Dog DNA Test: Benefits and Reasons to Try It
Off the top of your head, what's the most unique gift you can get for your pup?
If the first thing that popped into your mind was a dog DNA test kit, you are indeed the best dog owner your pet can ask for!
Have you noticed dog DNA testing has become more popular among pet owners today? If you need more reasons to consider it yourself, start by thinking about the valuable insights you will gain from knowing your furry friend's breed, health, and genetic tendencies.
And here are more reasons to try a dog DNA test.
Benefits and Reasons
Did you know you can learn more about your puppy's physical and personality traits from a DNA test? With humans, you may understand the excitement and insights from learning about your family background and ancestry. Dogs shouldn't be left out of the experience.
Predicting Health and Genetic Conditions
Imagine you can get ahead of any health issues your furry pal may have to deal with throughout their life. Testing your dog will help you identify potential genetic health risks that you can take measures to prevent.
It’s critical to pick up on a Multidrug Resistance 1 (MDR1) mutation early. Is your dog predisposed to it? If so, there is a risk of serious problems and complications after your pup takes certain medications at specific doses. This is just one of many genetic health markers that DNA tests screen for that can help you give your dog more proactive care.
Determining Breed or Breeds in Your Dog
Let's say you're just about to get yourself a pet. Dog DNA testing can be a helpful part of the adoption process. While each dog is unique, understanding which breeds generally match your needs and personality can help you choose the best companion for your household.
You should also know how big your new family member will get; a good DNA test kit will give you their estimated body size and more.
Reveal Hidden Traits
This benefits you whether you are a dog breeder or a pet owner. A dog DNA test can give you valuable information on your dog's performance, genetic diversity, coat color, and features you may not easily know. Imagine the fun of uncovering delightful mysteries about your four-legged pal.
Weight and Diet Recommendations
What's the ideal weight for your dog? DNA tests can predict a dog's adult weight and, more importantly, tell you the best weight range for them. By sharing this information with your veterinarian and having them assessed at their next wellness visit, you can ensure your dog is maintaining a proper diet.
Research Contributions
This doesn't directly fall into what you get from testing your dog, but it's a great way to go!
When you send in your dog’s DNA for a test, you are doing something more than just that. You are also helping the ongoing scientific research on canine health and genetics. That research helps veterinarians better understand and work to improve the quality of life of other dogs. Not only do you get to know more about your dog, but you could also help more rescued puppies find their perfect homes.
How Much Is a DNA Test for a Dog?
How much a dog DNA test will cost you depends on several factors, from the type of test to the company offering the test and the level of detail in the results.
The most common types of tests are breed identification, inherited trait testing, and inherited disease screening. Breed identification tests usually cost $70 to $100, while tests for inherited traits and diseases can cost up to $200 or more for more detailed results. Some tests combine both options. The Basepaws Dog DNA test screens a dog’s DNA for 280 genetic health markers and over 30 genetic trait markers to provide comprehensive info about the dog’s breed and health.
It’s important to note that not all DNA tests will yield the same breed results as one another, even for the same dog. Individual companies may use different sequencing technologies or different genetic databases that are constantly evolving. Some breeds may be underrepresented or misrepresented in those databases. Some companies may claim higher accuracy rates than others, so it’s important to research to find what works best for you.
How to Do a Dog DNA Test
This is how to test your pup's DNA:
● Place an order for a kit.
● Get the kit.
● Do a cheek swab or get a saliva sample from your dog.
● Send the sample back to the company for analysis.
That's it.
You will typically get results within a few weeks and can begin discovering new insights about your pup!
Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate will the dog DNA test be?
Dog DNA tests are accurate - mostly, but their accuracy can vary depending on the company's database and the specific breed makeup of the dog. Most reputable companies claim an accuracy rate of around 80-90% for breed identification.
Can a DNA test reveal health issues in my dog?
Yes, some companies offer DNA tests designed to look for genetic health conditions and potential risks common with certain breeds. These tests are commonly more expensive than the basic breed identification tests.
How long will it take to get test results?
Most companies give results within 2-4 weeks after getting your dog’s DNA sample. Some may offer you faster processing options for an additional fee.