Golden Retriever

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (rcd4-PRA)

Progressive retinal atrophy rod-cone degeneration 4 (rcd4-PRA) is a heritable condition characterized by late-onset degeneration of photoreceptor cells in the retina, leading to loss of vision and blindness.

Congenital Ichthyosis 1 and 2 in Golden Retrievers

Congenital ichthyosis is a skin condition in which the outer layer of the skin does not form properly and results in scaling. The condition often progresses to large patches of thickened, black, scaly skin. Two genetic variants have been associated with congenital ichthyosis in the Golden Retriever.

Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis (NCL) in Golden Retrievers

Neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis results from the accumulation of granules in the neurons of the brain and spinal cord. This progressive neurological disorder manifests as behavioral changes coupled with a loss of coordination and blindness.

Sensory Ataxic Neuropathy (SAN) in Golden Retrievers

Sensory ataxic neuropathy is a progressive neurological disorder characterized by involuntary muscle movements and abnormal posture resulting from degeneration of the nerves controlling muscle movement. It affects both sexes but is only inherited maternally.

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.

Canine Genetic Diversity

The Veterinary Genetics Laboratory (VGL), in collaboration with Dr. Niels C. Pedersen and staff, has developed a panel of short tandem repeat (STR) markers that will determine genetic diversity across the genome and in the Dog Leukocyte Antigen (DLA) class I and II regions. This test panel is useful to breeders who wish to track and increase genetic diversity of their breed as a long term goal. Please note, this test will not identify breed.