNA programs for breeders and
dog owners. Many breeders send DNA samples from their
breeding stock to the AKC. The breeder receives an
AKC DNA Certificate for each dog, and the dog’s
DNA Profile Number is added to its registration record.
Thereafter, puppy buyers see the DNA number on their
pup’s registration papers and pedigree, and
know they can DNA certify their pup to verify its
parentage.
AKC inspectors have been collecting DNA samples from
litters (and sire and dam) since 1998. The inspectors
examine breeders’ record- keeping and identification
practices, evaluate the care and conditions of dogs
and kennels, and use DNA testing as an audit of the
litter registrations. This program, run at AKC’s
expense, ensures the integrity of the AKC registry.
In addition to voluntary participation in the DNA
programs, there are some mandatory requirements. DNA
Certification is required for Frequently Used Sires
(FUS), dogs who sire seven or more litters in their
lifetime or more than three in a calendar year. Approximately
45 percent of AKC litters are sired by FUS dogs, and
this requirement has guaranteed that the DNA profile
is on record with the AKC for those dogs who have
the greatest impact on the registry.
DNA is also required for dogs whose semen is collected
for fresh-extended (chilled) or frozen use. Certification
is not required for artificial inseminations using
fresh semen when both the dog and bitch are present.
This requirement assures that DNA is on file when
the semen is separated from the dog and shipped or
stored. If questions were to arise in the future about
whose semen was used to produce a litter, breeders
can rest assured that the AKC has that dog’s
DNA on file and the parentage can be verified.
Both the voluntary and mandatory DNA programs have
met with great support from dog breeders and help
to make the AKC registry the best all-breed registry
in the world. Visit www.akc.org
or call (919) 233-9767 to order a DNA testing kit.
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Ronald N. Rella, director,
Breeder Services
Theresa Shea, editor | Email: AKCbreeder@akc.org
| Joanne Beacon, designer
Customer Service | Phone: 919-233-9767 | Email: info@akc.org
© The American Kennel Club 2005 |
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