{"id":3282,"date":"2023-12-01T15:38:33","date_gmt":"2023-12-01T15:38:33","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.petbutler.com\/?p=3282"},"modified":"2025-04-21T14:16:48","modified_gmt":"2025-04-21T18:16:48","slug":"dog-dna-testing","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.petbutler.com\/dog-dna-testing\/","title":{"rendered":"Dog DNA Testing"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"How to Do a Dog DNA Test in 5 Minutes\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/1BddnOs1EJM?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe><\/p>\n<h2>From Ancestry to Health Insights<\/h2>\n<p>Utilizing only a tiny fraction of your dog\u2019s DNA, emerging technology can potentially aid pet owners, veterinarians, and breeders in multiple ways. These advancements enable the determination of ancestry, uncover genetic predispositions for various <a href=\"https:\/\/www.petbutler.com\/blog-most-common-dog-diseases\/\">diseases<\/a> and reveal traits like muzzle length and ball-retrieving ability. Additionally, this innovative approach can shed light on the balance of bacteria in your pet\u2019s mouth and digestive system and their ability to metabolize specific drugs.<\/p>\n<h2>Understanding Genes and Their Impact<\/h2>\n<p>Think of your genes as DNA stretches that unfold the story of your pet\u2019s health, heritage, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.petbutler.com\/blog-4-dog-behavioral-issues-and-how-to-correct-them\/\">behavior<\/a>, and appearance. In the 1990s, lab testing of blood samples facilitated a breakthrough in detecting genetic markers related to several hereditary diseases, like copper toxicosis in Bedlington Terriers. In 2007, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wisdompanel.com\/\">Wisdom<\/a>, alongside <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pawprintgenetics.com\/\">Paw Print Genetics<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/embarkvet.com\/\">Embark<\/a>, tapped into the newly mapped complete canine genome, encompassing around 20,000 genes on 39 chromosomes! Leveraging this advancement, they began offering direct-to-consumer pet DNA testing using oral swabs, delivering results in just three weeks.<\/p>\n<p>Initially, the value of over-the-counter DNA test kits was limited. They focused on identifying shared DNA sequences among purebred dog breeds, analyzing cheek swab samples to gauge how closely a pet\u2019s DNA resembled known breeds. For those with mixed-breed dogs, these kits allowed them to trace their pets\u2019 ancestral line back to their great-grandparents and determine their area of origin. Owners were informed about their dog\u2019s likely <a href=\"https:\/\/www.petbutler.com\/blog-dog-breeds-original-jobs\/\">breed<\/a> makeup through a pie chart. This information proved helpful for understanding various traits, like a tendency to dig in terriers or a long, curly tail in Akitas.<\/p>\n<p>Pet owners could tailor their <a href=\"https:\/\/www.petbutler.com\/blog-training-options-dog\/\">training<\/a> and care approaches according to their pet\u2019s predominant breed. By understanding their dog\u2019s genetic predispositions, they could proactively manage breed-specific conditions, such as obesity in retrievers. Additionally, behavioral assessments and modification plans could incorporate insights derived from experience in training specific breeds and historically successful treatment protocols.<\/p>\n<p>Like the features offered by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.23andme.com\/\">23andMe<\/a> for humans, those who submitted their pet\u2019s DNA samples through biobanks could utilize the \u201cfind my pet\u2019s relatives\u201d feature. This allowed them to connect with other pet owners whose pets shared common DNA variants, fostering a sense of community among owners of genetically related animals.<\/p>\n<p>In the past decade, significant advancements have occurred in DNA testing, enabling data collection from multiple generations of more than 350 genetically unique breeds. Extensive biobanks now exist, containing information from thousands of pets. This research establishes connections between specific gene variants and hundreds of diseases and traits, showcasing the practicality of DNA testing that extends well beyond mere breed identification, ancestry exploration, and entertainment purposes.<\/p>\n<h2>The Function of Genes<\/h2>\n<p>Let\u2019s understand how genes function! Specific gene variants exhibit dominance or complete penetrance, meaning the presence of a specific version of a gene invariably results in the expression of a particular disease or characteristic. For instance, dogs with brown eyes; they possess a dominant brown eye allele that determines their eye color. However, they may also carry a version of the gene linked to blue eyes.<\/p>\n<p>On the other hand, some gene variants necessitate additional DNA sequences to be fully expressed. Various factors like breed, age, sex, nutrition, and lifestyle can influence the likelihood of certain diseases appearing in a pet. For example, in German Shepherds, degenerative myelopathy is associated with a genetic mutation. However, only some dogs with copies of this mutation eventually develop the disease, and the reasons for this remain to be fully understood.<\/p>\n<p>Interestingly, Yorkies with the same genetic variant rarely show signs of degenerative myelopathy. Genes and their expression are complex, and we are still learning how they affect <a href=\"https:\/\/www.petbutler.com\/blog-pet-parents-checklist-assess-pets-health-minutes\/\">health<\/a> and behavior.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.petbutler.com\/services\/?utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=DogDNA&amp;utm_id=PetServices\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-16230 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.petbutler.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/BLOG_CTA-GRAPHIC-1.jpg\" alt=\"Blog Cta Graphic (1)\" width=\"1500\" height=\"300\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.petbutler.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/BLOG_CTA-GRAPHIC-1.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.petbutler.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/BLOG_CTA-GRAPHIC-1-625x125.jpg 625w, https:\/\/www.petbutler.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/BLOG_CTA-GRAPHIC-1-825x165.jpg 825w, https:\/\/www.petbutler.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/BLOG_CTA-GRAPHIC-1-768x154.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h2>Genetic Markers and Disease Risk<\/h2>\n<p>As more genetic markers are identified, the veterinary community has increasingly embraced screening pets as part of their wellness approach. Embark offers a specialized panel that decodes your dog\u2019s DNA, revealing essential information about its breed and ancestral origins. The test can also screen for over 250 heritable diseases, including conditions like progressive retinal atrophy. When present in one or two copies, specific genetic variants raise the likelihood of passing the mutation to future litters or symptoms in your pet.