One of the first things we want to do as breeders is complete DNA testing. It’s one of the cheapest health tests to mark off our list and it can give us a good idea of what the dog brings into our program at a young age. With soooo many different laboratories out there though, this choice can quickly become overwhelming! So I’m going to do a quick run down of some of the differences between companies so that you can narrow down your options to what suits you best. Keep in mind...there's not a one all be all lab. Every lab brings something different to the table and it will depend on what you're testing and what you're testing for which company is best suited to you.
The first thing you need to know is not all labs are created equal. There's two types you can choose from: diagnostic or screening.
A diagnostic lab usually offers individual tests and will sometimes group those into breed specific panels (usually includes some type of discount). They will test the specific gene and in some cases like Paw Print, will test in at least two independent methods to ensure results are accurate. That’s why they cost more! These test are more in depth and more accurate.
A screening lab on the other hand screens the DNA looking for anything concerning. This kind of testing usually involves a full (not breed specific) health and trait panel. They normally use linkage testing to point out there could be an issue. That's why they’re so cheap! They aren't testing each gene independently or in great depth. While some genes they test for are exact, the ones they use linkage testing for are not.
Well why would you want to use a screening company then? These tests come in handy especially with mixed breeds. Ordering diagnostics on two (or more) breed panels plus coat traits could easily set you back quite a bit. You can use a screening company to look for anything concerning first. If by chance you receive a result that says your dog is a carrier of something, you can then test that specific gene with a diagnostic company to verify the result. So basically you're seeing if the DNA is "clean” or if there is something that needs to be tested further. It helps you narrow down what diagnostics are needed.
These tests are also more affordable to use on dogs that you know are clear by parentage but you want DNA ran on them specifically.
There will be inaccuracies and mistakes with any lab, but you are taking a bigger gamble on that happening with a screening test. Especially if that company uses linkage testing more than anything.
So let's take a look at four of the more known labs and what they bring to the table:
Diagnostic Labs-
Paw Print Genetics: This is one of the most accurate labs out there! Plus they give merle insertion length reports (for those of you breeding merle).
Highlights:
They test with at least TWO independent methods for each test. Each test much confirm the other, so you are assured your results are as accurate as can be.
They have GREAT customer service and keep you updated as your sample moves through the lab. It's easy to order, test, and review results.
Draw backs:
It can take around 2 weeks once they receive your sample. If you're in a hurry it might not be the route to go.
They are also one of the most expensive labs out there...but they usually always run sales. Try: SAVVY2021 for a discount!
Animal Genetics: Animal Genetics is also a great diagnostic lab to use.
Highlights:
Very quick and accurate. Though they do not test to the level of Paw Print they do get you your results back in as little as 48 hours from when they receive them.
GREAT customer service. They are very easy to communicate with.
They are not as pricey as Paw Print but they rarely if ever have sales. They do offer bulk discounts though.
Draw backs:
It's not as easy as just ordering a kit like other labs. Their order process and overall website are not nearly as user friendly.
Screening Labs-
Canine Health Check: This company is owned by Paw Print but many think that this panel is the same quality as a test from Paw Print and that's just not the case. This is still a screening. They do not run diagnostics and they do not run an independent verification test. This is the same quality as other screening companies. If you read the fine print at the bottom...it explains this.
Highlights:
This is the only screening panel (to my knowledge) to provide merle insertion lengths.
If you receive a carrier status you can easily transfer the DNA to Paw Print for further diagnostic to confirm without re-swabbing (provided there was enough DNA in the original sample).
Results are back within a couple weeks.
Embark: Embark is becoming one of the most popular companies being used. Honestly, it's not because they're the best, that's for sure. It's still a good screening test but I'm afraid many breeders get wrapped up in the "breed testing" not knowing that test is nothing more than an educated guess. There's a reason diagnostic companies do not offer this....it cannot be confirmed. But that could be a whole different blog post in and of itself!
Highlights:
Easy to order, swab, review, and share the results.
The breeder kit includes COI which can come in handy when making breeding decisions.
They often run sales and offer a breeder referral program.
Draw backs:
Customer service leaves something to be desired.
At times it can take 6+ weeks to get results.
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I'm often asked which lab I use personally and I can honestly say I use most all of them. It all depends on what breed I'm testing, if their parents had been tested, if I only need to know something specific, or if I'm in a hurry or not.
Do your research and do what's best for you and your program!
Excellent information about health testing laboratories!
Thank you…
I just received my Shihpoo testing back and yes it was a month waiting! I will try a different lab next time!