 Over the past several years, canine genetic tests have become commercially available and increasingly popular. There are many options on the market, all promising a variety of results and test types mostly centered on determining a mixed breed dog's likely breed background. While knowing what hodgepodge of breeds are in your pup's background is interesting (and sometimes hilarious!), some of these genetic tests can take the information a step further and identify important health conditions your pup may be carrying or predisposed to. We recommend the Royal Canin Genetic Health Analysis for this reason. In addition to using your dog's DNA to determine what breed(s) they are by comparing to genetic information for more than 250 different breeds, this test also tests for more than 130 genetic mutation and disease markers. These tests have given us so much more information our veterinarians can use to institute even more preventative health care measures to help them lead long, happy lives. While guessing the breed background is fun, the genetic health testing provides us solid medical information. We are now regularly recommending these tests for many pets, even purebred animals. For instance, we have recommended the test to the following patients:
– Any new sight hound/herding dog puppies or suspected mixes (e.g. Australian shepherds and collies) to check for the MDR-1 (multi-drug resistant gene) gene that may cause the patient to be intolerant to common medications like heartworm preventatives. -King Charles Cavalier puppies: to check for the presence of the dilated cardiomyopathy gene -Corgi and German shepherd puppies: to check for the presence of the degenerative myelopathy gene -Any pet owner interested in learning more about their pet’s background and genetic health predispositions If you’re interested in testing your pooch, schedule your pet's appointment here for a quick blood draw. Within 2-3 weeks, you’ll receive a detailed, comprehensive report analyzing your pet’s lineage and the results of their genetic disease testing!
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