Having a DNA test done for your dog can be beneficial to knowing what breeds they are mixed with, and can help you identify any potential health problems that they may be predisposed to. DNA tests are relatively inexpensive and can be conducted with either a home kit, which you send away to a lab, or by a veterinarian. In general, these tests are used on dogs who are known to be mixed breeds, often from animal shelters or rescue groups. However, if you have purchased a dog that was believed to be a pure breed, a DNA test can be done to either confirm or deny that belief.
Features
DNA tests for your dog range in price, as of 2009, from $65 to $125, including shipping, depending on the company that is conducting the test. The DNA test for your dog will be able to break down their complete genetic composition. The tests are very accurate, and can provide you with about 99 percent certainty on the various breeds your dog is a part of. The tests can be done in the comfort of your own home by doing a mouth swab on your dog, which is then sent off for testing. The results then arrive by mail to your home, eliminating the need for a trip to the vet.
Identification
DNA tests are able to give you and your family a complete breakdown of the breed composition of your dog. For instance, if you have a mixed-breed dog from a rescue shelter or other place, the DNA test will be able to provide you a complete list with percentages of the various breeds that make your dog who they are. Perhaps they are 50 percent black lab, 25 percent chow and 25 percent retriever. The DNA test will help you properly identify your dog's hereditary background.
Significance
DNA tests can be significant in helping identify the breeds that make your dog who they are, especially for medical reasons. For instance, some breeds are more prone to hip or joint problems, or even skin rashes or conditions. Knowing what breeds are associated with your pet will help you better look out for some of these potential issues with your dog's health. In addition, being able to tell your vet that they are "part X-breed" will help them quickly identify some problems that are more associated with specific breeds.
Time Frame
In general, DNA test results take about four to six weeks to receive back from the lab. In general, blood tests do not need to be done. However, some veterinary offices may use this method instead. There is no difference in determining the genetic composition of your dog by a mouth swab or blood test--they will both produce the same genetic test results.
Benefits
DNA tests can be especially beneficial if your dog is going to have puppies. This will allow you to better inform the new owners of the various breeds that the puppies are, as well as determine how big the dogs will eventually become. For instance, if your dog has some amount of a large breed dog in them, but they themselves are not very large, their puppies may inherit that gene and become large. Knowing these breeds will give you a distinct advantage in keeping new owners informed.
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