​​​As breeders, health is our number one priority! It is our responsibility to make sure that we know the exact genetic make-up of all the dogs used in the Sakari Australian Shepherd breeding program, so that we may create genetically sound puppies. A very important role in improving the breeds' next generation, begins with health testing! We need to do our best to ensure the fact that we do not allow defected genes to pass on, as we are essentially striving for homozygosity within all genes (one CLEAR gene from each parent being passed onto the offspring). The chart below demonstrates how genetics can be passed on.

• Homozygous – two copies of the gene indicated are represented by the same allele.

• Allele – one or more alternative form of a gene.

• Genotype – the genetic constitution (code) of an individual organism.

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​​​​As you can see below, there are three possible outcomes for test results: Clear, Carrier and Affected.

• Clear (N|N):  This finding indicates that the gene is not present in your dog. Therefore, when used for breeding, a Clear dog will not pass on the disease gene.

• Carrier (M|N):  This finding indicates that one copy of the disease gen is present in your dog, but that it will not exhibit disease symptoms. Carriers will not have medical problems as a result. Dogs with Carrier status can be enjoyed without the fear of developing medical problems but will pass on the disease gene 50% of the time.​

• Affected (M|M):  This finding indicates that two copies of the disease are present in the dog. Unfortunately, the dog will be medically affected by the disease. Appropriate treatment should be pursued by consulting a veterinarian.