“Hold still, please!” How many times have you said these three words while trying to collect a sample to send out for DNA testing? And here I am wrestling with Charlie the Boston Terrier as he wiggles energetically. I have sat with a clipboard in hand, observing this comical scene numerous times, especially when trying to swab a litter of pups.
“You know, Mary,” George muses, “we’re lucky Charlie isn’t a 150-pound Saint Bernard or a spirited Siberian Husky (members of the American Kennel Club’s (AKC’s) robust Working Group). DNA collection can certainly be a challenge!”
Mary laughs, finally getting Charlie to relax enough to allow a successful sample collection. “It’s one thing with a small breed like Charlie, but handling a Great Dane or a powerful Rottweiler would be quite an adventure!” (Actually, if you thought swabbing a dog can be challenging, try a cat!)
The AKC’s Working Group is renowned for its impressive breeds—dogs bred for jobs such as guarding, rescuing, and sled pulling. They’re intelligent, courageous, and incredibly capable, but with their diverse range of genetic conditions, DNA testing plays a crucial role in responsible breeding.
We’ve collected the sample and as Charlie pants, looking relieved that his sampling ordeal is over, he appears to wonder, “What happens after Mary finishes swabbing my cheek?”
George smiles, leaning in to explain. “Once Mary collects your DNA using a sterile swab (bristle brush, cotton flock swab, swab in specific buffer), the sample must be carefully handled. First, we check if the swab is clean and dry. Samples arriving wet, dirty, or improperly stored can affect the quality of results. Clear instructions must always be followed: no treats, water, or food before the test—though convincing a hungry Boxer or Newfoundland can be challenging!”
If an owner struggles to keep their lively dog still, a veterinarian might be necessary. Veterinary technicians are skilled at reassuring dogs during collection, ensuring that enough DNA-rich cells are captured on the swab. A blood sample collected in ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) usually guarantees a successful sample—no re-collections or sample fails from blood!
Mary nods, carefully packaging Charlie’s sample into a secure mailer. And off it goes by courier!
The next step takes place at Orivet Genetic Pet Care’s accessioning department, where specialists meticulously inspect each incoming package. George, adjusting his imaginary glasses dramatically, explains, “Accessioning staff quickly glance at every swab. Is it labeled clearly? Is the swab sufficiently covered with cells? Does the sample appear contaminated? A clean, dry swab is crucial to accuracy.”
Charlie tilts his head. “What happens if the swab isn’t right, George?”
“Then we send an email to the owner and advise them of the issue and request a re-collection,” George answers. “But ideally, everything checks out, and your precious DNA moves swiftly into the next critical phase: extraction!”
In the lab, technicians in white coats and gloves take over. Extraction is both science and art, requiring precision and care.
“Imagine trying to pull a single strand of hair from an Alaskan Malamute without disturbing the rest,” George suggests playfully. “Technicians gently ‘interrogate’ the swab to release DNA from the cells.”
Charlie imagines a serious interrogation room scene, making Mary chuckle. “Not that kind of interrogation!”
George continues, “Technicians evaluate if they obtained enough DNA (quantity) and if it’s intact and suitable (quality) for analysis. Just like training a Doberman, precision and consistency are key.”
Once extracted, DNA enters the realm of automation and precise machinery—Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) machines that amplify specific genetic markers millions of times. George explains, “Automation is the Labrador Retriever of the lab—reliable, consistent, and hard-working. These machines precisely amplify your DNA sample to detectable levels.”
“And it’s not just about automation,” Mary adds. “Every test run includes rigorous controls—positive and negative—to ensure accuracy. It’s similar to training Working breeds; consistency is critical to success.”
Technicians review results meticulously. Breeds such as Dobermans require vigilance for conditions like Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM), Boxers for arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC), or Rottweilers for juvenile laryngeal paralysis and polyneuropathy (JLPP). DNA testing helps breeders minimize these inherited conditions, enhancing breed health.
“So, the work ends here, right George?” Charlie asks hopefully.
George smiles knowingly. “Not quite! Extracting and analyzing DNA is half the story. The laboratory must present the results in a clear, understandable format. Owners, breeders, and veterinarians rely on actionable insights. Orivet, powered by Paw Print Genetics, sets the ‘lab standard’ by constantly refining how results are reported—making complex genetic information easy to grasp.”
Mary nods in agreement. “The real magic lies in what we do with the data. Breeders can make informed decisions about matings, veterinarians can tailor healthcare, and pet owners can better understand their dog’s health needs.”
“At Orivet,” George proudly concludes, “the work is never truly done. Just as the breeds of the Working Group tirelessly perform their duties, we continuously strive to elevate standards and accuracy, ensuring our DNA tests remain reliable, relevant, and cutting-edge.”
Charlie hops excitedly. “So, DNA testing isn’t just science—it’s a Working Breed itself!”
“Precisely, Charlie,” George laughs. “Behind every test lies dedication, meticulous detail, and rigorous standards—qualities every breeder in the Working Group understands well.”
As Charlie and Mary walk out, they reflect on the invisible yet invaluable efforts that underpin genetic testing. For every swab collected, countless unseen steps ensure the integrity of genetic information, providing breeders the tools to protect and strengthen the magnificent breeds of AKC’s Working Group.
