Shedding

The MC5R-gene has been identified as a gene that can impact the degree of shedding in certain dog breeds. The MC5R-gene is expressed in the hair follicle glands that produce the oily, waxy substance called sebum. This secretion of sebaceous glands keeps the hair flexible and assists in lubrication, thermo-regulation and water repellence. The variants of MCR5-gene disrupt the structure of sebum and result in increased shedding. There exist two variants of this gene: A and G. The G-variant is the original gene generated during evolution and is responsible for high degree of shedding. Dogs carrying one copy of this variant have increased shedding and dogs inheriting two copies of this variant have even higher degree of shedding.

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MC5R

The RSPO2-gene is another gene impacting the hair quality. The overall degree of dog shedding can be determined by genetic testing. It is necessary to test the combination of MC5R and RSPO2 genes.