The modern DNA testing kits for dogs are designed to allow dog owners to collect samples from their dogs at home conveniently, mail the sample to a lab for analysis, and obtain the findings in a timely manner. However, DNA tests are no longer simply for determining what breeds your dog is mixed with; they can also assist you in learning more about your dog's health. Let's have a peek at the DNA kits available today.

How Does It Work?

It's quite straightforward really, very similar to human DNA testing. Most dog DNA kits include a swab that should be inserted into the dog's mouth and rubbed on the inside cheek for a few seconds. For dogs who are used to being handled, this procedure is quick and painless. After that, the swab is wrapped in a sterile container and mailed back to the DNA testing company (usually in a self-addressed and postage paid envelope). The sample will be evaluated by scientists at the lab, and the results will be returned or emailed to you within a few weeks.

Reasons to Test:

Many people buy an at-home dog DNA test to find out what breeds are in the genetic makeup of their unique pup. But even if you have a purebred dog, there are several beneficial reasons to still get a DNA kit.

Predict your dog's adult size.

If you've recently adopted a mixed-breed puppy, DNA tests can help you plan for her development by estimating the height and weight your dog will be when she reaches adulthood. Knowing what breeds your dog is mixed with allows you to learn about their common behaviors, exercise needs, and other characteristics, which can help minimize conflict between dogs and their owners and allow owners to be more prepared with enrichment activities and training as the dog grows older.

Health problems caused by a genetic predisposition.

DNA testing for dogs enables you to discover more about inherited health conditions that your dog is more likely to develop over the course of her life. Don't be alarmed if health risks resurface. Although a DNA test cannot guarantee that a dog will develop any of these diseases, knowing that your dog is predisposed to certain health concerns can help you be prepared and proactive with preventive measures and early screening. Your veterinarian will be able to keep a closer eye on your dog for these conditions over time and do further tests as needed. A key reason to DNA test your dog, even if she's a purebred, is to discover more about her predisposition to specific medical disorders.

Reactions and sensitivities.

DNA tests can also be used to see whether your dog has any drug sensitivities or, in certain situations, allergies. The information obtained from the health elements of DNA testing can be discussed with your dog's doctor and entered into his or her medical file.

Connecting the dots.

Finding dogs who are related to your dog or who have a similar DNA mix is a pleasant and surprise part of DNA testing, especially if your dog is a rescue and you don't know much about her origin. Some dog DNA testing firms will notify you whenever they process a DNA sample from a dog that is related to or has a similar mix to your dog, and they will give you the option to contact the other dog's owners via their website or a photo of that dog. Not only will you enjoy looking at the images, but you'll also be able to share information with other dog owners and learn more about health and behavioral issues that may run in your dog's family. Knowing your dog's probable health issues can go a long way toward making sure she is well cared for throughout her life.

Science contribution.

If you choose to DNA test your dog, not only will you discover more about your dog, but the DNA testing company's scientists will be able to use your dog's information to improve their research into canine genetics. This will allow scientists to understand more about health disorders and how they are passed down, as well as why certain breeds are more susceptible to them. If you agree to let geneticists use your dog's data, it will be anonymized so that you and your dog stay anonymous, and your dog's DNA information will not be traceable back to her.

Breed-specific issues discovery.

Unfortunately, discriminatory prejudice against specific dog breeds still exists. Breed Specific Legislation (BSL) allows cities and other municipalities to limit or prohibit particular dog breeds, as well as dogs mixed with certain breeds, from residing in their jurisdiction. BSL is often employed against dogs that are not of a specific breed but have physical features of one. A DNA test to verify a dog is not one of the targeted breeds could be useful in this scenario; however, a DNA test to prove a dog is one of the targeted breeds could be problematic. Furthermore, many businesses may question what type of dog you have if you are buying a new home insurance policy, and some house insurance providers discriminate against particular dog breeds. If your dog has had DNA tested, you may be requested to reveal the breed, which may affect your ability to purchase an insurance from some companies.

Looking ahead.

Some types of DNA collection can even supply the material required to clone your dog in the future if you so desire. A cloned dog is a genetic twin of your dog who shares fundamental characteristics but retains his own personality.

There's more than meets the eye

On the lighter side of DNA testing, many dog owners enjoy guessing which breeds their dog is mixed with based on behavior, physical appearance, and personality traits. Most dog enthusiasts believe they can guess breeds very well, but this isn't always the case. When veterinarians, breeders, and dog trainers, all of whom would be considered dog experts, looked at images of dogs, the most prominent breed was only accurately recognized 27% of the time, according to a study done by the University of Florida's College of Veterinary Medicine. Only DNA tests can determine which breeds a dog is mixed with. At-home kits have become increasingly popular among dog owners as DNA testing has progressed beyond the basic breed queries. Perhaps now is the time to give one a shot.

Options for your furry friend DNA testing

We have compiled several top options in the market for you to compare, based breed analysis, health risks screening, cloning, at-home testing vs. veterinarian service, related dog connector, and cost.