Australian Shepherd, Miniature

Multidrug Sensitivity (MDR1)

Multidrug Sensitivity is caused by a deletion in the ABCB1 gene, also known as the multidrug resistance 1 (MDR1) gene, and is characterized by neurotoxicity following the use of certain common drugs. Dogs with two copies of MDR1 will exhibit multidrug sensitivity. Some dogs with 1 copy of MDR1 may also exhibit multidrug sensitivity.

Intensity Dilution

The intensity coat color gene variant causes an extreme dilution of phaeomelanin (red or yellow pigment), resulting in a cream to white coat in dogs.

Parentage/Genetic Marker Report

This DNA-based parentage test uses microsatellite marker analysis to compare the DNA profile of an offspring to the profiles of possible parents.

Furnishings and Improper Coat

A dominant variant of the R-spondin-2 gene produces the longer mustache and eyebrows seen in wire-haired dogs and other breeds.

Curl (C1, C2)

Two variants in the Keratin-71 gene are associated with curly hair in dogs. Dogs with these curl variants have curly coats or wavy coats depending on how many copies of the allele they possess.

Coat Length

Five recessive variants in the fibroblast growth factor-5 (FGF5) gene are associated with long hair phenotypes in dogs.

Piebald/White Spotting (S Locus)

White spotting patterns that occur in many dog breeds do not have a uniform genetic basis, and the genetics are complex. In piebald/parti/random white spotting, the extent of white pattern expression varies, and markings are often asymmetrical.

Merle

Merle is an incompletely dominant coat color pattern characterized by irregularly shaped patches of diluted pigment and solid color.