Wondering if you should DNA test your dog? Keep reading to find out what interesting facts you could learn about your best friend!
1. What Breed He is
Your dog’s DNA will be analyzed and the customized algorithm will examine millions of possible breed combinations. A score is then generated based on how well it matches your dog’s data, and you will get a detailed report of the percentage of each breed your dog is made up of and where these breeds feature on his family tree!
This is also useful if you have purchased a purebred dog and want to confirm your pupper matches his papers.
2. Where His Ancestors Came From
A dog DNA test will trace your dog’s ancestry back to where dogs and humans first became friends. Each different ancient group – or haplogroup – tells a different story of creation, migration, struggle and ultimately survival and has a huge influence on the character and traits you see in him today. You will find out where in the world your pup’s ancestors originated from and what they may have been used for – giving you great insights into your dog’s likely strengths and suitability for various roles.
3. His Breed Family
There are over 250 unique dog breeds. And while we know all dogs are related, some are more closely related than others. You will learn how closely related your dog is to other similar breeds in his breed family and will answer any questions you may have about your doggo’s traits and behaviors!
4. His Genetically Predicted Size
Curious to know how big your pup will grow? One of the main questions people ask when adopting a mixed-breed puppy is, “How big will my puppy grow up to be?” To help answer this question the Embark Breed DNA Kit has developed a proprietary algorithm that uses the breeds identified on each chromosome to predict the likely size range a puppy will develop into when fully mature.
This prediction is designed to estimate the weight range at an ideal Body Condition Score and help you ensure you customize your pup’s nutrition to help him reach his optimal weight.
5. Whether He Has Drug Sensitivities
MDR1 or Multi-drug Resistance 1 is a genetic mutation found in many of the herding breeds, some sighthound breeds, and many mixed dogs.
This mutation can have a significant impact on drug sensitivity. The MDR1 gene is responsible for the production of a protein called P-glycoprotein.
The P-glycoprotein molecule is a drug transport pump that plays an important role in limiting drug absorption and distribution (particularly to the brain) and enhancing the excretion/elimination of many drugs used in dogs.
As a result, dogs with the MDR1-mutation may have severe adverse reactions to some common drugs, so it is important to test your dog and share your results with your veterinarian so they can provide your dog with for the best possible care.
6. If He is Prone to Altitude Sickness
The Embark Dog DNA Test will tell you if your dog has the Altitude Adaptation (EPAS1) gene. This mutation causes dogs to be especially tolerant of low oxygen environments (hypoxia).
Dogs with at least one A allele are less susceptible to “altitude sickness.” This mutation was originally identified in breeds from high altitude areas such as the Tibetan Mastiff and is handy to know if you’re planning to take your pup hiking!
7. If He Has Relatives You Haven’t Met Yet
This one is unique to Embark – if you use their DNA test you will be able to find your dog’s relatives – from close to distant, by matching your dog with others in their DNA database and offering you the ability to connect directly with them.
8. How Much He Will Shed
Your dog’s coat type and how much he will shed are all determined by genetics! How much your pup will shed is determined by the MC5R gene, and mutation affects shedding propensity.
Dogs with the ancestral C allele, like many Labradors and German Shepherd Dogs, are heavy or seasonal shedders, while those with one or more T allele, including many Boxers, Shih Tzus and Chihuahuas, tend to be low shedders.
Do you have a Bernedoodle, Cavapoo or Goldendoodle and want to make sure they are low-shedders? A doggy DNA test is perfect for you!
9. What His True Colour Is
A number of genetic loci are known to affect coat color in dogs, and they all interact. In some cases, other genetic effects may also influence color and pattern.
There are 5 different genes that have a big impact on coat colour – the E, K, A, D and B locus in addition to various modifiers which create effects like the Saddle Tan pattern that is characteristic of breeds like the Corgi, Beagle, and German Shepherd.
Are you thinking of breeding your dog and curious to see what colour the puppies may be? A dog DNA test will give you great insights!
10. If He Has Genetic Diseases
Extend your dog’s healthspan by testing for 170+ genetic diseases that occur later in life including glaucoma, degenerative myelopathy, and dilated cardiomyopathy, three of the most common adult-onset diseases in dogs. Knowing as early as possible means starting treatment early too.
Get $50 off the Embark Breed + Health Dog DNA Test today!
Read next: Our Review on the Best Dog DNA Tests in 2019