In the years that I’ve been a pet sitter, I’ve seen many kinds of dogs, but there are always those dogs that look like it’s been sewn together like a quilt.  The head is from a Lab, and the legs are from a Bassett Hound.  Don’t laugh, I’ve seen a lab/basset mix and it was very cute!

My clients and I have had many discussions on what kind of dog they have.  As you may know, there is a Dog DNA Test that can be performed to find out where your mixed breed dog comes from.

Emma is one of my furry friends that stays with us.  Can you guess what she is?  After she did a DNA test, she found out that she was primarily a German Shepherd, next was Boxer and Bulldog!!  I guess I can see a little boxer??

Emma

How the DNA Tests Work

In 2004 there was a public research project that unlocked the sequencing of the canine genome.  They were trying to eliminate inherited canine diseases, but from that research, they  discovered that they can find out what breed your dog came from.

By using genetic “markers” known as SNP’s (single nucleotide polymorphisms) and micro satellites they were able to test hundreds of different DNA markers in over 100 purebred dogs to get a unique profile for each breed.  Using a cheek swab of skin cell DNA from your dog, they plug that into their  database of markers and by using algorithms, come up with the best match for your dog.  That’s it in a very teeny, tiny nutshell!

3 Reasons to take the Dog DNA Test

1.  To find out with a high degree of accuracy the closest match for your dog.  Usually stated by Primary Breed which has 50% or more of the matched markers for that particular breed.  The secondary breed(s) might have a 20% to 50% match to your dogs DNA, and a 3rd category might have a 10% to 20% match.  Each company has their own      variations and uses their own percentages.

2.   To determine dog behavior characteristics.  If your dog is always chasing after rats, you might find that they have some terrier in them.  Or your dog is always patrolling your back yard  and making sure it’s secure, he may have some German Shepherd in him.  It’s a useful tool to figure out a training and behavior plan for your dog.

3.  There are always those inherited dog diseases that come with certain dog breeds.  This   will best help you to manage their nutritional and exercise needs and live a longer, healthier life.

3 places to go to find out more information

1.  Wisdompanel.com by Mars Veterinary.  They are a division of the MARS corporation that make pet and consumer foods.  Yes, it’s the candy people.  Their test are the most comprehensive with about 170 breeds in their data base.  The cost is $79.99.

2.  Canine Hertitage.com a division of MMI Genomics Inc which provides identity and parentage verification services for the AKC, UKC (United Kennel Club) and the PKC (Professional Kennel Club), uses over 100 breeds in their tests.  In 2001, they participated in the most advanced genomic research in the world  which lead to the   sequencing of the canine genome.  Their price is $119.95

3.  BioPetVetLab.com. Their philosophy is that 92.5% of mixed breeds are covered by 62 breeds, which means that if your dog is outside their breed list, it won’t necessarily recognize them.  Their cost is around $59.95

All of these sites are very informative and tell you which breeds they test for and where to get their kits.

I hope this was helpful to you and although no test is 100% accurate, it sure is fun to find out what your patchwork quilt is make out of!

Chris L Wagner

Reflections of a Dog Lover and Mompreneur

http://waggyspettipsandtales.com