Guide to Genetic Tests

How simple recessive genetics applies to Portuguese Water Dog gene test results

We all possess two copies of every gene for every trait, condition, disease—ever. Our dogs do too. So let’s make this about the dogs.

If a dog gene tests non-carrier, it has two non-carrier copies of the gene. This means this dog is unaffected by the specific disease or condition. It also means it will not produce affected puppies regardless of the carrier status of its mate.

If a dog gene tests carrier, it has one non-carrier and one carrier copy of the gene. This means this dog is also unaffected by the specific disease or condition. It also means, IF bred to a non-carrier mate, this dog will not produce affected puppies. Carriers should not be bred to other carriers or affected mates.

If a dog gene tests affected, it has two carrier copies of the gene. This means this dog will develop the specific disease or condition. It also means this dog will absolutely produce affected puppies IF bred to a carrier or affected mate. Affecteds bred to non-carriers will never produce affecteds.

Genetic testing provides the breeder knowledge of the carrier status of breeding dogs, and enables using all potential breeding dogs equally, regardless of their status, in order to maintain genetic diversity in the Portuguese Water Dog gene pool.