Sun & Sand Goldens - DNA & Health Testing

Golden Retrievers: Sunshine & Strength - Building Healthy Futures Through DNA Testing

At Sun & Sand Goldens, we believe a Golden Retriever's happiness starts with exceptional health. That’s why we utilize the industry-leading Embark® DNA test to ensure not only optimal breeding practices but also the well-being of every puppy we raise.

Unlocking the Golden Retriever's DNA Code

Embark's DNA test goes beyond the typical. It analyzes over 250 genetic health conditionsspecifically relevant to Golden Retrievers. This advanced screening identifies potential issues like:

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
Ichthyosis
Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis (NCL)
Degenerative Myelopathy (DM)
Muscular Dystrophy (MD)

It’s like having a blueprint of a dog’s genetic makeup, allowing us to proactively address potential health concerns.

The painless cheek swab process is simple, but the science behind it is powerful. Embark analyzes over 200,000 genetic markers, providing an in-depth picture of a dog’s ancestry and potential health risks. This knowledge empowers us, future owners, and responsible breeders to make informed decisions for the benefit of this beloved breed.

Understanding Genes: Building a Strong Foundation

Just like humans, Golden Retrievers inherit genes in pairs, one from each parent. These combinations determine their genetic makeup. Here’s a breakdown:

Clear: Free of a specific genetic disorder.
Carrier: Has one normal gene and one with a disorder, but shows no symptoms.
Affected: Has both genes with a disorder and may exhibit symptoms.

Carriers can pass on the disorder without being affected themselves. Affected dogs, however, shouldn’t be bred to minimize the risk of transmitting these issues to future generations. This is where responsible breeding practices and thorough genetic testing become crucial.

Golden Retrievers: Predispositions and Prevention

Certain genetic disorders are more common in Golden Retrievers. Here’s what we screen for and why:

Ichthyosis: Two types can cause skin problems, leading to dryness, scaling, and discomfort.
Progressive Rod-Cone Degeneration (prcd): A form of Progressive Retinal Atrophy that can lead to vision loss and blindness.
Degenerative Myelopathy (DM): A progressive disease affecting the spinal cord, leading to mobility issues and paralysis.
Muscular Dystrophy (MD): A condition that weakens muscles, impacting mobility and overall quality of life.
Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis (NCL): A severe neurological disorder that often necessitates early euthanasia due to its devastating effects.

By identifying these conditions early, we can make informed breeding decisions, ensuring healthier puppies and reducing the risk of passing on these disorders.

Why DNA Testing Matters

We’re committed to raising Golden Retrievers who are not only beautiful and loving but also healthy and resilient. DNA testing is a cornerstone of our breeding program, allowing us to:

Prevent Genetic Disorders: By screening breeding pairs, we minimize the risk of passing on hereditary conditions.
Promote Longevity: Healthier genetics mean longer, happier lives for our dogs.
Empower Owners: Providing future families with detailed health information gives them peace of mind and helps them prepare for their puppy’s needs.

A Commitment to Excellence

Our dedication to DNA testing reflects our broader commitment to ethical breeding practices and the well-being of every Golden Retriever we raise. By combining cutting-edge science with a deep love for the breed, we’re building a brighter future for Golden Retrievers one healthy, happy puppy at a time.

Understanding Genetics: Building Healthy Generations of Golden Retrievers

The foundation of a happy, healthy Golden Retriever begins with responsible breeding practices and a deep understanding of genetics. By utilizing advanced genetic testing, we ensure that every puppy we raise has the best possible start in life.

Planning for a Healthy Future

Before breeding any Golden Retriever, we conduct thorough genetic testing to understand their potential health risks. This allows us to make informed decisions about breeding pairs, ensuring the well-being of future generations.

Decoding the Genetics Chart

The table below shows the possible genetic outcomes in puppies based on their parents' genetic status for a specific disease:

Parent 1 x Parent 2

Possible Outcomes (Percentages)

Clear x Clear

100% Clear Pups

Clear x Carrier

50% Clear, 50% Carriers

Clear x Affected

100% Carriers

Carrier x Carrier

25% Clear, 50% Carriers, 25% Affected

Carrier x Affected

50% Carriers, 50% Affected

Affected x Affected

100% Affected

Responsible Breeding Practices at Sun & Sand Goldens

We prioritize ethical breeding practices. We strategically breed clear dogs and carriers to minimize the risk of affected puppies. This ensures that all our puppies are either:

100% Genetically Clear: Free of the tested genetic condition.
Carriers: While they may carry the gene, they are unlikely to show symptoms and can live healthy lives.

By carefully selecting breeding pairs, we reduce the likelihood of passing on hereditary conditions, ensuring that our puppies are healthy and thriving.