When people ask you what breed your dog is, how do you answer? Unless you have a purebred complete with papers, you may say something like, “I’m not sure … Pit Bull maybe Poodle or perhaps Pyrenees with a little bit of Cocker Spaniel and just a touch of Chihuahua thrown in?” There are literally hundreds of super-mutts in this great melting pot of a country, and each one of them has a unique genetic story.
Have you given up hope of ever knowing your dog’s genetic make-up? Recent developments in DNA testing have led to an inexpensive, easy and fun way to find out how your beloved pup is bred. Learn how you can test your dog’s DNA.
Doggie DNA Tests
Developed by a variety of companies specializing in DNA testing for dogs, breed-focused doggie DNA tests are available through most veterinarians and pet supply stores. Pet parents can also purchase a wide variety of tests online. The majority of tests require pet parents to swab the inside of their dog’s cheek, place the swab in a vial and mail it for testing.
The cheek swab is then analyzed and the pet parent is supplied with a detailed print out of their dog’s ancestry. These tests can go so far as to detail what breed each of the dog’s parents were and how much of each breed is in the genetic makeup of your pooch.
If you are interested in testing your dog’s DNA, contact any of the following prominent DNA testing companies:
The Benefits of Testing Your Dog’s DNA
Breed-focused doggie DNA tests are not designed for diagnostic purposes, however, they can be a great deal of fun, especially for people who own a super-mutt and have spent years speculating about exactly what their dog is. Additionally, they provide pet parents with a way to learn more about dogs with questionable genetic histories, such as those found as strays or adopted from a shelter.
Testing a dog’s DNA can provide pet parents with important genetic information that allows them to better guard against illness, diseases and degenerative conditions that the dog may be susceptible to, based upon their breeding. For example, if you have recently learned via a DNA test that your dog is 50% German Shepherd, you can take early steps for issues like hip dysplasia long before they arise.
The Case for DNA Testing
Although breed-focused doggie DNA testing does not provide any distinct medical benefit, it can be a great way for pet parents to bond with their dogs and have more interesting conversations at the dog park. Perfect for the pet parent who has spent years puzzling over his or her pooch, doggie DNA testing can help you fill in the missing pieces of your dog’s genetic history.
Content reviewed by a veterinarian.
Photo ©iStock.com/shunyufan
