Is It Worth Getting Your Dog's DNA Tested?
PETE DECKER / SEPTEMBER 10, 2019 / DOGS
This is a highly debatable topic since there are groups that believe in the efficiency of DNA tests and then there are the non-believers who consider them to be of no use. If it comes to you, what will you do?
In times, when inherited disorders are abounding and there is a new mutation happening every couple of years, getting a DNA test kit at home is probably your best solution. However, we will list out the pros and the cons for you to find out whether you should invest in DNA tests or not.
Pros VS Cons
The Pros of DNA testing
Knowing your dog's DNA can be helpful in more ways than one.
- Choose the best
When you know your dog's DNA, you will be able to assess what and how much it needs for complete nutrition. It will be easier to meet his dietary needs and also the level of activity he needs. - Anticipate behavioral trends
Testing your dog's DNA can also help to study and accept your dog's individual characteristics and the kind of temperament that you could expect. - Knowing health issues in advance
This is by far the most important factor; having a clear understanding of potential health problems. Some breeds are prone to genetic problems that could be otherwise hard to detect. Once you know, you could start working on preventive measures.
The Cons of DNA testing
While it is becoming a trend to test your dog's DNA, it does have its share of cons.
- It will not work for mixed breeds
Most dogs are mixed breeds in the U.S. and all across the globe. People are not sure of their ancestral lines. That is primarily why DNA tests will not stand a chance to detect the differences. - Test results could be misleading
DNA test results could be misleading and could make you believe that your dog is suffering from a serious physical disorder. Not all the test results are accurate. - Quite expensive
Yes, it is true that DNA test kits are expensive and so is DNA testing at the lab. If there is no real threat to your dog via his or her line of ancestry then there is nothing much to worry about.
Final Thoughts – The Verdict
It is clear that the pros far outweigh the cons. The kit is expensive, yes but the amount of money that would otherwise be spent in doctor visits, repeated testing and so on and so forth can all be instantly avoided by taking the test. Moreover, once your test results arrive, getting it checked by a veterinarian could definitely help you to understand the reports and respond to your dog more gently. It is not compulsory to get the DNA testing done but what is quintessential is to keep an eye out for potential genetic disorders.