In the field, hounds stride with purpose, noses to the ground or eyes fixed ahead. They were born to chase swift-moving prey or follow a scent, to pursue, to track – and at Orivet, Powered by Paw Print Genetics, we like to think we’re a bit like them. Always on the trail of the next genetic breakthrough, tirelessly working behind the scenes to deliver more accurate, breed-specific insights to breeders, veterinarians, and pet owners.
From sleek Pharaoh Hounds to soulful-eyed Basset Hounds, the diversity of the Hound Group is reflected in their genetics. But decoding that diversity requires more than just curiosity – it demands cutting-edge science, collaboration with global researchers, and a methodical approach to validation. Simply put, staying ahead in canine genetics takes more than sniffing out a new test. It’s about ensuring the test is reliable, relevant, and accessible, without adding cost burdens to those who need it most.
Let’s dive into what really happens behind the lab doors – and why adding a new genetic test isn’t as simple as pressing “upload.”
Each new genetic test starts with a scientific discovery. This usually comes in the form of a peer-reviewed research paper identifying a genetic mutation associated with a disease, trait, or coat type. But not every paper becomes a test, and not every mutation is worth chasing.
When we first catch wind of a promising test – whether through journals, conferences, or collaborations with university researchers—our scientific team doesn’t rush to launch. Instead, we ask:
This phase is about more than just excitement. It’s about verification. It’s the equivalent of our own hounds pausing mid-trail to double-check the scent. Our role at Orivet, Powered by Paw Print Genetics (and a huge shout out to Dr. Blake Ballif), is to validate that this mutation is indeed causative – or at least clinically relevant – and that it applies to the breeds our clients test.
Once a mutation is deemed valid and relevant, we run it as a standalone test. Think of it as a soft launch. This allows us to track how it performs across breeds, to establish internal controls, and to check the test’s reproducibility across different samples and DNA extractions.
You’d be surprised how often a mutation that looked promising on paper doesn’t hold up under wider scrutiny. That’s why every test undergoes this field phase before we even consider wider rollout.
Most labs – including Orivet, Powered by Paw Print Genetics – run these as PCR-based or sequencing-based standalone tests initially. This is where we fine-tune the performance: Are there false positives? Can the mutation be misread due to a nearby polymorphism? How robust is the amplification across different DNA qualities?
This step is non-negotiable. As anyone who’s ever dealt with a problematic test result knows, accuracy matters – and getting it wrong can erode trust quickly.
Once we’re confident a test is robust, the next question is: Can we multiplex it? In other words, can we combine this test with dozens – or even hundreds – of others into a single testing panel? Multiplexing is what allows labs like Orivet, Powered by Paw Print Genetics, to offer comprehensive screening without charging clients hundreds of dollars per mutation.
We review the chemistry platform compatibility (whether it works on our array, sequencing, or PCR multiplex systems), the amplicon size (to avoid interference), and the frequency of use (is this something many breeds will want?). If it fits the model, we move it into our biannual panel update – usually done every six months.
Why six months? Because building a new panel takes time. Our test arrays are like carefully choreographed dances – each test has to align, not clash. This semi-annual cadence also ensures we’re not constantly disrupting workflows or introducing variability.
And just like Charlie the Boston and Mary the Griffon – who both enjoy their routines but also live for new adventures – we aim to strike the perfect balance between consistency and innovation.
Behind every test we offer is a library of controls – DNA samples with known genotypes. These act as the anchors of our testing platform. Before we release any test, it must perform consistently on these controls across multiple runs and platforms. This is the only way we can ensure high concordance – the reliability that a test will give the same result every time, no matter the batch or technician.
Mary, my little Griffon, once had a sample come back inconclusive due to low DNA concentration. But thanks to our internal QC steps, we caught it before results went out. That’s the power of quality systems – something most clients never see, but benefit from daily.
The scenthounds may follow their noses, but we follow data trails – repeatability, sensitivity, specificity, and platform robustness. It’s less glamorous than a Bloodhound at full throttle, but no less thrilling for us in the lab.
Hounds are one of the most genetically distinct Groups in the canine world. From sighthounds with high-speed metabolisms and unique myostatin mutations to scenthounds with olfactory receptor variations, this Group is rich with breed-specific quirks—and potential
health challenges.
That’s why we work closely with hound breed clubs to ensure our panels are aligned with their needs. For instance, our tests for Primary Open Angle Glaucoma (POAG) ADAMTS17 in Beagles, Fanconi Syndrome in Basenjis, and Factor VII Deficiency in various scenthounds were all developed in close consultation with breeders and associations. When a new form of PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy) was found in a lesser-known hound breed, we didn’t just wait – we fast-tracked a validation pipeline because the breed’s gene pool was small, and breeders needed answers now.
And as genetic stories evolve, so do our test offerings. If you’ve made it (read) this far, here’s a reward! Email me at: george@orivet.com with your contact details and the subject line: “I Love SHOWSIGHT and Orivet,” and I’ll send you a complimentary Full Breed Profile (valued at $139) to screen your favourite dog – on the house!
At Orivet, Powered by Paw Print Genetics, genetics isn’t static. It’s dynamic, evolving with every publication, every sample, every conversation. We don’t chase novelty for novelty’s sake – we chase relevance and rigor. Our commitment is to be the reliable partner in your breeding program, your veterinary clinic, or your club’s health committee.
Just as Charlie watches every move I make, and Mary senses when something’s new in the house, we’re always watching the genetic landscape – alert, engaged, and ready to act.
To our fellow scenthounds in science and show: The trail ahead is long, but we’re on it, nose to the ground, eyes forward. And with every new test added and every mutation validated, we move closer to a world where dogs live longer, healthier, and better understood lives.
For more on Orivet’s Powered by Paw Print Genetics breed-specific panels and how we tailor testing for the Hound Group, visit: www.orivet.com.
