DNA testing based on identification of a specific gene mutation is 100% accurate for identification of animals that are clear of the disease (homozygous normal), carriers of the disease (phenotypically normal but heterozygous for normal and mutant alleles), or affected with the disease (homozygous for mutant alleles). Knowledge of the genotypic status is the breeder?s most powerful tool for elimination of a genetic disease.

Breeding of genetically clear individuals will produce offspring that are all genetically and phenotypically normal. Breedings of a clear with a carrier will produce all phenotypically normal offspring but 50% of the offspring are expected to be genotypic carriers. In the rare incidence where desirable traits of an affected individual outweigh the undesirable genetic trait, an affected individual may be bred to a clear and the offspring will be all phenotypically normal but genotypic carriers and these offspring should later be bred only with clear individuals. With careful breeding decision strategies, a number of excellent traits can be retained without offspring physically showing the genetic disease. DNA testing by linkage is not as accurate as that for identification of a specific gene mutation but it is still more desirable than existing tests based on phenotypic evaluations.

The financial advantages of DNA testing and associated DNA profiling are clear. The test is accurate, can be done at an early age, only one test is required and progeny can be cleared by parentage if DNA profiles are available for determination of parentage.

Copper Toxicosis A genetic disorder that affects several breeds and causes copper accumulation in the body which leads to liver disease. It is estimated that 25% of Bedlington Terriers are affected by the disease and 50% are carriers at this time.

von Willebrand's Disease An inherited disease that leaves dogs susceptible to abnormal bleeding following injuries or surgical procedures.

Phosphofructokinase Deficiency A genetic deficiency which causes mild to moderate anemia with severe episodes of bleeding.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy An inherited degenerative eye disorder that leads to blindness.

Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency This is an enzyme that is normally found in red blood cells. When the levels of this enzyme are deficient, the blood cells break down prematurely. This causes the dog to become anemic, exhibit a lack of energy, and low exercise tolerance.

Cystinuria An inherited disorder which is characterized by stone formation in the urinary tract.

Congenital Stationary Night Blindness Also known as hereditary retinal dystrophy. A poorly understood condition in which nonprogressive night blindness is apparent by 5 to 6 weeks of age. There is currently no treatment.

CLAD (Canine Leukocyte Adhesion Deficiency)