STORY FORMAT: Digital/Print Article WORD COUNT: 673 WRITTEN BY: Rebecca Guldberg How DNA Testing Your Dog May Help Them Lead a Happier, Healthier Life In the age of technological advancements, DNA testing has become a fascinating tool not just for humans, but for our canine companions as well. Dr. Kelly Cairns, Vice President of Medical Excellence and Education for the 400+ hospitals in the Thrive Pet Healthcare family, sheds light on the reasons behind this growing trend and the myriads of benefits it can bring to dog owners. Understanding Your Dog's Breed and Behavior One of the primary reasons dog owners opt for DNA testing is to uncover the breed makeup of their beloved pets. Dr. Cairns explains, "People often want to have their dog DNA tested either to identify the breed makeup of their dog or to determine if their dog has any genetic predisposition to different illnesses." Knowing the breed composition can provide valuable insights into a dog's temperament, energy levels, and exercise needs, making it easier for owners to cater to their pets' specific requirements. For instance, Dr. Cairns shares her personal experience with her dog, Winston. "We were taking bets as a family about what Winston's breed makeup was going to be. As a veterinarian, I had some high table stakes in that. So I wasn't surprised by his top three breed composition. He looks like a Labrador. He sounds very much like a hound dog. He 'woos,' and he acts like a very sweet pit bull." Health Insights and Preventative Care Beyond understanding breed characteristics, DNA testing plays a crucial role in identifying potential health risks. Dr. Cairns highlights, "DNA testing is a powerful tool to give you a lot of information about your dog. These tests will screen your dog for genetic predispositions to certain diseases. Many DNA tests will also give you important information about other traits that might influence your dog's behaviors or physical needs." This knowledge allows veterinarians and pet owners to develop targeted plans for prevention, monitoring, and treatment, ultimately enhancing the quality of care and potentially extending the lifespan of the dog. How DNA Testing Works The process of obtaining a DNA sample from a dog is straightforward and non-invasive. Dr. Cairns describes, "Most DNA test kits contain a cotton swab and instructions for how you can use that swab to collect cells from the inside of your dog's cheek." Once the sample is collected, it is mailed to the testing company, which then analyzes the DNA and provides a detailed report. Diverse Testing Options The variety of DNA tests available ranges from basic breed identification to comprehensive health screenings and ancestry analysis. Dr. Cairns advises, "Dog owners can obtain DNA tests online, in some stores, as well as through their veterinarian. I would recommend that dog owners talk to their veterinarian to purchase the brand recommended by their veterinarian." The cost of these tests can vary significantly, typically ranging from $60 to $400, depending on the extent of the analysis and additional features offered. Personal Experience and Fun Discoveries For Dr. Cairns, DNA testing Winston revealed not only his breed mix but also some surprising insights that helped tailor his care. "There were some findings on Winston's DNA test which were surprising. So there were some behaviors that he was having that we were having a hard time identifying the cause for. The DNA testing did reveal some underlying traits and ancestry predispositions that allowed us to explain those behaviors and then custom tailor his environment and the support we provide him to be better suited for him. We've experienced, his anxiety has gone down, and he's just a more well-adjusted member of our household due to the actions we were able to take based upon the DNA results." The Lowdown on Dog DNA Testing DNA testing for dogs offers a fascinating glimpse into their genetic makeup, providing valuable insights that can enhance their care and well-being. Whether it's understanding breed characteristics, identifying health risks, or simply satisfying curiosity, DNA testing is a powerful tool that empowers dog owners to make informed decisions and may help foster a healthier, happier life for their furry friends.