Dog DNA Tests: Why Your Mutt’s Makeup Matters
Discovering your mutt’s background is easier and less expensive than you think.
Testing the DNA Tests continued...
Here are the DNA tests Belzer used and their cost at the time he did the
- Cost: $79.99
- Tests dog’s DNA against 170 different breeds
- Findings: Made up of at least 50% Siberian Husky and 25% Border Collie
Heritage Breed Test
- Cost: $99.95
- Tests dog’s DNA against 105 different breeds
- Findings: Siberian Husky as a secondary breed (Canine Heritage only lists a
primary breed if the dog has a purebred parent), with German Shepherd in the
- Cost: $68
- Tests dog’s DNA against 62 different breeds
- Findings: Level 1 Siberian Husky, made up of at least 75%, level 4 German
Shepherd, made up of between 10% and 19%
“It was pretty easy,” says Belzer of the collection process. After he sent
the completed test kits back to each company, results came within two to four
weeks (Wisdom Panel was the quickest; both of the others took about a month).
DDC and Canine Heritage findings came in the mail, and Wisdom Panel’s results
Two of the three companies’ results validated Belzer’s hypothesis: that Girl
was a Siberian Husky/German Shepherd mix. Wisdom Panel, which tests against
more breeds than the other two, suggested Girl was part Border Collie. “That
was something I would have never considered,” says Belzer, who doesn’t question
the accuracy of the test. “The results were a little out of line with what the
other two found, but it’s certainly not a breed that I would rule out.”
All of the companies contain disclaimers that the test is for informational
purposes only, and most owners order dog DNA tests solely for the curiosity
factor. “It answers hypothetical questions and can validate your assumptions,”
Belzer says. “It’s also a great conversation piece at the dog park.”
Why Test Your Dog’s DNA?
Once predominant breeds are established, owners can take their results to
their veterinarian to discuss potential health issues associated with specific
breeds. “Boxers are prone to getting cancer, and Dobermans sometimes have
bleeding disorders similar to hemophiliacs,” says Bernadine Cruz, DVM,
associate veterinarian at California’s Laguna Hills Animal Hospital. Knowing
these potential risks ahead of time, and asking your veterinarian to keep an
eye out for them, can save lives.