I too lost my precious friend to a gallbladder mucocele

SRW said:
After reading about this I decided to have Devon genetically tested for it. I was going to have him tested for MDR1 anyway, so while I'm at it I'll have him tested for this too. If he has the mutation then I'll know in the coming years that he will need to occasionally have a gallbladder ultrasound and to take any digestive issues that may occur seriously.
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Is there really a reliable genetic test for mucocele? I'd love to know.
 
Sharon7 said:
Is there really a reliable genetic test for mucocele? I'd love to know.
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This is the only place I found that did it. I bought the 5 Sheltie breed tests (MDR1 was included) and added the mucocele test. The swab kit arrived in just a few days, and I just mailed it back today. I'll post back when I get the results and upload a copy of what the report looks like.

If you buy some tests make sure to check out the discounts before you purchase as you can get 40% off (the price even with the discount still isn't cheap, but it's much better than without it). Here is the link:

https://www.pawprintgenetics.com/products/diseases/101/
 
I received the genetic test results back today on Devon, and thankfully he is normal on all six tests, including the one for Gallbladder Mucoceles. I've attached a copy of the report so that you can see what you get in case you might be interested in having your Sheltie tested.
 

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Please do not rely on these tests. It breaks my heart to see people spending money on genetic testing which gives owners a false sense of security. If it could be tested then ASSA and breeders would have been testing for it and recommending it.

https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.1177/1040638714532099
Cullen et al, 'Lack of association of ABCB4 insertion mutation with gallbladder mucoceles in dogs', Journal of Veterinary Diagnostic Investigation 2014, Vol. 26(3) 434–436
In conclusion, the present study brings into question the association of ABCB41583_1584G with GBM in dogs. However, it does not rule out the possibility that the etiology of GBM in dogs is multifactorial and that ABCB4 dysfunction may be one of many contributing factors. What this study does make clear is that clinical use of a genetic test for ABCB4 1583_1584G is premature and would not yet provide useful diagnostic information for veterinarians. It would also not provide dog breeders with information necessary to make informed breeding decisions.​

It is your money to spend as you see fit, but do still monitor for GBM as recommended.
 
As someone with three GB Shelties, I could not second what Caro says more strongly. Ultrasound is the only absolute way to tell whether your dog has the sludge that forms before a mucocele. It's a simple test to have done for your peace of mind and your dog's health.
 
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