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Do you need sampling material?

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Why DNA testing?

It enables:

  • Breeding of healthy animals
  • Breeding of animals with desired coat colour or type
  • Animal identification
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What we offer?

  • Performance of genetic tests according to the highest laboratory standards
  • Genetic counselling by veterinarians and PhD geneticists
  • Responsive and professional customer support
  • Breed specific panels
  • Discount schemes
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Simple and fast genetic testing

Determine hereditary predisposition for the development of specific diseases, characteristics and responses to therapy.

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Sample
For a genetic test we need cheek swabs or blood samples.
Analysis
Most genetic tests are completed within three to five working days.
Results
You will be informed about the results by e-mail, we will send you full reports by post.
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The journey of my dog’s sample in the genetic lab
13.11.2020
Step one: DNA isolation   All living creatures have genetic material in their cells that determines their characteristics and distinguishes them from each other. In animals, the carrier of genetic information is DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid). DNA molecule consists of a sequence of several billions of subunits called nucleotides, which, similar to the sequence of letters in books, gives instructions for the functioning of the organism. The amount of data in DNA within the subject is enormous and it cannot be routinely screened entirely. Therefore we use DNA tests to analyse DNA segments of interest.   An essential step in DNA testing is DNA isolation. It is the technique used to extract DNA molecule from a biological sample. The quantity, quality and integrity of DNA depend on the quality of the biological sample. It is crucial that the sample is as fresh as possible and contains a sufficient amount of biological material. Sample quality assessment is performed upon the admission to the laboratory and before DNA isolation. In our laboratory, DNA is mostly extracted from blood and buccal swab of an animal. A few drops of blood or a swab of the oral mucosa without visible mould and/or food debris are usually enough to successfully isolate DNA.     In animal cells, DNA molecule is organized in chromosomes within the cell nucleus. DNA isolation therefore involves physical and chemical approaches that allow DNA to be released from the cells and to be separated from other cellular components. DNA isolation process takes about two hours, can be manual or automated, and consists of three basic steps: lysis, precipitation, and purification. Lysis involves the mechanical disruption of cells and the enzymatic dissolution of cellular proteins. In the precipitation process, the alcohol is added to separate the released DNA from the cellular debris. In the last step, the released DNA is purified by washing away cell debris and reagents and stored at -20°C. Properly isolated and stored DNA can be used for genetic testing for many years.   A good quality DNA is crucial for successful performance of a genetic test. To be able to isolate good quality DNA in the laboratory, we need appropriate biological sample, therefore it is important to strictly follow the sample collection instructions available here. If DNA of sufficient quality cannot be isolated from the sample, a new sample is required to perform the genetic test.
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DNA profile: molecular fingerprint of my dog
28.10.2020
DNA profile is a unique molecular fingerprint that does not change over a lifetime and allows unambiguous identification of an animal regardless of its age. DNA profile comprises of the analysis of specific areas on the DNA (markers) that are characterized by changes in length. Due to differences in length, different states or alleles appear in each individual. By analysing enough markers, we get a DNA profile that is specific to each dog.     The DNA profile can be used in different cases:   1. Parentage determination: Parentage analysis is performed by comparing the DNA profiles of the female, potential male, and puppy. Parentage verification is done by statistical analysis of DNA profiles. Due to the nature of the method, it is necessary to analyse the DNA profiles of both parents and the puppy for a reliable analysis of parentage. If a sample of only one of the parents is available, this parent can be excluded as a parent but cannot be confirmed.   2. Loss or theft of a dog: If you know your dog’s DNA profile you can prove his identity in case of theft or loss.   3. Lifelong identification: If the microchip stops working and can no longer be detected, you can use DNA profile to prove the identity of the animal.   4. Confirmation that the animal is free from certain genetic diseases (free by parentage): Genetic diseases are characteristic for certain breeds. If both parents are tested for a particular disease and are negative, we can use DNA profile to prove that all puppies are free of the disease. If all puppies in a litter are clamed to be disease-free by parents this should be verified by a DNA profile.   5. Insemination: DNA profile is used for dog identification in the case of semen storage and insemination. With the help of a DNA profile semen is identified and paternity can be confirmed.   Depending on the choice of markers there are several approaches to DNA profiling. The most common approach is with markers recommended by ISAG (International Society of Animal Genetics). Most laboratories around the world make DNA profiles according to ISAG recommendations. Standardization of DNA profiles is an advantage from the breeder's point of view, as the DNA profiles of two dogs, which were made in different laboratories by the same method, are completely comparable. If two dogs have DNA profiles made by different methods, it is necessary to repeat the analysis in one dog to be able to compare them.   The DNA profile is a modern molecular tool with the help of which we can objectively solve many dilemmas regarding the identification of animals.
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