Macular corneal dystrophy (MCD)
If you don’t require a full breed-specific package, this individual test for Macular corneal dystrophy (MCD) could be more suitable. For convenience, a test kit will be posted straight to your door alongside a pre-paid envelope for you to return your test.
Key information
What’s included
- Macular corneal dystrophy (MCD) DNA test
Relevant breeds
- Retriever (Labrador)
See further information tab for unlisted breeds.
Turnaround time
1-3 weeks
Required sample
Cheek swab
Next steps
Our health team is available to discuss your results further. You can contact our Health Team here.
Further information
What’s included?
- Macular corneal dystrophy (MCD) DNA test
What breeds is this test relevant for?
Research indicates that this test is relevant for the following breeds:
- Retriever (Labrador)
Why is my dog’s breed not listed?
Unfortunately research has not yet validated this test for other breeds. Our tests are based on robust research, and the mutations tested for have been identified with a high degree of confidence. However, the strength of the association between a mutation and the risk of disease may vary among breeds. It is important to consider this information when purchasing DNA tests and interpreting the results.
We strongly recommend that you carefully review the list of breeds for which a DNA test is relevant for. While owners of any breed can purchase this test, you should exercise caution when interpreting results for breeds not explicitly mentioned in the relevant breed list. Inclusion of results in selection decisions for breeds not listed may be unbeneficial and could impact genetic diversity.
The Kennel Club will only record a DNA test result on your dog’s profile if the test is recognised for the specific breed. The full list of recognised tests can be found here.
Details about the disease
MCD is an inherited eye disease that causes problems with a dog’s sight. In affected dogs, a build-up of carbohydrates causes the surface of the eye (the cornea) to become cloudy.
Clinical signs
Dogs with MCD usually show signs around four to six years old. Affected dogs will have cloudy eyes that may have grey or white spots on the surface. As their eyes become cloudier, they may have problems seeing and may be more likely to bump into things, walk more slowly or may be more nervous when visiting new places.
How does it work?
We’ll send you a sample collection kit straight to your door, but there’s no need to be in for delivery as the box will fit through your letter box. All you need to do is swab the inside of your dog’s cheek using the swabs provided and return them in the pre-paid envelope. Typically we only need one swab for testing, but our sample collection kits contain two swabs to make sure we collect enough DNA and have an extra swab if something isn’t right with the first one.
We'll handle the rest and email you the result as soon as it’s ready.
When will I get the result?
The result will be emailed to you as soon as it’s ready. It’ll also be automatically uploaded onto your dog’s record and you’ll receive a hard copy certificate in the post shortly after.
Turnaround times are dependent on variable factors but we aim to return results within 1-3 weeks of receiving the samples. Sometimes the laboratory must re-run a sample. This is called a retest and in these cases, the turnaround time is inevitably extended, but we’ll keep you updated and let you know if we expect any delays.
How do I collect DNA from my dog?
Collecting a sample of DNA from your dog couldn’t be simpler and there’s no need to visit your vet. We’ll send you two small brushes, known as mouth/buccal swabs, which you can use to gently rub the inside of your dog’s cheek, causing loose cheek cells to stick to the bristles. This is completely painless for your dog and the entire process only takes a few minutes. The swab then needs to be returned to the laboratory, where the cheek cells will be broken open and the DNA is analysed.
How old does my dog have to be?
There are no age restrictions for DNA testing - a dog’s DNA stays the same throughout its entire life.
When testing young puppies, we recommend removing them from their mother for an hour before collecting the sample to avoid cross-contamination.
Why test your dog?
Understanding your dog’s genetics will give you the information you need to prepare for your dog’s future. Knowing in advance what diseases your dog may develop allows you to take preventative steps to support their health and potentially avoid costly vet bills to cover diagnostic tests and treatments later on.
If you're thinking of breeding from your dog, then knowing more about their genetics will reduce the risk of producing puppies affected by inherited conditions. Providing you and new puppy owners with the peace of mind of knowing the health of your puppies’ hasn’t been left to chance.
Can I use this service if my dog isn’t registered with The Kennel Club?
Yes absolutely, we just won’t be able to record the results on our website. When ordering please enter your dog’s microchip number and breed.
Have a discount code?
Discount codes can be applied to your cart before proceeding to checkout. Simply click ‘add a discount code’ and add your unique code. Discount codes are case-sensitive.
The Kennel Club Assured Breeders and Kennel Club Accredited Instructor members receive a 10% discount on all of our DNA testing services. To receive your discount code, please contact The Kennel Club Assured Breeders and Kennel Club Accredited Instructor team.
Why choose The Kennel Club’s DNA testing service?
Not only will we provide you with the information you need to understand your dog’s genetics and to make informed breeding decisions, but you’ll also be contributing towards ongoing scientific research that will help dogs now and in the future.
Where can I find out more about canine genetics?
If you'd like to find out more about how genetic conditions are inherited, what DNA is, how a gene is made and how these translate into a dog’s body then why not read our guide on understanding canine genetics or visit The Kennel Club Academy and watch our film about canine genetics.
For more information about our DNA testing service, please contact our health team.
Delivery
- Free delivery, including VAT, postage and packaging
- Our shipping period is 3-5 working days (Royal Mail 2nd class)
- We aim to return results within 1-3 weeks after receiving the samples, however, we cannot guarantee that any test result shall be issued within this time frame