What can a DNA test help you find out?
First of all, it can create a breed profile, describing the breeds found in your pet, in case it is a mixed breed. That can help you a lot in getting a better understanding of your pet and his behavior, in order to solve some troubling issues. With such a test, you can even find what health risks your dog has or the breed traits.
Considering that anyone can take a dog DNA test at home with no blood or pain involved, this has to be the easiest way to solve many problems your dog cannot warn you about. You can then share the results with your vet so that your beloved dog can get the best care available.
Just like in humans, a dog DNA test can be used to confirm or rule out the parentage of any dog. Of course, the results have to be compared to the ones of known possible parents. Confirming the parents' identity is not a new feature of the DNA test, but finding out your mixed-breed's ancestry is quite a giant step forward in this industry.
Will the DNA test cause any discomfort?
Gathering DNA samples usually does not require any type of invasive procedures, so your dog will be pleased to find out that everything is pain free. The material for a dog DNA test can be procured with ease from the inside of the dog's cheek, by swabbing it. After procuring the sample, all you have to do is to send it to a lab and, in a matter of a few weeks, you will have all the answers you were looking for.
Is it really accurate?
Anyone should be aware of the fact that such a test is not 100% accurate, as the process is still new and there are still many things to be done to improve its quality. Still, the tests results are a great tool that will inform you about any afflictions that the breed or breeds detected in your dog are predisposed to; so you can take active measures in order to insure the well being and health of your canine friend.
Another great thing is that you can find anything that is important about the unique personality traits of your dog. That really can help you a lot in understanding it, knowing what it likes or dislikes or what makes it sad or happy. All these things can really help you improve your relationship you have with your pet.
Even if it is not 100% accurate, a dog DNA test can have positive effects, especially for your pet. The genetic health concerns and the predisposition to some diseases should convince you to try this test on your dog, if you really care about it. It is relatively inexpensive and recommended if you want to get to know your dog better.
