Finding Out Your Dog’s Genetic Make-up with Dog Breed DNA Testing

Have you ever wondered what kind of dog your mixed-breed mutt is? You’re not alone. Most pet owners want to know as much as possible about their dogs. Believe it or not, it’s now possible to find out about your dog‘s genetic make-up with affordable home DNA testing.

It’s a great idea, and not just for reasons of curiosity, either. Invaluable information can come from knowing the genetic make-up of your dog. Since humans and dogs first began living together thousands of years ago, selective breeding has produced dogs who come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and behaviors. Research scientists have discovered in recent years by checking the DNA of dog breeds that specific genes control life span, many behaviors, and physical characteristics in dogs. And many of these genes are breed-specific.

Many dogs need plenty of space and need to get plenty of daily exercise and this requirement is not just want but a genetic need. If your dog is predominantly Weimaraner, for example, he’s probably going to be big and he’s going to need a lot of walking and a lot of high-energy play. Knowing this type of information about your dog can be a wonderful thing to know, as it can increase both his happiness and yours.

Knowing the breed of your dog can be important for health reasons, too. Some dog breeds have a specific set of health issues. For instance, Labrador Retrievers are plagued by hip dysplasia, heartworm medications can have adverse effects on some breeds of Collies, and Beagles are prone to early-onset glaucoma. Wouldn’t that be a good thing to know about your dog, before any problems start?

Home DNA testing is performed on the cheek cells of your dog, and cheek cells have the same genetic information as cells found in blood, but are a lot easier to collect. You will be provided with a soft bristle nylon brush, which you merely swipe across the inside of your dog‘s cheek, and then mail it off to the lab. Easy and inexpensive, home dog breed DNA testing saves you a trip to the veterinarian to have blood drawn from your dog, which saves you both money and time, not to mention saves your pet from the pain of an invasive procedure. Instead the cheek swab is done comfortably in your home, avoiding trauma to your pet and extra expense. Results of the test are usually available in 4 to 6 weeks.

DNA dog breed testing is something of a new idea in the dog world, but it is becoming more and more popular every day, and for very good reason. Dog owners increasingly want to know their dog‘s heritage, not just for fun, but for the priceless physical, health, and behavioral information it can provide. Mixed breed dogs often have the best temperaments and physical attributes, but it is wonderful to know what lies behind it, in case of potential problems later on down the line, or special care that your dog might need. It’s a great value for the money, and DNA dog breed testing is easy to do at home.