Breeding Reference Articles

Canine Phosphofructokinase (PFK) Deficiency

Canine Phosphofructokinase (PFK) Deficiency is an autosomal recessive genetic disease that inhibits a spaniel’s ability to convert sugar into energy. Spaniels affected by PFK will often exhibit signs of exercise intolerance. Additionally, PFK destroys the red blood cells that deliver oxygen and remove waste throughout the spaniel’s body. This destruction of red blood cells causes the dog to become mildly or moderately anemic and also shows signs of exercise intolerance.

Frequently Used Sire (FUS) DNA Program

The American Kennel Club (AKC) passed a "Frequently Used Sire (FUS) DNA Program" on January 10th 2000. The FUS DNA Program now requires stud dogs with six or more registered litters or stud dogs siring three or more litters in a single calendar year to submit a DNA sample to the AKC’s DNA Operations Center, which will become part of his permanent AKC record. Thereafter, all subsequent Registration Certificates and Pedigrees will include the DNA Profile Number for that sire. This requirement is effective for all litters whelped as of July 1, 2000. Stud dog owners must obtain a DNA Testing Kit from the AKC Fulfillment Department and return it with a cheek swab DNA sample to the AKC DNA Operations Center.

Canine Eye Registration Foundation (C.E.R.F.)

The Canine Eye Registration Foundation (C.E.R.F.) established in 1974, is an organization dedicated to the elimination of heritable eye disease in purebred dogs through registration and research.

The C.E.R.F. registry is a national repository of information collected on both dogs certified free of heritable eye disease, as well as all dogs examined by American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists (A.C.V.O.) diplomates. By compiling data from their registry, C.E.R.F. is able to provide a variety of reports on the frequency of eye diseases in certain breeds. Responsible breeders and dog owners often find the C.E.R.F. registry useful when researching breeding stock and identifying eye problems specific to their breed specialty.

Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA)

The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA), established in 1966, is a non-profit organization established to assist breeders in identifying canines with hip dysplasia. Since its inception, the OFA’s focus has expanded to include numerous additional hereditary concerns (i.e. craniomandibular osteopathy, elbow and patella deformities, etc.).

Guidelines for Selecting a Breeder

The following are a few guidelines to follow when buying a gun dog and selecting a suitable breeder:

1. Do not buy on impulse. Do your homework and find a reputable breeder.
   
2. Reputable breeders should ensure all dogs within his/her foundation breeding stock are of sound temperament and free of any genetic disorders before making breeding decisions. Organizations such at the Orthopedic Foundation Association (O.F.A.) and Canine Eye Registration Foundation (C.E.R.F.) are established to assist breeders in identifying inherited disorders in breeding stock.
   
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