Benefits of knowing your dog’s DNA

How knowing what to expect can help…

With some dogs, one look at that pooch is going to divulge her breed. Others who carry the looks or traits of mixed breeds can be harder to pick. If you have a ‘Bitsa’ you’ll never be short of finding someone willing to guess and you may even have a good laugh at their suggestions. 

Checking your dog’s DNA is not just for those who would like to clarify which breeds make up their dog.  Such a test can help with identifying breed-specific diseases to which your pooch may be prone. Genetic testing can even be used as a way to design a health care plan.  Many diseases including cancers can be helped if detected early and knowing what to look out for or what to avoid is a plus.  Your vet will know which elements pose the greatest risk.

Most doggy DNA tests involve taking a simple swab inside the dog’s cheek.  The cells contained with the saliva get mailed to a laboratory.  For tests requiring a blood sample a veterinarian is required.  Both kinds are quite accurate but ideally you would choose a testing centre which can detect at least 100 breeds.

Did you get a pup with very little history? Maybe you want to check in on their genome history for the sake of temperament or physically whether they’re likely to grow into a long-haired beauty with the height of a Great Dane?

Because some dog breeds have a poor reaction to certain kinds of medications, DNA test results can also be helpful in assisting your vet with prescribing the most appropriate types of medications.

In addition, you can find or uncover things that your dog will find immensely satisfying.  Dogs just love being employed and knowing our dogs’ DNA can help you pinpoint the types of activities best suited to him or her.  Appropriate exercise plans as well as pastimes to fulfil their natural traits and inclinations can be designed.

Leah & Angela OMeara

Hound Dog Day Care (Specialists in Dog Minding & Dog Boarding, Pet Sitting Brisbane & Doggy Day Care Brisbane)