DNA Profiling

What is a DNA Profile or DNA Parentage Profile?

Each dog has a unique DNA profile that can be used to identify a dog for life. In addition, a DNA profile can also be compared to its parents’ profiles to verify parentage.

A dog inherits half of its DNA from its dam and the other from its sire, which makes up a DNA profile. Therefore, if DNA profiles are available from both parents, a dog’s DNA profile can verify that its registered parents are in fact, the biological parents. 

It is important to understand that a DNA Profile does not determine the breed of the dog or if the dog is purebred. It also does not provide information about the conformation of the dog or the presence/absence of genetic diseases. 

CKC refers to a DNA Parentage Profile in the Policy and Procedures Manual, Chapter IV, Registration, Section E. Registration of Litters: 
 
When registering a litter with a foreign sire, CKC requires a “DNA Parentage Profile” to accompany the application. When CKC refers to a DNA Parentage Profile, we are referring to a DNA Profile of the foreign stud dog that could be used for parentage verification purposes. 

When am I required to provide CKC with a DNA Parentage Profile? 

A document profiling the DNA of a foreign sire (DNA Parentage Profile) that may be used for parentage verification must be provided with a litter application if the Sire is not registered with CKC. This applies to all litters born after June 30, 2020. This also applies to litters produced as a result of semen collected for fresh, chilled or frozen use. 
 
Semen collected and stored prior to July 1, 2020 is exempt from submitting a DNA parentage profile with a litter application. 
 
Additionally, CKC registers litters with more than one sire. This is another instance where you may be required to provide CKC with DNA Profiles, as a DNA Parentage report for the Sires, Dam and each puppy is required in order for the litter to be eligible for registration. 

Why do I need to provide a DNA Parentage Profile? 

This policy was implemented as the Board of Directors felt that there should be a mechanism in place to verify the parentage of Canadian born litters with foreign born sires from a foreign registry or stud book. 
 
The DNA Profile of the foreign stud dog will be used for parentage verification should any issues advance relating to the integrity of the registry. Parentage is only verified by comparing the DNA profiles for the sire, dam and progeny of the litter. 
 

How do I obtain a DNA Parentage Profile? 

CKC does not provide a DNA Profiling service or DNA Parentage Analysis Service. This means that applicants registering a litter with a foreign sire will need to obtain a DNA profile from a DNA facility. 
 
Although CKC does not license, sponsor or endorse any specific DNA facility, there is a list of known DNA facilities in Canada and the USA listed in Appendix 5 of the Policy and Procedures Manual, Chapter 4.
 
If the stud dog is frequently used or has competed at a National Breed Show with the AKC, it is possible that you already have a record of the AKC DNA Profile of the Sire. This document can be provided with your litter registration if it is required. 

What is involved? 

Although each DNA testing facility may be slightly different, a cheek swab to be sent for analysis is usually needed to obtain a DNA Profile of your dog. This is an easy, non-invasive way to collect samples for a genetic DNA tests, and often does not require a visit to the veterinarian. 

DNA testing facilities will be able to provide more information on specific processes involved.