According to some veterinary geneticists, people can guess just one breed present in a mixed-breed dog correctly less than 25 percent of the time. But aside from having a quick answer for those inquiring minds at the local dog park, you may want to find out if your pet has any potential health conditions that could turn out to be problematic for the dog, and expensive for you. While a DNA test may suggest vulnerability to a disease, it’s always best to take that info to a vet. But still, it’s nice knowing what mix of breed will be spending oodles of time with your child and filling your home with fun and laughter – and chew toys. Here are our picks for great dog DNA tests.
More than 350 types
The Embark DNA test generally provides results between 2 to 4 weeks of testing, and screens for more than 350 dog breeds, types and varieties. The testing protocol is based off of a genotyping platform developed in partnership with Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. It can also detect 190-plus genetic diseases including drug sensitivities, which is pertinent for any future trips to the vet, plus glaucoma, degenerative myelopathy (spinal disease), and dilated cardiomyopathy (enlarged heart). Hopefully the results are negative and your experience is positive. But it’s good information to know, and perhaps there are measures you can take to help lessen your pet’s chance of occurrences.
Do it yourself
The Wisdom Panel testing kit is also equipped to determine more than 350 breeds, types, and varieties. Like most kits, the steps involve collecting DNA via cheek swab, activating the kit online, and sending the kit to the lab with pre-paid shipping. This product provides a genetic analysis in as little as 2 weeks. This company has developed the largest and most comprehensive breed database in the world by using a sophisticated algorithm on more than 1.5 million dogs. The hardest part is getting inside your dog’s mouth – the rest will be easy.
A slew of information
The DNA My Dog test is another in-home option that will provide speedy results in about two weeks, which is always helpful when you need to know information quickly. Also good for use in animal shelters and veterinary offices. The results include a report on all breeds found in your dog’s DNA by percentage, a custom DNA analysis certificate, and finalized breed determination report. Additionally it includes an outline of the generic health concerns and personality traits for every breed found in your dog’s genetic profile, which is helpful for most laypeople who wouldn’t otherwise know the personality of a terrier from a great pyrenees. And it helps you plan better for your pet’s wellness.
Caring for your canine
This product does not test for breed identification, so you will need to know the breeds that make up your dog in order to use this kit. But it does screen for dozens of diseases and traits and runs an algorithmic analysis that will create a life plan based on breed, age, weight, gender, lifestyle, and geographic location. The life plan can then be shared with your pet’s veterinarian who can implement a customized wellness plan centered around effective nutrition, overall wellness, and a medical program. The health risks outlined in the test are further classified based on impact, showing only the most relevant conditions for your dog. Very helpful in optimizing your best friend’s healthcare for a long and happy relationship.
Gather health background
Uncover DNA-based insights that may help you understand your dog’s unique appearance, behaviours, and wellness needs with this kit that tests for 250-plus breeds, types, and varieties. Like most kits, it directly tests for the mutant MDR1 gene (multi-drug sensitivity), which can be instrumental in the prevention of serious adverse drug reactions. It also provides an adult weight range prediction to aid in making appropriate nutrition and diet choices, and breed insights for understanding behaviour to formulate an effective training program for your pal. Especially helpful to optimize care for those lovable rescue mutts who come with no records or health history.
Zac Jones is a contributing writer to Florida Travel & Life, an online brand that inspires active, affluent travelers, providing them with insider information on discovering the best of Florida. Informative and engaging, the website showcases travel destinations, arts and cultural venues, vibrant dining scenes, recreational activities, the great outdoors and the revitalized real-estate market. Zac is a former broadcast journalist, TV actor, voiceover artist, and executive producer. As a baseball aficionado, he enjoys rooting for Florida’s Tampa Bay Rays.
