We begin this week’s “RUFF TAILS” featuring a beautiful German Shepherd named Arwen.
When I was a puppy my dad had a DNA test done to see my genetic make-up. These are my results.
Look at me now!!!!!! Did I surprise you with the “Corgi” HEE HEE.
Welcome to Doggie Dialogue
Many of our clients have asked us about DNA testing for their K9’s, whether they are accurate, costly, and can it really help with genetic predispositions.
We have been fortunate to have a few clients that have completed a full and reliable DNA test on their K9’s when they were puppies. Arwen, Buddy, and Molly were all puppies when their DNA tests were done. However, you can do your DNA test for your K9 at any age.
Genetic testing in pets have been used over the past 20 years and offers a wealth of information through the genetic code/DNA containing cells of your dog. This valuable information informs you about your dog’s genetic make-up.
When your K9 is a mixed breed, the genetic test can identify the breeds that contribute to the “mix”.
The DNA results can also allow you to see what “conditions” those breeds are predisposed to. Whether it is health predispositions, temperament, energy levels, and/or size. Knowing the breed or breed mix can help you as an owner to be more accurate in the preventive care that maybe needed.
To run the test our clients rubbed a small sterile nylon brush (that comes in the kit) and swapped the inside cheek to collect the cells. The sample is then submitted to the lab for a DNA analysis.
At the lab they run many tests and our clients received a complete profile of their K9 and their genetic breakdown.
If you would like to have this completed with your own K9, our clients recommend DNA My Dog, which is a Canadian company with proven, accurate results, and cost effective. Here is an example of what you can expect.
