Copper Toxicity DNA Report

Dec 4

Canine Copper Toxicity and DNA Testing: What Pomsky Pet Owners Need to Know

A new DNA test for canine copper toxicity is now available to help identify dogs that may be at risk of this condition.

For Pomsky owners, there is no cause for concern, as this condition does not impact our breed, according to UC Davis and Embark. It potentially affects Labradors and Dobermans.

If you have other breeds, such as a Lab or Doberman, and would like better understand the test and the terminology, then keep reading below:

This simple test has raised questions among pet owners, so here’s what you need to know:

1. Carrier vs. Affected Dogs

Carriers are dogs that carry one copy of the gene linked to copper toxicity but typically do not show symptoms.
Affected dogs have two copies of the gene, which may lead to copper buildup in the liver, potentially causing health issues over time.

2. What This Test Is

The DNA test screens for genetic markers linked to copper toxicosis in certain breeds, specifically Labrador Retrievers and Doberman Pinschers. It identifies whether a dog is clear, a carrier, or affected by this condition.

3. New Testing Availability

This test is a recent development, meaning results are not retroactively applied to dogs previously tested. If your dog was tested before the availability of this screening, you would need to purchase the copper toxicity test separately.

4. What Is Copper Toxicity?

In this context, copper toxicity refers to a genetic condition where affected dogs accumulate excessive copper in the liver, which can potentially lead to liver damage. However, it’s important to note that this condition only affects certain breeds—not Pomskies.

5. Preventing Copper Toxicity

For owners of at-risk breeds, preventive measures may include:

Regular veterinary check-ups to monitor liver health.
Diet adjustments to reduce copper intake, under veterinary guidance.
Genetic testing for breeding decisions, to avoid passing on the affected gene or breeding 2 carrier dogs.

While copper toxicity is a serious condition, the new DNA test provides valuable information for prevention and management. Pomsky owners can rest assured their dogs are not affected, according to the latest reports from UC Davis and Embark. Always consult your veterinarian for any health concerns or questions about genetic testing.

Resources:

https://vgl.ucdavis.edu/test/copper-toxicosis

https://embarkvet.com/resources/embark-adds-copper-toxicosis-dna-test/