DNA AND TESTING

DNA & Testing

Below, you will find information regarding AMTC DNA and Health Testing Requirements

The AMTC DNA Profiling brings parentage testing technology to AMTC customers. A cheek swab brush is used to collect the DNA sample from the dog, and returned to the AMTC. The sample is processed by AMTC’s DNA service provider, Animal Genetics, and the resulting genotype is entered into the American Morkshire Terrier Registry (AMTR) DNA Database. The information is used to verify parentage of ATMC dogs and for genetic identity purposes. AMTC DNA does not determine the breed of a dog or if a dog is a purebred. This technology allows breeders, dog owners, and the AMTC to ensure that the AMTC Registry is accurate.

DNA which stands for: Deoxyribonucleic Acid is composed of a sequence of substances known as nucleotides. DNA carries a unique blueprint for every individual living organism. Genes are segments of DNA and these code for specific proteins that play the central role in building, maintaining and reproducing cells. Do you know that dogs have about 20,000 to 25,000 genes that are located along 78 chromosomes compared to humans who have only 46.

DNA testing is used for dogs in the following ways;

To confirm parentage,
To enforce pet waste laws,
To determine the mix in hybrid-dogs,
To detect inherited diseases and;
To reveal any hidden traits a dog may have.

The American Morkshire Terrier Club's DNA profiling, is a genotype that AMTC uses to check a dogs identification when a dog is of question and/or any errors may have occurred such as:

Exclusion of a litter due to the intent and/or knowledge of the breeder/owner. In such case, AMTC may seek suspension after confirming the first exclusion.
In cases where a AMTC customer questions the recorded parentage of a dog or litter. In such case, the customer must submit a complaint in writing to the AMTC requesting DNA testing. The complaint must be accompanied by a deposit in the amount of $300.00. If the allegation is supported the deposit will be returned to the customer who filed the complaint. If the allegation is found not-supported, the deposit is forfeited and becomes the property of the American Morkshire Terrier Club, Inc.
In ANY cases where the parentage is shown to be incorrect, AMTC will work with customers to correct the registrations of dogs and litters when possible. The responsible parties will be expected to pay for the DNA processing costs and registration correction fees. Registration services will be placed on hold until payment is made.
In the event where corrections cannot be made and breeding members have been found to have falsified information, the AMTC will seek disciplinary procedures including revoking AMTC membership. To maintain genetic diversity, improve customer relations, and still maintain the accuracy of the registry, the Board of Directors approved the concept to allow the issuing of "Conditional registration certificates and pedigrees", rather than canceling the registrations of a dog, all of its littermates and all of their progeny in these cases, *effective December 25, 2019.
Customer DNA complaint Policy.

DNA Profiling is required for stud dogs whose semen is collected for fresh-extended or frozen use. AMTC DNA Profiling is also required for frequently used sires and dams - these dogs must be AMTR registered after 1st litter and any subsequent litters, effective for litters whelped on or after July 1, 2019, and for imported breeding stock registered on or after August 1, 2019.

The dog owner will receive a copy of DNA profile for each dog sampled. Additionally, for dogs individually registered at the time the DNA sample is received by the AMTC, the DNA Profile Number will be added to that dog’s registration record, and will appear on all Registration Certificates and Pedigrees issued in the future.

Dogs who have already processed their DNA through a lab AMTC recognizes prior to August 1, 2019 can send a copy of their DNA records to AMTC so the dog can become AMTC DNA Profiled.

DNA Profiling may be used to determine the correct Sire and Dam of a litter before registering that litter, such as in cases where the dam was exposed to more than one male during her season and litters in question. Additionally, the AMTC can register litters with more than one sire. Follow this link for more information about this policy multiple sired litters.

Order DNA test kits

For further information about this or other DNA information, contact AMTC.

DNA Breed verification

AMTC is happy to announce that we now offer DNA Breed Verification Tests offered through Viaguard. The American Morkshire Terrier has a "Distinct Genetic Marker" with Viaguard Canine Genetics and AMTC is currently working with Wisdom Panel to add the Genetic Marker with their lab and currently working with a Lab out of Canada as well.

Canine Breed Determination
Viaguard's simple cheek swab DNA test lets you learn the breeds in your dog and gain insight into the unique genetic background of your dog. This includes the history of their breed, personality traits and exercise level requirements. This is a precise scientific test based that allows you to determine the breeds included in your dog’s heritage.

To order your Canine Breed Determination Test.

testING Requirements

Testing registration criteria for Level 2 breeding dogs is a response to the commitment to health demonstrated by the AMTC mission statement not only in its strong code of ethics requiring health screening, but also in the foundation of the American Morkshire Terrier breed and the AMTC organization. Additionally, Animal Genetics has also agreed to give the American Morkshire Terrier their own category.

For Required Health Clearance Tests

Animal Genetics Lab

GenSol Banner