For Breeders

The “A locus” is the name for the DNA sequence that makes up the agouti-signaling protein (ASIP) gene, which is located on chromosome 24 in the dog genome. This gene contains instructions to make a protein (ASIP) that acts as a molecular switch: when ASIP is present, it tells hair cells to produce the red/yellow...

You’ve tested and verified your dog’s genetic health with Embark for Breeders’ DNA testing: now set them apart with new “Tested by Embark” logos. Health testing for genetic risk factors and managing diversity are two of the many important steps breeders take to manage and improve the overall health and vitality of their breeding programs....

At Embark, we strive to provide the most comprehensive testing service available, continually conducting research and collaborating with leaders in the field to add new health conditions and traits tests to our Embark for Breeders suite of products. This process  includes adding new probes to the research-grade microarray we use to test each dog’s DNA...

A webinar presented by The Westminster Kennel Club and Embark Vet. Embark Veterinary and the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show are pleased to present an informative panel discussion featuring three experts in purebred dog breeding, showing, and canine genetics. Watch this live video event to hear practical guidance and expert perspective relevant to all dog...

Understanding genetic health risks, physical traits, and genetic coefficient of inbreeding for Pembroke Welsh Corgis Genetic health tests offered by Embark for Pembroke Welsh Corgis: Degenerative Myelopathy, DM (SOD1A) Exercise-Induced Collapse (DNM1) Progressive Retinal Atrophy, rcd3 (PDE6A) Von Willebrand Disease Type I (VWF) X-linked Severe Combined Immunodeficiency (IL2RG Variant 2) Chondrodystrophy and Intervertebral Disc Disease,...

Learn how Embark is helping Bearded Collie breeders better understand genetic health, coat color traits, and inbreeding. What does Embark test for in Bearded Collie? Genetic health tests offered by Embark for Bearded Collies: Collie Eye Anomaly, Choroidal Hypoplasia, CEA (NHEJ1) Degenerative Myelopathy, DM (SOD1A) Learn more about these health conditions on our health page....

More and more registries and breed organizations require it with your dog’s DNA results submission: Veterinary verification of identity. Of course, Embark’s DNA Test already includes multiple verification checks: We confirm that the genetic sex matches the owner-reported sex for a dog. We conduct a review of genetic breed ancestry. If needed, we even compare...

Purebred dog owners often ask, why should I Embark-test a dog I’m not planning to breed? The answers may surprise you. Not only can an Embark test provide you with important genetic health information that could help prevent emergencies, manage disease, and save you money on long-term veterinary bills; but your dog could hold the...

Learn how to predict potential litter genetic health risks and coat color genotypes with Dr. Adam Boyko. How can I use Punnett squares to predict litter outcomes? Knowing the genotypes of two dogs that might be bred can provide you with a wealth of information.  In this video, Embark’s Chief Science Officer explains how to...

Responsible breeders know the value of genetic COI (coefficient of inbreeding) in making breeding decisions: Not only is it correlated to overall canine health and lifespan, but it can also be extremely useful in assessing potential breeding mates for your dog. In fact, it’s one of the reasons many breeders choose Embark for their DNA...

Wobbler Syndrome in dogs—also known as cervical spondylomyelopathy (CSM)—is a common disease of the cervical spine in large and giant breed dogs. Presently, the genetic basis for Wobbler Syndrome is unknown.  Although the condition mostly affects Doberman Pinschers (~5%) and Great Danes (~4%), it can also occur in Mastiffs, Bernese Mountain Dogs, Borzoi, and Poodles,...

Learn how to factor genetic health results into breeding decisions in this introductory video with Dr. Adam Boyko. How should I factor my dog’s health results into my breeding decisions? Many breeders receive their dog’s Embark results and discover that their dog is a carrier or at-risk for a genetic health condition. This prompts a...