Why Does Chondro Status Matter?

1. Breeding Risks

If you don’t plan to breed, chondro status doesn’t matter much. But in breeding programs, it’s critical: pairing two chondro-positive animals has a 25% chance of producing a stillborn or severely deformed calf.

2. Complicated Pregnancies

Many breeders prefer using chondro bulls rather than chondro cows when intentionally breeding for the gene. A smaller chondro cow carries a higher risk of difficult or even life-threatening deliveries compared to a mini or mid-sized cow. If the calf is too large to deliver naturally, both dam and calf may be lost. If you’re considering this approach, consult with breeders experienced in chondro pairings.

3. Market Value

Chondro-positive calves are highly sought after and generally command higher prices. For this reason, breeders of mini Highland/Dexter crosses (often referred to as “mini Highlands”) usually test and provide DNA results to buyers — whether or not the buyer plans to breed. If results aren’t provided at the time of sale and you suspect your animal may be chondro positive, testing is well worth it.

📌 Bottom Line:

If you plan to breed, DNA testing is essential for making safe decisions, maintaining herd health, and setting fair market prices. Even if you don’t plan to breed, testing removes uncertainty and adds value to your animal.

For more information on chondro testing, visit:

👉 https://vgl.ucdavis.edu/test/dexter-bulldog-dwarfism