Cleft palate / CP1 (DLX6-related) - Dog

What does this test detect?

This DNA test detects the DLX6LINE-1 insertion that causes cleft palate 1 in dogs. The condition is also known as cleft palate, CP, CP1 or palatoschisis.

What does this mean for the dog?

CP1 is a congenital defect in which an opening or cleft forms in the palate. Affected puppies may have difficulty nursing, milk or food entering the nasal cavity, poor growth and an increased risk of respiratory infections or aspiration pneumonia. A shortened lower jaw or abnormal jaw development may also be present.

Inheritance and result

The trait is inherited as an autosomal recessive disorder. A dog with one copy of the insertion is a carrier. Two copies cause CP1.

Practical value of this test

• Breeders can identify carriers before breeding combinations are chosen.
• The result helps avoid carrier-to-carrier matings and reduces the risk of puppies with cleft palate.
• For lines where CP1 is relevant, the test supports targeted breeding selection and clear communication about carrier status.