UK Kennel Club DNA testing for CHD - Page 1

Hi Just wondering if anyone else has received a package containing a sampling kit for DNA testing for CHD? If so, does anyone else have an opinion on it? The package contains 3 swabs and notes relating to the need to identify the genes responsible for CHD. There appears to have been random selection and the notes explain the need to sample dogs of all ages and hip-scores (the bitch we have been asked to test has a hip-score of 8). The scheme is endorsed by the Kennel Club. Whilst I agree that any sort of research into genetic faults is essential for the improvement of our breed, and I wholly support any such research, I have to add that if the Kennel Club imposed a ban on registration of litters where the parents had higher than average hip-scores then the UK would stand a better chance of reducing CHD. As has been suggested before on this message-board, the very least the Kennel Club should do is to insist on both parents being hip-scored before registration of any litter. I would also like to see the Sire and Dam's name appear in the Breed Record Supplement against the names of the dogs which have been hip-scored in that quarter. Any thoughts anyone?

Yes, these kits have appeared on a few doorsteps!! As you say, research should be supported, but like yourself, I feel the Kennel Club should take a good look at what they are registering, not the value of the cheque they bank, for as the 'Governing Body' of dogdom in the UK, they should be working for the betterment of all breeds, and not just taking as much money as possible.

As of March 1,2006 all dogs that come into the States and are not registered with AKC will have to be DNA tested with AKC before being bred.