Coat Length Test
for Other Canine Breeds

DDC Veterinary is now offering a new DNA test developed at Michigan State University by Dr. Donna Housley and Dr. Patrick Venta with the cooperation of several breeders who donated research samples.

Long-haired coat length is inherited as an autosomal recessive trait. Therefore, dogs that are carriers of the long-hair mutation will appear to be normal (short hair) themselves, but will likely pass on the long-hair mutation 50% of the time. Breeds we are currently able to test include:

• Alaskan Malamutes
• Bullmastiff
• Chihuahuas
• Cardigan Welsh Corgis
• Dachshunds
• Dalmatians
• German Shepherd Dogs
• Labrador Retrievers
• Mastiffs
• Norfolk Terrier
• Norwich Terriers
• Rottweilers
• Schipperke
• Shiba Inus
• Weimaraners

The purpose of this new test is to accurately identify coat-length genotypes. Breeders can use DNA testing as a tool to more effectively manage mating patterns and make better selection decisions.

There are 3 possible genotypes for coat length:

1) N/N Clear (those having 2 copies of the normal short-hair allele [N] and appear to be short-haired)

2) N/F Carrier (those having 1 copy of the normal short-hair allele [N] and 1 copy of the long-hair mutation [F] and appear to be short-haired)

3) F/F Affected (those having 2 copies of the long-hair mutation [F] and appear to be long-haired)

Some highlights regarding this new test:

• 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.

• A detailed DNA report will be mailed within 10 business days of receipt of the samples.  Results can also be emailed to avoid any potential delays with regular mail service.

• Samples can be mailed to:DDC Veterinary,  One DDC Way, Fairfield, Ohio 45014

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).