DNA – Frequently Asked Questions

What information does the DNA testing provide?
EBKC DNA Profiling is for parentage verification and genetic identity purposes only. It does not provide information regarding genetic health, conformation, performance ability, coat color, etc. EBKC DNA is not a breed identification test beyond confirming parentage if the sire and dam also have DNA on file.

Can DNA testing determine the breed of a dog?
No. EBKC DNA testing does not determine the breed of a dog.

What type of DNA Genetic Marker Reading is used for the Test?
The EBKC follows the genetic marker reading standards set by the International Society for Animal Genetics: ISAG

What compliance doe the designated Laboratories have in
order to performs these tests on behalf of the EBKC?
The designated Genetic Laboratories used by the EBKC are
in compliance with ISO 17025 standards.

Why did the EBKC get involved in DNA?
DNA offers the EBKC the possibility of ensuring the accuracy of the registry in a way never before possible.

What is the DNA Profile Program?
The DNA Profile Program is a voluntary program the breeders can use to strengthen their breeding programs. Participants receive an EBKC letter of DNA Analysis with the dog’s registration information, owner’s name, DNA Profile Number, and the dog’s actual genotype.

How can I order a DNA Test Kit?
We offer a Prepaid Test Kit for only €60.00 (per dog).
Prepaid DNA test kits are nonrefundable.

DNA Test Kits may be ordered by the DNA Profile Test & DNA Swab Kit Order Form

Please include your name, address, and the number of dogs you wish to test. Include €60.00 per dog for Prepaid Test Kits; Prepaid DNA test kits are nonrefundable.

Will the DNA information appear on Registration materials?
Yes, if the dog is individually registered at the time the swab is submitted to the EBKC . After the Profile of DNA Analysis has been issued, all subsequent Registration.

How is the sample collected?
A small bristle brush or swab is inserted in the dog’s mouth, swirled against the inside of the cheek and the sample is collected. It is this simple collection process that makes it possible to use DNA on a large scale to help the accuracy of the EBKC registry.

How are the samples processed?
For the Compliance Audit, EBKC staff members collect, identify, seal and mail the samples to EBKC. For the DNA Profile Program, the owner or owner’s agent collects the sample and mails it to the EBKC, where the samples are entered into the database, bar-coded for reference, and batched for shipment to the designated laboratory used by the EBKC. After processing by the Labs, the resulting genotypes are transmitted to EBKC for inclusion in the EBKC DNA Database.

What is the Compliance Audit Program?
The Compliance Audit Program is a mandatory part of the Inspections program and includes the use of DNA for parentage verification. Breeders are selected on a random basis by EBKC management for routine kennel inspections. All costs connected with DNA processing and analysis will be paid by the EBKC, except retesting of excluded litters. An administrative fee of EUR 250.00 will be charged when a breeder/owner requests retesting of an excluded litter.

As a breeder/owner/broker using EBKC services, what happens if I refuse to make my dogs available during a routine kennel inspection?
Refusing to make dogs available for DNA testing is considered the same as refusing inspection and may result in action by the EBKC Management Disciplinary Committee. Inspection procedures provide that the EBKC has the right to inspect the records required to be kept and to examine any dog registered or to be registered with the European Bully Kennel Club. Such examination may include DNA tests or other procedures at the discretion of the EBKC. Responsible breeders with accurate records have everything to gain by incorporation of these DNA tests into the routine inspection program.

Who owns the DNA samples and are they stored?
All samples collected become part of the EBKC DNA program and database. They will be archived at the discretion of the EBKC.

What if I still have questions?
Please contact us on info@ebkc.org

WHATSAPP LIVE CHAT (10am to 5pm GMT+2)