Litter from a DM Carrier Question - Page 1

If purchasing a puppy from a litter in which one of the parents is a DM carrier, is it possible snd reasonable to have the puppy tested for DM before final purchase to ensure the selected puppy is not a carrier?

Asking for someone that found a litter of puppies in which one of the parents is listed as a carrier and is otherwise interested in the puppies. Wants to know before contacting the breeder.

 

Why are they concerned with a pup that is a carrier? A carrier is not at risk for DM and can be bred to a clear.

Anticipated retirement from dog-related profession soon and wants to breed and contribute to eradication of the disease by producing only N/N puppies.

Well if they are really determined to do that, why not look for two parents both Clear ?

Unfortunately the jury is still out on whether there are some DM cases from supposedly clear stock anyway, there possibly being more than one type of 'DM' involved, so maybe could do everything right yet still get unlucky ...

Yes I would say it is reasonable if one is looking to ensure N/N.

But-that person should be prepared to pay for the test.

Mike

it can't hurt to ask the breeder if they are willing. probably best to test 2 or more pups though so maybe get a choice.

what other traits/goals does your friend have? show, sport, serious work?

honestly, if it was just for me, in this case, and the pup met all or most of my other goals/qualifications, I wouldn't hesitate to get a pup that might have a 50% chance of being a carrier and no chance of developing/ producing dogs with DM if bred clear.

that's of course assuming the science is 100% correct, which I'm a little skeptical of.

The person is willing to pay for the test(s).

Besides improvement of the breed/eliminating DM gene, the goals are producing dogs for SAR and PTSD service, with unsuitable puppies/wash-outs being trained for other service jobs, therapy work, etc., and those incapable of doing work, obedience and manners and given to someone that needs ESA.

Not interested in selling. Wants to breed, train, and donate trained dogs to matched handlers. Already set up with organizations.

Laudable aims ! Wishing them luck.

I will wish them luck also. If this is a good litter for service, and they are worrying about getting a pup that will never have DM or produce it if bred clear (again according to the science) then you should suggest that they focus on the first goal of service and not get hung up on the details on down the line.

first breeding, they can test all pups, keep the clear females and they are off to the races.

jmo,
Rik

Thank you, everyone, for your comments and kind words.

I've suggested the person register here, as well. I'm "sure" lots of questions will come up as time passes.