La Tribu des Airaudes · Vendée, France
Canine health, screening and genetics
Understand breed-specific health screening, DNA tests and clinical examinations for Cavaliers, Golden Retrievers and Shetland Sheepdogs.
Different examinations answer different questions
DNA tests identify specific variants. Cardiac ultrasound, eye examinations, joint checks and MRI assess different aspects of a dog's health. A genetic panel is not a substitute for clinical screening.
We consider breed, family history, age and examination dates together. A result describes the tested variant or the examination at that time; it does not guarantee a dog will never develop disease.
Reading DNA results
For a validated simple recessive condition, a clear dog has no tested risk copy, a carrier has one, and a genetically affected dog has two. Carriers may remain healthy for that condition and can sometimes be used with a clear partner under a considered breeding plan.
This model does not describe every disease. Risk associations, dominant inheritance and drug sensitivity require their own interpretation. Preserving diversity is part of responsible selection.