Pet DNA Testing: Learn from Genetics

Gina
- July 27, 2022

Human DNA testing is now quite common, particularly for verifying identity, testing for ethnicity, and for use in criminal investigations. DNA testing for pets is also possible, although not for determining who stole your favorite shoes. 👞👀 So, what can pet DNA testing tell us?

Breeds

DNA testing for purebred or mixed-breed pets will reveal the breeds they are descended from. Especially for adopted pets who may have been strayed in the past, your pet may have a far wider range of breeds than you realize!

Physical Traits

DNA testing might also reveal information about your pet’s physical characteristics. It can predict how big your puppies will be when they grow up, how much they’ll weigh, and whether or not they will shed a lot of fur. That’s quite impressive!

Health Risk

One of the main worries of pet parents is their pet’s physical condition. Regardless of whether or not they are in good health, their DNA may be able to reveal more about their health. Things like breed-specific illnesses that unexpectedly come with DNA, seizures, heart disease, etc.

Psychiatric Disorders

Can you believe it? Pet DNA testing can also reveal psychological issues. By investigating the genes that cause anxiety or obsessive-compulsive disorder, for example.

However, pet DNA testing still needs a lot more research and studies, it’s a working progress. Also, the results of your pet’s DNA test are not official clinical data. Just because their DNA says they’ll have this illness doesn’t completely mean that they will have it. Having health check ups regularly, eating balanced and complete diets, and exercising, will help your pet live a long and healthy life!

This article is reviewed by the veterinarian from Small Animal Teaching Hospital, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University (CUVET)

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