Greetings, my fellow fanciers of four legs and function! In this month’s article, I thought I would try and bring you all a hearty helping of science, sass, and canine class straight from my lab… and occasionally, my living room, where my Boston Terrier, Charlie, and my Brussels Griffon, Mary, conspire to keep me on my toes. They often accuse me of wavering off the genetic topic, but I try and explain to them “genetics can be boring” and I need to try and keep it exciting and, more importantly, what’s in this month’s SHOWSIGHT! With the 2024 AKC National Championship Presented by Royal Canin just completed, let’s unravel some genetic tales worth wagging about. After all, beneath every winning gait and gleaming coat lies a genetic blueprint as fascinating as it is vital.
The nation’s biggest dog show, with over 5,600 Conformation competitors, took place on December 14-15, 2024 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida. “Monty,” the five-year-old Giant Schnauzer, will go down in history as the 24th AKC National Championship Best in Show winner. Monty won the Working Group and bested the six other Group winners to become America’s National Champion on December 15th.
Charlie and Mary were absolutely thrilled to watch this year’s competition unfold on AKC.TV, cheering on the champions from the comfort of their favorite spots on the couch. The spectacle of teamwork, dedication, and excellence left even my mischievous duo inspired (though Mary insists her tail-wagging skills remain unmatched).
As we sat back and reflected on the AKC National Championship, it’s impossible not to marvel at the array of breeds and the careful curation behind every entry. Whether it’s a Bedlington Terrier with a genetically pristine liver or a Boston Terrier whose health screening echoes the adage “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” the best of the best don’t happen by chance. They’re the result of meticulous planning, testing, and an unwavering commitment to the betterment of the breed.
At the AKC National Championship, you would have seen breeders, handlers, and dogs that exemplify excellence—but don’t forget the unseen heroes behind the scenes: the geneticists and breeders who invest in science to ensure that excellence is more than skin deep. It’s a labor of love that spans generations, and the AKC National Championship is a living testament to what’s possible when passion meets purpose.
Let’s dive right into the Bedlington Terrier, a breed that embodies elegance and spunk. But did you know this pint-sized powerhouse is genetically predisposed to copper toxicosis, a condition caused by mutations in the COMMD1 gene? Often referred to as Wilson-Like Disease or Menkes Disease, this hereditary issue can lead to dangerous copper accumulation in the liver. Without genetic testing, early symptoms might go unnoticed until it’s too late.
For breeders, ensuring the long-term health of the Bedlington starts with screening breeding pairs for the COMMD1 mutation. Knowing a dog’s genetic status isn’t just a checkbox—it’s a commitment to the breed’s future. And speaking of paws-on-the-ground practicality, let’s not overlook Hereditary Footpad Hyperkeratosis, another potential hurdle for this charming breed. Testing for these genetic conditions ensures that our Bedlington’s legendary bounce stays bouncy… and not bogged down by health complications.
Now, let’s talk about Charlie, my Boston Terrier and self-appointed genetics assistant. Charlie’s antics remind me daily of why breeders do what they do. While Boston Terriers are prone to a laundry list of health concerns—think brachycephalic airway syndrome and patellar luxation—genetic testing offers a ray of hope.
Mary, my regal Brussels Griffon, likes to believe she’s above it all… until a squirrel appears. Griffons have their quirks, but it’s their genetic health that often keeps me up at night. Knowledge is power, and the more we understand our dogs’ DNA, the better we can preserve their charm and vitality for future generations.
Now, let’s pivot to the Afghan Hound, a breed that’s as iconic as it is elusive when it comes to genetic specificity. Despite their stunning exteriors and dazzling presence in the ring, Afghan Hounds lack any breed-specific genetic tests. That’s not to say testing isn’t vital—far from it! Panel tests covering broader markers can still reveal insights into overall health and breeding compatibility. It’s a reminder that while science continues to evolve, our role as stewards of the breed remains steadfast.
Talking about Afghans, the Hound Group and Reserve Best in Show winner at the 2024 AKC National Championship was Afghan Hound “Louis,” GCHP2 CH Sunlit’s King Of Queens. This stunning representative of the breed wowed the crowd with grace and precision, showcasing why the Afghan remains a timeless icon of elegance.
Think about it. Just as a handler fine-tunes a dog’s presentation for the ring, breeders are now fine-tuning their lines for health and longevity. DNA testing has become a vital tool for identifying hereditary diseases, improving coat color predictability, and ensuring the Breed Standard aligns with robust health. At the heart of this effort lies a simple truth: beauty may win the day, but health sustains the legacy.
Take, for instance, the Labrador Retriever, a crowd favorite in any ring. Genetic tests for copper toxicosis and exercise-induced collapse allow breeders to make informed pairings, ensuring that future generations shine both in the ring and in the lives of families. Similarly, breeds like the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel benefit from emerging markers for conditions like mitral valve disease—proof that science is always working to catch up with the needs of our dogs.
But let’s not stop at the practicalities. Let’s inject a bit of humor into the picture. Imagine me with a clipboard in hand, analyzing the pedigrees of every Best in Show winner. “Do you know this dog’s coefficient of inbreeding?” I might ask the judge, much to the handler’s dismay. My enthusiasm for genetics reminds us that behind every trophy is a story of selection, care, and yes, the occasional surprise.
And let’s not overlook the role of education. Dog shows offer a golden opportunity to talk about how genetic testing supports breed integrity. Booths showcasing tools like Orivet’s Full Breed Profiles can demystify the science and show breeders how to integrate it into their programs. A quick chat with Genetic George—or a passionate vendor—could inspire a breeder to test for markers they hadn’t considered before.
Ultimately, the AKC National Championship is not just a showcase of the best of today but a promise for tomorrow. Genetics ensures that the dogs we celebrate this year will continue to be vibrant, healthy ambassadors of their breeds in years to come.
So, as the applause dies down and the rings are packed away, let’s remember that what happens behind the scenes—be it in breeding decisions or through genetic testing—is just as deserving of celebration as the ribbons themselves. And who knows, maybe next year we’ll see Genetic George presenting his own Best in Science award. Now that’s a showstopper!
As I sign off, remember that genetics doesn’t have to be daunting. It’s a tool—a guide—and when wielded responsibly, it paves the way for healthier, happier dogs. Whether you’re championing the Bedlington, the Afghan, or the Boston, the principles remain the same: Test smart, breed responsibly, and never stop learning.
