The DNA test also exists for dogs: but is it really necessary to carry out ? For what purpose? Let’s find out together.
Pets are now an integral part of the family. And one of the effects of this cultural and social movement is the strong upward increase in the offer of accessories and services for our four-legged friends. One of the latest innovations is the DNA test for dogs . Let’s find out together when it is worth ordering one for our four-legged friends.
Dog DNA test: what it is for
Technology and scientific progress seem to have no more limits that can hinder growth, and our little four-legged friends also benefit from them.
Of course, the reader might have some doubts: a dog DNA test seems more than anything else designed to satisfy the curiosity of its human companion, in order to know the genetic heritage of his four-legged friend.
Or, at the most, to protect its interest, including its patrimonial interest; that is to verify that the purchased dog really has the characteristics (genetic ) exposed by the seller. Obviously we are referring to purebred dogs.
In short, what benefit could the dog derive from this test? This is not quite the case. Of course, the DNA test for dogs will reveal us which are the progenitor breeds of our four-legged friends; but this can help to identify the possible diseases to which the dog can be particularly predisposed.
How does it work
The dog DNA test is very simple to perform. First of all, it is necessary to contact a specialized center on the subject.
It is sufficient to collect a sample of the dog ‘s blood or saliva to obtain the result (although blood is recommended, which more guarantees that the quantity of biological material is sufficient).
However, before the test, the dog must fast and refrain from drinking. It is also necessary to keep it within reach of games and objects that it can bite, especially if there are other animals in the house that can have access to them, in order to avoid altered results.
At this point all that remains is to wait: the test results are usually available in 2/3 weeks, at low prices. There are tests designed specifically for mixed-breed dogs , for which, it goes without saying, it is more difficult to reconstruct the entire genetic heritage.
The margin of error is higher, not to mention that the number of dog breeds is very high, and not all of them may be present in the database of the center you are addressing. In any case, we can always ask our trusted veterinarian for a consultation to understand how useful the test can be.