DNA "Bully" Test for Whippets
DDC Veterinary is pleased to offer breeders a fast, affordable and reliable DNA test for identifying the varying genotypes for Myostatin Deficiency. Breeders can use DNA testing as a tool to better manage their matings and make more informed selection decisions for future generations.
Commonly referred to as the "Bully gene" among Whippet breeders, Myostatin Deficiency is inherited as an autosomal recessive trait characterized by a heavy muscling effect among canines with 2 copies of the mutation (B/B).
Those canines having 1 copy of the mutation (N/B) can appear to be normal phenotypically but on average possess a greater potential for racing. The N/B canines will also likely pass on the B mutation 50% of the time, therefore a N/B x N/B mating will likely result in producing "Bully" (B/B) pups in 25% of the offspring.
There are 3 possible genotypes reported for Myostatin Deficiency among Whippets:
- N/N (those having 2 copies of the normal allele [N] and appear to be normal).
- N/B (those having 1 copy of the normal allele [N] and 1 copy of the "bully" mutation [B] and appear to be normal).
- B/B (those having 2 copies of "bully" mutation [B] and appear to be more heavily muscled).
Highlights regarding this new test include:
- DNA samples can be collected easily at home using buccal (cheek) swabs provided as part of a free DNA sample collection kit.
- Dogs can be DNA tested at ANY age.
- The cost for testing is $58 (US) per canine with a $10 discount per test for 5 or more samples submitted at the same time. Payment can be submitted with the return samples.
- DNA results are mailed and emailed within 10 business days of receipt of the samples.
To order kits, call 1-800-625-0874, or use our online form.
You can also download our Inherited Traits Test Order Form, which you can print and mail or fax to our laboratory (513-881-4069).
For more information about how these test results can be used for registration, contact the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) or the Canine Health Information Center (CHIC).
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