DNA test kits first appeared in pet shops about 10 years ago. At that time, people didn’t understand the practical value and benefits of using the product. Nowadays, the situation is changing greatly. More and more people want to know everything about their canine friends. And this is something that a DNA test can help you with. Let’s dig a bit deeper and shed some light on the practical benefits of using dog DNA tests. So why should you purchase a dog DNA test kit for your furry friend?
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#1 — Breed and Trait Information
Dog owners are generally most delighted to learn what breeds make up their newly acquired dog. DNA test results show your dog’s breed mix by percentage, based on a library of 250-350 distinct dog breeds. You may learn more about each breed your dog receives, including temperament, looks, history, amusing facts, and related breed information. You may also learn about your dog’s lineage and “family” tree, which includes the breeds of their parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents. Even for purebred dogs, this might reveal how far back their pedigree extends.
Other noteworthy breed information available with some kits includes wolfiness (ancient genetic features), maternal line (determining which areas the mother’s heritage can be traced back to), genetic age, and trait data. This might include coat color and length, eye color, body size, shedding, genetic diversity (inbreeding), and even altitude tolerance!
#2 — Health and Genetic Risks
If you want to learn more about your dog’s hereditary health concerns, consider purchasing a health test kit. These health products may test for over 150 hereditary disorders that your dog may be “at risk” for or “carrier” of based on their breed mix. It may identify disorders like glaucoma and Von Willebrand disease, as well as breed-specific problems like Muscular Dystrophy in Golden Retrievers. You may also determine if your dog has the MDR1 gene, or multi-drug resistance gene, which may cause serious adverse responses to some popular medications.
If your dog tests positive for any of these illnesses or mutations, you may take more proactive steps as an owner. As your dog matures, you’ll be more aware of signs to watch for. Do not wait for the symptoms — go ahead and consult with your veterinarian for more complete treatment.
#3 — Weight and Nutritional Recommendations
DNA testing might also provide useful information regarding your dog’s weight. Results can forecast your dog’s mature weight, which is particularly useful when evaluating your puppy. You may also obtain an optimal weight range suggestion. This data will give you an idea of how much your dog should weigh to be healthy. Some DNA testing provides nutritional information depending on your dog’s size and breed mix. Nutrients and minerals may be recommended to aid digestion, joints, skin, and coat. This may help you, together with your veterinarian, choose the best diet and supplements for your dog!
#4 — Find Your Dog’s Relatives
How exciting would it be to find long-lost siblings of your dog? Just a simple test allows you to connect with other canines who are related to your puppy based on the proportion of DNA they share! This is a fantastic opportunity for an amazing reunion and making your canine family grow.
#5 — Research Contributions
Okay, so this is not something you receive via a DNA test but something you can provide. When you send in your dog’s DNA, you are also helping to some incredible veterinary genetic research projects. This study helps veterinarians better understand canine obesity, illnesses, behavioral difficulties, aging, and preventative treatment. And as time goes on, additional features and outcomes may become accessible to you!
Final Say!
Many of us would like to learn about our own family histories, ethnicities, and medical predispositions, but what about our dogs? With so numerous mystery mutts from rescues, it’s no surprise that dog DNA testing has become so popular! Dog DNA tests are now a must-have present for pet owners, and breed reveals and guessing games have grown extremely popular on social media. Beyond your dog’s breed, these genetic test kits might provide a wealth of other information. Now you know what you can learn about your dog from a DNA test.
