DNA test for Dog
DNA testing for dogs can be used to better manage matings, make more informed selection decisions, and discover the correct parentage when in doubt. Currently researchers are using DNA coding to identify specific genes linked to particular illnesses in hope of shutting off those genes before they become active.
How to Read and Understand Your Dog’s DNA Breed Results
By J.J. Yong
Since canine DNA sample collection is risk-free and painless, it is easily performed by dog owners before sending it to accredited laboratory for DNA breed analysis. If you are a Canine Heritage XL Breed test client, you will receive the DNA test results in form of Certificate of DNA Breed Analysis within 4-6 weeks period of time.
Photo: basc.org.uk
What do the results actually means on the certificate?
The results are categorized into three main categories (Primary, Secondary; and In the Mix) on the certificate.
Primary category - This category is intended to assist dog owners recognize when their pet’s genetic makeup contains a majority of a specific breed (i.e. 50% or greater). If your dog’s DNA profile has a strong match to one of our 100 validated breeds (based on US dog breed populations), then it is categorized as primary. Please take note that most mixed breed dogs will not usually have a breed in this category unless one or both of their parents are pedigree.
Secondary category - This particular category elucidates breeds that are easily recognizable within your dog. However, these breeds may have a strong influence on your pet genetic makeup, each breed listed makes up less than the majority of your dog’s DNA.
In the Mix category - It is the last category that identifies breeds that have the least amount of influence on your pet’s genetic makeup but they do still appear, at a very low and measurable amount, in your dog’s genetic makeup.
By referring to these three categories, you are able to identify your dog’s breed and you are able to understand your dog’s needs based on your pet’s temperament and behavior.
Ever wonder what your dog’s heritage is? If you are still curious about your dog’s breed, dog DNA breed test can be done in simple steps - firstly, swab the animal’s mouth and send it to a lab and lastly it will discover what breeds comprise the animal’s history. For more information about dog DNA testing as a breed identification tool, visit http://dogdnabasics.com
