How Dog DNA Tests Can Improve the Lives of Our Pets
Muttly Mysteries: How Dog DNA Tests Can Improve the Lives of Our Pets
If you own a mixed breed pup, you know that small talk at the dog park inevitably leads to breed speculation– everyone offering their two cents. Maybe you’re the type to stick to your best, well-researched theory– “we’re convinced she’s a swedish vallhund-polish lowland sheepdog mix…” or maybe you are content to shrug your shoulders because “who knows, he’s just a lovable mutt!”
April 25th is National DNA Day— honoring the discovery of the double helix in 1953– so we’re celebrating by taking a closer look at canine genetics and how they may help us improve the lives of our pets. Deciphering your pup’s origin story is a fun and interesting way to understand their behavior, their needs, and their health. Even if your dog looks like a half-and-half cross between a miniature pinscher and a Siberian husky, she might have parents or grandparents who’s characteristics aren’t visible, but underlying. These hidden breeds can be determined by a Dog DNA tests like Embark or Wisdom Panel, which offer pet owners insight into breed make-up and disease markers. Additionally, they use the information gathered from consumers to build genetic databases that contribute to veterinary medicine and human medicine too! If you want to know more about your pet’s past and gain a glimpse of their possible future, a DNA test might be for you. Let’s take a look at how test results can lead to healthier, happier lives for our best friends.
Probably the most exciting component of a DNA test, knowing the breeds that make up your mystery dog can explain aspects of his personality, and help you make decisions that will maximize his fulfillment. The most common breeds that pop up on DNA results are German Shepherds, Bully breeds, Labs, Chow Chows, Chihuahuas, and Boxers, but the top tests can identify hundreds of breeds. Knowing the temperaments, traits, and health concerns that are unique to each breed found in your dog’s ancestry can help you make sense of their quirks and brainstorm solutions to meet their instinctive needs. Maybe you’ve always wondered why your Pomeranian mix bosses your Labradors in and out of rooms? Finding out that she has an Australian Cattle Dog hiding just under her fluffy coat may help you adjust her playtime so that her surprise herding instincts are fulfilled in a more peaceful manner.
An added benefit to DNA testing– and a great reason to spend $90 – $189 to satisfy your curiosity– are the potential health conditions the results can identify. It’s important to note that while the DNA tests can illuminate possible health conditions, they cannot diagnose or accurately predict disease. Research is ongoing and there are several super interesting organizations working to create a more robust and accurate database, so we may see improvements in this area soon. Regardless of the imperfections, the results may help us anticipate possible developments and take precautions that will improve quality of life.
In celebration of National DNA Day, which raises awareness for the amazing potential behind genetic research, Embark is offering $30 off their services, so if you’ve always wondered what wonderful mix concocted your perfect pup, now might be a great time to investigate!
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