Easy-to-use test packages encourage responsible breeding
As part of a continuing effort to simplify the canine health testing process, the Kennel Club and Weatherbys – a UK based company that maintains the thoroughbred breed register for horses – have announced that new, all-in-one health test packages are now available for eight dog breeds.
The new CombiBreed™ health test packages use a single cheek swab to simultaneously test a dog’s DNA for a number of genetic mutations related to inherited disorders. By making testing more cost effective for breeders and eliminating the need to arrange individual tests for each disease, the organisations hope to make it easier to breed responsibly, and contribute to the continuing effort to eradicate these conditions.
All-in-one tests are already available for 12 other breeds including the border collie and Labrador retriever. The eight new breeds that CombiBreed™ is now available for are:
- Giant schnauzer
- Irish setter
- Jack Russell terrier
- Parson Russell terrier
- Shetland sheepdog
- Spanish water dog
- Standard poodle
- Tibetan terrier
The tests are priced at £135 and results will be automatically registered on the dog’s record. Puppy buyers will then be able to check if the parents have had a health-test, by accessing these updated records for free on the Kennel Club website.
The Kennel Club has collaborated with researchers, veterinary surgeons and breed clubs to determine which tests to include for each breed. The breeds currently available for all-in-one testing were selected due to their popularity and the number of DNA tests associated with them, though the Kennel Club has stated that it hopes to add more breeds in time.
To view a list of all the breeds that have all-in-one tests available, along with the conditions that are tested for, visit the Kennel Club website.
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
