Know Your Dog's DNA

For curious dog owners who are interested in their canine's heritage, a doggie DNA test will solve the mystery.  DNA testing is often spoken in the context of human testing.  It often serves as a tool to help determine the father in a pregnancy, otherwise known as a paternity test.  It can also aid in joining siblings together.  Now there is a growing trend of dog owners that do not know their dog's breed and would like to find out by doing a simple DNA test.  A survey was done to mutt owners, and almost all of them did not know which breeds comprise the dog's background.  About 60% of the mutt owners would like to know this information.

One of the reasons for the increased interest in canine testing is the availability of these tests.  It is a very simple process for owners to determine the breed of their dog.  All they must do is swab the pet's mouth and mail it to the lab.  The results can be returned in a few weeks.  Another big factor is due to the declining cost of canine DNA tests.  A swab test typically costs less than $100.  A blood test is likely to double or triple the cost of a swab test. 

DNA testing for canines can also be helpful in preventing certain diseases that are prevalent certain breeds.  When the breed of the dog is known, steps can be taken to help prevent the disease from even occurring.  This obviously not be possible if the breed were unknown.  These tests are not always 100% accurate, especially when the DNA gets muddied after many generations.  But given the inexpensive cost of testing, it may be worth a try.

There are many types of DNA services that can be purchased.  One is parentage verification that will certify the authenticity of pedigrees.  Another doggie DNA test service that is available is DNA profiling.  This is the most accurate method for securing individual identification that is permanent.  Most DNA testing services provide collection procedures or instructions on how to collect the DNA sample from the canine.  They can help screen for inherited diseases.  Doggie DNA testing can also help breeders with inherited traits screening.  This type of screening can lead to breed improvement programs.  There are many advantages to DNA testing for canines, and for those owners who love their mutt, it's a great way to get to know your mutt a little better!