The Essential Guide to BAER Testing
The following is a brief introduction to the topic
Dogo Argentino is a breed that originated in Argentina. It has become popular for its muscular build and loyalty. This versatile hunting canine is well-known for its ability to track and capture game. It also serves as a loyal family member and companion. Like any breed, however, the Dogo Argentino has certain genetic health issues. This blog will discuss the importance of Baer tests and the genetics behind the Dogo Argentino breed to better understand its predisposition towards deafness.
The BAER Test
The BAER is a noninvasive procedure which measures the electrical activity in a dog’s auditory pathways when sound stimuli are presented. The test measures the brainstem response to auditory stimuli, and traces the neural pathway that leads from the inner ear (cochlea) through the nerve of the auditory system into the brainstem.
During the BAER, a series electrodes is placed on the dogs' scalp. One electrode is placed at the base of each of the ears, while a ground electrode is placed on either the forehead or the back. Earphones deliver sound stimuli such as clicks and tone bursts to each ear individually. The electrodes detect the electrical activity that is produced by the brainstem and auditory nerve in response to the sounds.
Electrical signals are amplified, and then displayed on a computer or graph. These waveforms are interpreted by a trained specialist to determine whether the dog is deaf or not.
The Piebald gene is responsible for the predisposition of Dogo Argentinos to deafness. BAER testing can help to identify dogs with hearing impairments and minimize the prevalence of deafness within the breed. It is important to identify hearing impaired dogs to minimize the prevalence and incidence of deafness in the breed.
The Benefits of BAER Testing
Early detection: The BAER can be used to detect hearing impairments in puppies as young 5-6 weeks. Early detection allows breeders and dog owners to make the necessary changes in a dog's care, training and living conditions.
It is a reliable test that gives accurate results. The BAER test measures the brain's reaction to auditory stimuli. This accuracy makes the test a reliable way to determine a dog's level of hearing.
Breeders who are informed can avoid breeding dogs that have unilateral or bilateral deafness. Selective breeding reduces the likelihood of deaf pups and maintains the health of the breed.
BAER testing is necessary to detect dogs with hearing impairments. This will help breeders make better decisions and reduce the prevalence deafness.
Piebald is the primary cause of deafness among the Dogo Argentino. The piebald gene influences the distribution and development of melanocytes, pigment-producing cells, in the inner ear, skin and hair.
Melanocytes are essential for the correct function of the inner ear's hearing structures. When the piebald genes interfere with the melanocytes development, structures that transmit sound signals to the head may degenerate and lead to deafness.
The S-locus is the specific location on a dog's chromosome where this gene is located. This determines their coat colors. The S-locus contains several alleles. The piebald allele, which is dominant, will manifest its traits even if other variants are present. The piebald gene affects the distribution of the melanocytes that produce pigment in the skin, hair and inner ear of dogs.
The stria vascularis, and specifically the melanocytes, play a vital role in the development of inner-ear hearing structures. The stria vascularis is responsible for maintaining a correct ion equilibrium in the inner ear. This is important for transmitting sound signals from the ear to the brain. The stria vascularis may degenerate when melanocytes have been compromised or are absent due to the Piebald gene. This can lead to sensorineural hearing loss.
Not all dogs carrying the piebald gene develop deafness. Piebald and deafness are complex relationships that can be affected by environmental and genetic factors. Nevertheless, the piebald gene remains a major risk factor for deafness among Dogo Argentinos.
Responsible Breeding Practices
Responsible breeding practices are required to reduce the prevalence deafness among the Dogo Argentino. Breeders must always test potential breeding dogs for BAER and avoid breeding deaf dogs.
Dogo Argentino breeders must adhere to these guidelines, and be committed to improving the overall health of this breed. A responsible breeder will not only increase the likelihood of getting a healthy puppy, but also support efforts to reduce the deafness within the breed.
If the dog has hearing impairments, it may be more likely to carry the piebald gene. This is because the gene is the primary cause of deafness in the breed. Dogo Argentinos with hearing impairments are more likely to have the piebald gene. This gene is responsible for the majority of deafness within the breed. Keep in mind, however, that even a dog who has full hearing can carry the piebald gene.
Conclusion
Piebald is present in the Dogo Argentino. This breed, which is strong and loyal, has a genetic predisposition towards deafness. BAER testing is crucial in identifying dogs who have hearing impairments. Responsible breeding practices are also necessary to reduce the prevalence of deafness. Breeders and owners can ensure that this breed is healthy and happy by understanding genetics and performing proper testing. There is no direct genetic test available for dogs that detects the piebald gene. In the future, as our knowledge of canine genes continues to grow, a genetic test that accurately identifies the presence of the Piebald gene in Dogo Argentinos or other breeds may be developed.
