The popularity of home DNA kits for humans has exploded to more than 18 million kits sold according to the International Society of Genetic Genealogy. So, it is easy to see why dog owners would want to learn more about their best friends through DNA testing. Here’s what to know before testing your dog’s DNA.
DNA: The Code of Life
The DNA of every living organism contains a unique blueprint of genetic characteristics. Each DNA is segmented into genes. Interestingly, dogs have 20,000 to 25,000 genes, the same as their humans! While humans only have 46 chromosomes (or 23 pairs), our canines have a whopping 78 chromosomes! That’s a lot of genetic information!
Why DNA Testing for Dogs?
Twenty years ago, DNA testing became available for man’s best friend. As with humans, DNA testing offers a plethora of valuable information in understanding and caring for our beloved four-legged friends.
A K9’s DNA reveals:
- Breed identification by percentage breakdown. This information is helpful for proper healthcare, training and specific traits suited for certain kinds of K9 work.
- Specific traits for coat color, pattern or texture, personality and behaviors.
- K9 health diseases, illnesses and disorders both hereditary and predisposed.
- Parentage and pedigree tracking through a technology known as “genetic fingerprinting” and
- Genetic profile that helps enforce pet waste laws and more.
Should YOU do K9 DNA Testing?
Thinking about doing DNA testing on your dog? Before you do, keep the following pros and cons in mind.
- Have a Mixed Breed Dog?
It can be fun and informative to find out what breeds are included in your mixed breed dog. You can also be on the outlook for any hereditary diseases those breeds may be prone to developing. For example:
- Large and giant breeds are prone to hip problems known as dysplasia.
- Huskies are prone to autoimmune disorders.
- English Bulldogs are prone to obesity and subsequent health conditions.
- Chihuahuas are known to develop hypoglycemia or low blood sugar.
Learn about the 6 common breeds found in mixed dog breeds at PetMD.
- Choosing a Specific DNA Test
Keep in mind that the K9 DNA test you ultimately use is only as good as the database it is tested against. The size and quality of the test’s database has a direct correlation on any test results.
Make sure the database used in the DNA testing holds data on the area you know your pet is from. For example, testing a dog in the United States against a primarily European database is a waste of your money.
- Cheaper is not Better
The adage, “you get what you pay for,” also applies to K9 DNA testing. Do your research before investing in a DNA test to ensure it will deliver on your expectations. Again, cheaper DNA tests may have smaller, lower-quality databases that provide skewed results due to the lack of detailed K9 information.
- Be Realistic with the Results
DNA testing is still an evolving field for both humans and our faithful companions. Even the best DNA test does not replace the advice and experience of your regular veterinarian. But the information provided is a valuable resource for keeping your pet healthy and happy! Also share the results with your veterinarian, so together, you can take better care of the dog you love.
Click here to learn about the best dog DNA Tests of 2020 at Canine Journal.
Click here to learn about Dog DNA Tests on GoodHousekeeping.com.
East Valley K9 Services has got all your dog training needs covered!
Call 480-382-0144 or send us an email.
Serving Chandler, Gilbert, Tempe and East Valley areas of Arizona.
Additional Reading:
Met Life Pet Insurance: Should I DNA Test my Dog?
AKC: What You Need to Know About Dog DNA Tests
Petplan: Can DNA Testing Help to Keep Your Pet Healthy?
PetMD: Dog DNA Tests: The 6 Most Common Results for Mixed Breed Dogs
Image Credits (Shown in Order of Appearance):
Eddie Galaxy from Pexels
Goochie Poochie Grooming from Pexels
Wallace Chuck from Pexels
Chokniti Khongchum from Pixabay
Courtesy: East Valley K9 Services