<\/p>\n<p>For example, a specific mutation found on the MDR1 gene, common in herding breeds like the collie, pets carrying this mutation become more susceptible to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.petbutler.com\/blog-give-pet-medicine\/\">drugs<\/a> such as ivermectin, certain anesthetics, and Imodium. If your pet inherits two copies of this mutation, one from each parent, their sensitivity to these drugs becomes even more pronounced. Your veterinarian then will make necessary adjustments to treatments, avoiding any potential drug toxicity if your pet is identified as a carrier of the MDR1 variant or has mixed ancestry with breeds commonly affected by this mutation.<\/p>\n<h2>Vet Care Plans<\/h2>\n<p>Pet reports available to the owner and veterinarian include the presence or absence of genetic mutations, health risks associated with mutations, pet ancestry, 35+ traits related to your pet, including increased shedding or intolerance to altitude changes, level of inbreeding or genetic diversity, and even predicted adult weight. Trait analysis and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.petbutler.com\/blog-how-to-help-your-pet-lose-weight\/\">weight<\/a> predictions are 85-99% accurate, while the presence of genetic health markers found on DNA is 99.9% accurate. Embark also offers veterinary and owner consults to interpret data, identify symptoms, and suggest treatment for genetic diseases. With all this information at our fingertips, vets can create more personalized care programs and proactively manage pets\u2019 health.<\/p>\n<p>By providing a small sample of your dog\u2019s fresh feces, scientists can assess the well-being of your pet\u2019s gut microbiome. Any imbalances in the intestinal bacteria may lead to symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, and weakened immunity. Veterinarian recommendations are based on their specific requirements for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.petbutler.com\/blog-myths-vitamins-supplements-pets\/\">supplements<\/a>. They adjust their diet to address digestive issues, improve your pet\u2019s health, and extend their lifespan. <a href=\"https:\/\/basepaws.com\">Basepaws<\/a>, a new DNA testing company, offers oral biome DNA testing. Identifying the presence of certain <a href=\"https:\/\/www.petbutler.com\/blog-maintaining-pet-oral-health-benefits-anesthesia-free-dentistry\/\">oral bacteria<\/a> increases the probability of tooth resorption, halitosis, and periodontal disease. After test completion, owners receive a personalized report and treatment suggestions, including products endorsed by the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.vohc.org\/\">Veterinary Oral Health Council<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h2>Dog Breeding<\/h2>\n<p>Breeders use DNA testing as part of their tool kit to breed dogs clear of specific genomic variants or mutations and increase genetic diversity, ensuring healthier <a href=\"https:\/\/www.petbutler.com\/blog-what-to-know-when-getting-new-puppy\/\">puppies<\/a>. Selection of compatible breeding pairs lowers health risks for future litters and is crucial to a good breeding program.<\/p>\n<h2>Canine DNA and Human Health<\/h2>\n<p>Sequencing, or decoding the canine genome, has applications beyond the species; genetic mutations for certain diseases like Duchenne\u2019s muscular dystrophy are found on the same gene in dogs and humans. Studying the canine genome and finding commonalities with humans make dog DNA a perfect model for researching new treatments and testing in people. The more dogs tested, the more data scientists collect, and the more we learn about how diseases are inherited, identified, and progressed among all species.<\/p>\n<p><iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"A Vet&#039;s Thoughts on Dog DNA Testing\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/-GdomT92WXA?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe><\/p>\n\n\n<p>View our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/playlist?list=PL05dNeh7UsQO0PZkI4UEI28dQxP6ybFyQ\">Pet Wellness Videos<\/a> for more expert pet advice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><small>At Pet Butler, we want you and your pet to live your best and healthiest lives, which is why we offer <a href=\"\/\/www.petbutler.com\/services\/pet-waste-removal-service\/\u201d\">Pet Waste Removal<\/a> and <a href=\"\/\/www.petbutler.com\/services\/pet-care\/\u201d\">Pet Care services<\/a> year-round. We offer weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, and one-time clean-up services to meet your schedule and needs.<\/small><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>From Ancestry to Health Insights Utilizing only a tiny fraction of your dog\u2019s DNA, emerging technology can potentially aid pet owners, veterinarians, and breeders in multiple ways. These advancements enable the determination of ancestry, uncover genetic predispositions for various diseases and reveal traits like muzzle length and ball-retrieving ability. Additionally, this innovative approach can shed [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":5,"featured_media":15828,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"slim_seo":{"title":"Dog DNA Testing Explained: How Genetic Screening Reveals Breed, Health Risks, and Behavioral Traits - Pet Butler","description":"https:\/\/youtu.be\/1BddnOs1EJM From Ancestry to Health Insights Utilizing only a tiny fraction of your dog\u2019s DNA, emerging technology can potentially aid pet owne"},"footnotes":""},"categories":[13],"tags":[30,21,222,11,25],"class_list":["post-3282","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-pet-health","tag-behavior","tag-diseases","tag-dna","tag-health","tag-pet-wellness"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.petbutler.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3282","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.petbutler.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.petbutler.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.petbutler.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/5"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.petbutler.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3282"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.petbutler.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3282\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.petbutler.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/15828"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.petbutler.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3282"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.petbutler.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=3282"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.petbutler.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=3282"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}