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With a beautiful variety of coat colors and markings in combination with their impressive muscular build, the striking appearance of the American Staffordshire terrier (AST) is one to behold. The modern AST can trace its origins to 19^th century England when bulldogs of the time were bred to terriers in an attempt to create a dog with the most desirable personality traits of each breed (the specific breed of terrier used in the early breedings is in dispute among domestic dog historians and may have actually been multiple terrier breeds). In 1972, the original name of the breed (used from the time of their 1936 acceptance into the American Kennel Club), Staffordshire terrier, was changed to the current, American Staffordshire terrier by breeders to distinguish their breed of heavier, American bred dogs from the original Staffordshire terrier of England.

As the AST has progressed as a breed, so has the understanding of the genetics that underlies the breed we see today. In addition, the discovery of particular genetic mutations responsible for causing inherited diseases has allowed for the development of genetic tests to identify nonsymptomatic carriers and young dogs affected with late-onset inherited disorders. Through the genetic knowledge gained ...

The adorable Yorkshire terrier has become an important fixture in American households since its introduction to the United States in the late 19^th century. Originally bred in Scotland and going by the name “Scotch terrier”, the Yorkshire terrier was given its modern name after great improvements in the breed were made in the county of Yorkshire in northern England.

Like most dog breeds, the Yorkie has developed some inherited diseases on its path to the modern breed. The genetic mutations responsible for some better known, inherited diseases of Yorkies such as primary lens luxation (PLL) and a form of progressive retinal atrophy known as progressive rod-cone degeneration (PRA-prcd) have been identified. The identification of these mutations has made it possible for Yorkie breeders to test their dams and sires prior to breeding and to use informed selective breeding practices to prevent the birth of puppies with these conditions. While most Yorkie breeders are familiar with PLL and PRA-prcd in the breed, another inherited condition known as degenerative myelopathy (DM) is less well known by Yorkie breeders. However, DM may be a concern worth investigating further in the Yorkie as the associated mutation has been identified in the breed.

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From their roots as a well-rounded Swiss farm dog, the modern Bernese mountain dog (BMD) is well known for its friendly and affectionate demeanor. This intelligent and adaptable breed has gained the love of many Americans since its introduction to the United States in 1926. In 2014 the BMD moved to 31^st place in the AKC registration statistics and appears to be growing in popularity as the breed has moved up 8 places in the rankings since 2009.

Like many purebred dogs, the Bernese mountain dog is known to inherit some health issues that are of major concern to breeders. Unfortunately, genetic discoveries for some of the most concerning inherited issues for BMD breeders, such as a type of cancer known as histiocytic sarcoma, have remained elusive. However, some inherited diseases of Bernese mountain dogs can be avoided through the use of genetic testing technologies and selective breeding practices.

Degenerative Myelopathy

The late-onset neurological disease, degenerative myelopathy (DM) is one such disease that can be prevented through genetic testing. In 2009, a mutation in the canine SOD1 gene was described as a major cause of DM. Since then, the mutation has been reported in over 100 dog breeds including ...