EtalonDx is taking the guesswork out of these traits
July 17, 2020
"Good temperament in my horses means the world to me. In order to develop a strong partnership with a horse that I am riding, the horse needs to be both willing and curious. Up until recently, these traits were something that I had to discover on my own over time when a new horse came in for training.
EtalonDx is taking the guesswork out of these traits. While temperament is a complex trait influenced by multiple genetic and environmental factors, Etalon has found that predisposition to traits like curiosity (an interest in novel objects and a willingness to approach them) and vigilance (the tendency of a horse to examine its surroundings carefully and from a safer distance) can be seen within the genetic makeup of each horse.
After Etalon Diagnostics did this testing on Diego and Pat we now know that they were both homozygous for the G allele, and horses homozygous for the G allele (G/G) have been found to display both higher curiosity and lower vigilance scores. I guess I have a type!
Whether you want to find your type for training purposes, or you’re planning to breed and want to test for certain traits that you’d like to replicate or avoid, Etalon Diagnostics is a treasure chest of valuable information!"
-Laine Ashker Eventing and Dressage
News & Media
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Discover the genetic muscle diseases affecting horses, including HYPP, PSSM1, MYHM, GBED, MH, and Myotonia. Learn how Etalon Equine Genetics tests can help breeders and owners make informed decisions for better horse health and management.
Genetic Health Risks: Equine Metabolic Syndrome and Laminitis
Discover how genetics influence Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) and laminitis risk. Learn about early detection, management strategies, and how DNA testing can help protect your horse from these potentially life-altering conditions.
Why We Don’t Test for Certain Equine Genes: A Focus on Ethics and Evidence
Etalon Equine Genetics ensures ethical, evidence-based DNA testing. Learn why we prioritize clinical validation and don’t offer tests for unvalidated genes like EJSCA, PSSM2, or roan color—providing clarity and reliable insights for horse owners.
Podcast Episodes
From Hoofbeats to Healing: Veterans and Mustangs
Genetics Unbridled Podcast | Ep. 10
What if there was a way to bridge the gap between military veterans and their civilian lives using the unlikeliest of companions—wild mustangs? Or a w...
Press Releases
Etalon Equine Genetics Discovers Three New White Marking Variants in a New Gene
March 19, 2024
Menlo Park, CA - Etalon Equine Genetics has made another landmark discovery in the field of equine genetics. For the first time in 10 years, a new genetic region for color has been found!
Read MoreEtalon Equine Genetics Discovers New Novel White Variant in Pura Raza Española Horses
December 23, 2023
Menlo Park, CA - Etalon Equine Genetics, a leading provider of equine DNA testing services, has made an exciting breakthrough in equine genetics.
Read MoreAPHA Approves New White Marking Variant W35 “Holiday” in Horses Discovered by Etalon Equine Genetics
December 23, 2023
Menlo Park, CA - Etalon Equine Genetics, a leading provider of DNA testing services, has made another novel discovery in the field of equine genetics. The company has identified a new white marking variant now designated as W35.
Read More