What DNA tests can (and can’t) tell you about your pet

 
 
 
pet DNA tests

For owners of mixed-breed dogs, DNA tests are the best way to uncover the mystery of their dogs' breed background. But DNA tests aren’t just for mutts—or even just for dogs! Cats and dogs, purebred and mixed breed alike, have many secrets to unlock in their genes.

 

 

Here’s what genetic testing can reveal about your pet:

  • Breed composition. Non-pedigree pets no longer have to be simply labeled as mixed breed or supermutt. DNA tests identify their breed makeup by percentage, shedding light on their personality, appearance and health.
  • Family tree. Some test brands can identify relatives of your pet by comparing their DNA to other samples in the database.
  • Health risks. Knowing which diseases your pet is at risk of developing means you can proactively monitor for signs and potentially treat sooner if a disease does develop.
  • Drug sensitivity. If your pet has the mutation for multidrug sensitivity, which is especially common in herding dogs, staying away from certain medications can prevent serious medical complications.
  • Blood type (for cats only). In an emergency situation, knowing your cat’s blood type in advance may be invaluable information that can allow faster treatment.
  • Future size and weight. With the help of genetic clues, puppy and kitten owners no longer have to guess how big their little furballs will become.
  • Physical traits. Genes can explain exactly how your pet got their distinctive look.
  • Breeder information. Genetic diversity and carrier status of known inherited diseases are two important pieces of information to consider before choosing to breed a pet.

As much as can be gleaned from DNA alone, it is important to remember that genes can’t explain everything about your pet. Here are two main things genetic testing can’t tell you about: 

  • Current health status. Just because your pet is at risk of a disease doesn’t mean they currently have or will definitely get that disease. If you find out your pet is carrying a gene for a disease, consult your veterinarian before assuming the worst.
  • Personality and behavior. Going back to nature vs. nurture, there’s a whole lot of nurture that goes into your pet’s personality. While knowing your pet’s breed might give you some idea of how they’ll act, there can be a lot of behavior variation, even within breeds.
     

Learn more about the leading DNA test for pets, the Wisdom Panel. >>