What DNA Testing Can Reveal About Your Pet’s Heritage and Health

Many pet owners seek out purebred animals to fill important jobs, or simply because they like the known appearance, personality, and temperament of the breed. Owners of mixed breed animals, or those with mysterious genetics, can take advantage of pet DNA testing to learn more about a pet’s ancestry. This not only clarifies a pet’s behaviors, but can alert an owner to potential health concerns. 

Accuracy and Value

Pet DNA tests analyze numerous factors in animal DNA. While some tests can connect owners of pets from the same litter, general pet DNA tests are relied on for ancestral lineage and genetic predispositions that influence health and behavior. 

Genetic testing for pets can be incredibly valuable to owners seeking clues about their pet’s breed(s). Owners may be able to learn anticipated weight, fur type/length, coloring, eye color, and other physical character traits. 

Beyond the Fun Factor

Knowing exactly which breeds are involved in a pet’s genetic history is great for conversation at the park, but pet DNA testing can serve as a map in determining a course of action. Knowing the risk for certain genetic conditions can go a long way towards preserving a healthy baseline and setting up guardrails for future developments. 

The Role of DNA

Both dominant and recessive genes influence pet appearance and behavior. The environment plays a huge role in determining personality and behaviors, there are certain things that pets are simply born with. Inherited traits like maintaining a strong territory, hyperactivity, and loyalty seem to be dictated by their genes. Animals bred for specific tasks, like herding, are very much in tune with their ancestor’s behaviors. 

Identifying breed personality and skills can inform how pet owners provide for their pets. In this way, they can customize their approach to enriching their pet’s environment.

The More We Know

When we have as much information as possible about a pet’s heritage, we can better serve their health and lifestyle needs. The ability to make proactive decisions about breed-related conditions can improve a pet’s quality and length of life. The right information can help owners proactively prevent and detect tell-tale symptoms of potential breed-related health conditions. It’s important to remember that genetic risks may never become problematic. 

Pet Health DNA Analysis

Pet DNA testing can help owners understand their pet’s risk of the following:

• Skin conditions
• Ocular issues
• Problems metabolizing certain medications
• Predisposition to spinal abnormalities
• Bleeding disorders
• Urinary stones
• Nervous system conditions

How It Works

Depending on the kit, you may either send in a cheek swab using provided materials or a blood sample (we can help you with this). Wait times for a full DNA report may range between a week and a couple months.

If you have questions about pet DNA testing or your pet’s results, our staff is always happy to assist you. Please call The Whole Pet Vet Hospital and Wellness Center at (408) 402-3071.